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About Ateneo de Davao University

The Ateneo de Davao University is a Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit University known for its excellence and holistic education. As an Atenean School in Davao, Philippines, Ateneo de Davao University strives to educate and create a solid foundation for future leaders for Mindanao and beyond.

To educate students through excellent academic instruction, robust research and innovation, and vibrant community engagement and advocacy for social transformation. With education rooted in the formation of values that are based on Christian, Catholic, Ignatian, and Jesuit tradition. The Ateneo de Davao University produces discerning leaders and citizens distinguished by their character, competence, compassion, conscience, courage, cultural-rootedness, and commitment to community and the common good.

A Brief History of Ateneo de Davao University

Ateneo de Davao traces its roots to 1948, when American Jesuits led by Fr. Theodore Daigler, SJ took over St. Peter’s Parochial School. With missionary zeal, the Jesuits and Filipino scholastics grew the school from a basic education unit into a small Liberal Arts college by 1951, admitting women two years later. The College of Law followed in 1961, then the Graduate School in 1968 — postgraduate milestones that reflected a university-in-the-making well before the title became official. That formal recognition came in 1969, when AdDU earned its first PAASCU accreditation.

UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

Ateneo de Davao University is led by Rev. Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, who has served as University President since September 2023. A Jesuit priest, educator, and scholar, Fr. San Juan holds degrees in Mathematics, Development Management, Sacred Theology, and a doctorate in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University. His leadership spans academic formation, Ignatian spirituality, and organizational development across Mindanao and beyond. He also serves as President of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines.

UNIVERSITY SEAL

Every element of the Ateneo de Davao University seal carries meaning rooted in faith, place, and history. The shield honors Davao through the symbols of St. Peter and Our Lady, and the peaks of Mt. Apo. The lower panels bear the family arms of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. Above the shield, the IHS monogram of the Jesuits recalls the name and passion of Christ. The Latin motto, Fortes in Fide, “Strong in the Faith,” drawn from 1 Peter 5:9, names the conviction that has guided this university since its founding.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Ateneo de Davao University is governed by a Board of Trustees composed of Jesuit priests, civic leaders, legal professionals, educators, and advocates who bring a broad range of expertise to the service of the university’s mission. Together, they provide direction and oversight rooted in the values of Ignatian education: faith, justice, and excellence in service of the common good.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

Ateneo de Davao University is shaped by the men and women who lead its schools, colleges, offices, and formation programs. From central administration to basic education, each administrator carries the responsibility of translating the university’s mission into action, serving students, faculty, staff, and the wider community with integrity and purpose.

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