This item consists of two distinct, historically significant issues of The Sillimanian, the official student publication of Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Philippines. The first section, dated December 7, 1940, captures the vibrant academic, athletic, and political atmosphere of the university immediately before the onset of World War II in the Pacific. It documents regular student life, including a dual athletic meet with Iloilo High School , botany field trips , and the local municipal council candidacy of Student Council President Lorenzo Teves. Crucially, it highlights the early campus-led fundraising campaign to complete Hibbard Hall under the leadership of Nestorio B. Melocoton. The second section, dated June 21, 1947, represents a critical post-liberation alumni issue. It outlines President Arthur L. Carson’s forward-looking vision for rebuilding a war-damaged campus, including the integration of Guy Hall and Silliman Hall. The issue contains a comprehensive historical bulletin tracking the Hibbard Hall Campaign from its inception in 1929 through its post-war revival. Notably, it records that Hibbard Hall served as a free civilian hospital run by the US Army's Philippine Civil Affairs Unit (PCAU) immediately following liberation, demonstrating the institution's profound intersection with local public health and national recovery before returning to its educational mandate.
The Sillimanian (Year XXI, No. 26, December 7, 1940 & Vol. II, No. 22, June 21, 1947 Alumni Issue)