THE UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas paid tribute to associate professor and director of Public Affairs Office Giovanna Villarama-Fontanilla who died on Sunday.

In a Facebook post, UST said Fontanilla had been the “face and voice” of the university for three decades and had been one of its “best ambassadors.”

“The University of Santo Tomas is deeply saddened at the passing of one of our seasoned administrators, Assoc. Prof. Giovanna Villarama-Fontanilla, PhD, APR,” it said.

“Combined with her teaching stint in the College of Education prior to being an administrator, she served UST for a total of 41 years,” it added.

The university condoled with the family of Fontanilla.

UST said that Fontanilla will be remembered for her selfless service to the Thomasian community.

“We remember, with great appreciation and fondness, her happy memories with us as the mentor and visionary, Dr. Fontanilla, as the joyful leader and UST’s face on media, Director Fontanilla, and as the genuine and caring Giovanna V. Fontanilla,” UST said.