In a heartwarming event on Monday, October 2, the UWC Adriatic community came together in the newly renovated Purnama House residence dayroom to extend a warm welcome to a cherished member of the College’s history. Little did Adiva Menon know, that the day held a special surprise for her.
Adiva, once part of the College’s inaugural support staff team, was invited to the inauguration, expecting an ordinary event. However, the day took an extraordinary turn as College students, leadership, and two special alumni joined in the celebration. To Adiva’s amazement, the College President unveiled a marble plaque dedicating the dayroom in her honour, acknowledging her unwavering dedication to the College and its students.
Adiva reminisced about her time at UWC Adriatic, sharing fond memories and anecdotes. She humorously recalled her husband questioning whether she was headed to work or off for a good time, emphasising the joy she found in her role.
The occasion was made possible through the generosity of David Halpert (UWCAD 1983-85) and Ristu Kusumaningrum, who donated Purnama House to the UWC Foundation and, consequently, to the College. Bartosz Ostenda (1992-94), also played a vital role by supporting the extensive renovation works that transformed the former Duino Park Hotel into the beautiful and functional College residence it is today.
Expressing his gratitude, Bartosz emphasised the significance of human connections in making a place special. He noted that many of his College friends still remember Adiva for her caring and thoughtful attitude toward all students, underlining the essence of the school’s community. As for David, he said,
