This document chronicles the history of Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Philippines, from its founding in 1901 to its Diamond Jubilee in 1976. The institution began as the Silliman Institute, established by the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions with a generous donation from American philanthropist Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman. It was officially opened on August 28, 1901, under the leadership of Rev. David Sutherland Hibbard, who later became its first president. The book summarizes the first half-century of the institution, covering its growth and development into a university. The core of the work, however, focuses on the post-1952 period and the administrations of three of its presidents: Dr. Leopoldo T. Ruiz (1953–1961), the first Filipino to hold the position; Dr. Cicero D. Calderon (1962–1971); and Dr. Quintin S. Doromal (1973–). The text details significant milestones, including the impact of the influential Fenn Survey of 1954–1955, which provided a blueprint for institutional excellence, as well as the challenges faced by the university community during the turbulent years of Martial Law in the 1970s. The work documents the university's transition and evolution, highlighting its commitment to Christian ideals, academic quality, and extensive community outreach in the Philippines.
Silliman University: 1901–1976