As the Manado Independent School (MIS) community kicked off the second semester of the 2023-2024 academic year, a spirit of gratitude filled the air. On Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, the MIS Auditorium hosted a special Thanksgiving service that coincided with the school’s 20th anniversary celebration.
The theme, “Two Decades of God’s Goodness,” reflected MIS’s deep appreciation for God’s blessings throughout 2023. This celebration acknowledged the successful completion of the first semester, welcomed new students for the 2024-2025 academic year, and most importantly, paid tribute to the remarkable spirit of togetherness that has propelled MIS to educational achievements and awards in Indonesia over the past two decades.
The anniversary celebration saw a heartwarming ceremony where 14 dedicated employees received certificates and gold prizes in recognition of their 20 years of loyal, hardworking service to MIS. Alvian Waladow, one of the awardees, expressed his emotions: “Thank you to the MIS Management, especially the Director, Mr. Billy Kumolontang, MBA, and Mrs. Fionne Lengkong, M.Pd. This recognition for my 20 years of work means a lot to me. While I acknowledge there is always room for improvement, I’m grateful that MIS values our contributions and cares for our well-being. May God bless MIS forever!”
High School Principal Vijay Kollabathula, Ph.D., and High School teacher Prema Kollabathula, MA, MPh.Ed., also shared their gratitude. They view their service at MIS as “an honor to continue serving God in the MIS community.” They expressed their deep appreciation for the school’s role in not only providing them with valuable professional experiences but also in nurturing their two sons. Reflecting on the past 20 years, they highlighted the profound spiritual, mental, social, and physical growth they experienced as part of the MIS family. “Despite leaving our homeland and loved ones,” they stated, “MIS has become our second home.” Dr. Kollabathula extended his gratitude to the Director, Mr. Billy Kumolontang, MBA, and family for their trust and the opportunity to serve as teachers at MIS. Their appreciation also went to the administrators, fellow teachers, staff, parents, and, of course, the beloved MIS students.
