Lisset Laus-Velasco, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Laus Group of Companies, has been honored with the prestigious Scholastican Excellence Award in Professional Practice. The accolade was presented during St. Scholastica's Academy (SSA) Pampanga's Gawad HuSSAy at SSAysay event, a highlight of the school's 101st alumni homecoming held on February 7, 2026.
A Nostalgic Celebration of Achievement
The event, themed "SSA 101: Together as One," drew thousands of alumni, with Batch 2001 Silver Jubilarians leading the festivities. In her acceptance speech, Laus-Velasco expressed deep emotion, calling the award "bittersweet" due to the nostalgia of returning to her alma mater decades after graduating in the late 1990s. She emphasized the pride in being recognized for her professional efforts, which she attributes to her foundation at SSA Pampanga.
Reflections on School Values and Life Lessons
Laus-Velasco shared heartfelt insights on the enduring impact of her education. She noted that while school rules and teachings from sisters and teachers might have seemed restrictive during youth, they actually instilled core values that have guided her throughout life. Encouraging current Scholasticans, she advised them to embrace all learnings and enjoy their journey, highlighting the unpredictable and rewarding paths that lie ahead.
A Legacy of Excellence and Advocacy
This award adds to a growing list of honors for Laus-Velasco, who continues the legacy of her late father, Levy P. Laus, founder of the Laus Group of Companies. She has championed his advocacies for countryside development and strong corporate governance, working alongside her siblings to uphold these principles.
Previous Accolades and Recognition
In recent years, Laus-Velasco has garnered multiple distinctions that underscore her leadership and entrepreneurial prowess. In 2024, she was named Most Outstanding Kapampangan for business by the provincial government, an award celebrating individuals who excel in their fields and contribute to Pampanga's growth. Her international recognition includes being named one of the 10 leading women entrepreneurs from the Philippines by the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network in 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Further honors include being named Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Philippines in 2022 by Ernst & Young, and in 2021, she was the sole woman recipient of the Salute to Dealer award from Ford Motor Co. globally, representing the International Markets Group. These achievements highlight her significant impact in both local and global business arenas.
The Scholastican Excellence Award not only celebrates Laus-Velasco's professional success but also reinforces the strong bond between SSA Pampanga and its alumni, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence while cherishing their roots.
