From the Editor’s Desk: A Resounding Success in Chicago 

The 32nd USTMAAA Grand Reunion in Chicago was nothing short of extraordinary. With record breaking attendance and a surge in participation from younger and second-generation graduates, the event marked a new chapter in our organization’s legacy. Thanks to the tireless leadership of Zita Yorro and her dedicated team, sponsorships and advertisements for the souvenir program exceeded all expectations—so much so that we published two volumes to accommodate the overwhelming support.  This translated into the most profitable reunion in recent years, reinforcing the Grand Reunion’s role as our primary fundraising campaign for the Foundation. 

One of our proudest achievements is the revitalization of the UST Hospital. Admissions and outpatient visits are on the rise, imaging services are being utilized more frequently, and the cardiac cath  facility is thriving. Most notably, the hospital now enjoys a surplus of internship applicants, allowing it to select only the most qualified candidates—a dramatic turnaround from previous years. See Fr. Julius Factora’s Email below in the News Section. 

This success fuels our enthusiasm and strengthens our case to benefactors, proving that our efforts truly make a difference. 

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce the 33rd Annual USTMAAA Grand Reunion, set for July 15–19, 2026, at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront Hotel in Burlingame, California. Registration details will soon be available at ustmaaamerica.org. Remember, our Grand Reunions are open to all Thomasians—not just Jubilarians—so gather your classmates and join us for another unforgettable celebration of unity, legacy, and joy. 

Warm Regards, 

Dionisio B. Yorro, Jr., MD, FACC Executive Director, USTMAAA 

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Sharing an email from a first-time attendee…
On Sun, Aug 17, 2025 at 5:19 AM Leslie Mendoza Temple <doctor_lester@yahoo.com> wrote:

Drs. Yorro,

I’ve added some classmates who didn’t attend the USTMAA reunion or weren’t on this distribution list for their knowledge. I’ll post this on the class of 1999 alumni FB page too. Hopefully they’ll attend the July gala in Northern CA in 2026.

The update on UST Hospital is fantastic news. The reunion was not a tired, repetitive, stuffy affair, but a celebration of friendship and a seriously great time. There was something different about this year’s event that was magical. I wasn’t expecting to have such a great time, honestly, I really did, and I was not a Jubilarian. It didn’t matter because I was adopted by the class of 2000 to make up what I missed last year. They were awesome.

Kudos on the growth of UST Hospital from what sounds like a period of struggle and low morale. It’s so difficult to be in healthcare these days- everywhere. 

I am impressed that the USTMAAA’s efforts have resulted in a dramatic rise in intern applications. All we alumni have to do is attend a fun gala, attend CME lectures, buy an ad in the book, and maybe chip in some additional donations. It’s not hard! The hard work is from the gala planners, and the really hard work comes from the “boots on the ground” physician, nursing and administrative leaders at UST Hospital. They are the real heroes.

Leslie Mendoza Temple, MD Class of 1999

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Response from the Executive Directors… On Sunday, August 17, 2025, at 08:57:30 AM CDT, Stella Evangelista <stellaevangelistamd@gmail.com> wrote:

Dear Leslie, 
It is rewarding to read your feedback about the recent USTMAAA Reunion / convention.  I'm glad you truly enjoyed the camaraderie and recognized the positive impact of the USTMAAA and Foundation initiatives. It is heartening to hear about the sense of belonging and fulfillment we have fostered through this annual Reunion and Convention.  

We are glad that our efforts to revitalize the UST Hospital have paid off.  We have not only revitalized the student body, but we also take credit in reviving the Clinical Division’s utilization (increased number of patients) through our financial support of the Indigency program at the USTH Clinical Division.  Our annual in-house medical surgical mission is also generating patients for the hospital.  

Thank you, Leslie, for your kind words and for spreading the message.

Best regards,
Tita Stella Stella Evangelista, MD Executive Director, USTMAAA Foundation 

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Dear Leslie,

Your kind words truly warmed our hearts. We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the Grand Reunion—and even more so to know it left a lasting impression. It has always been our goal to create an experience that’s not only fun and memorable, but also deeply meaningful for everyone involved.

Thank you for sharing your positive experience with your peers. Your enthusiasm is contagious, and we hope it inspires others to join us in future events and contribute to our shared mission.

The uplifting news from the University Hospital adds another layer of joy and purpose to our celebration. It’s gratifying to see how our collective efforts continue to make a difference.

With sincere appreciation, 

Tito Oni Yorro USTMAAA, Executive Director