In a solemn ceremony held at the District Council of Santiago de CaliDr. Carlos Andrés Pérez Galindo, rector of the Santiago de Cali University since 2011, was awarded the Order of Independence Medal in the Commander’s Cross Degreein recognition of his outstanding career and his contributions to the educational and social development of the city-region.
This important award, granted through Resolution No. 334 of 2024, seeks to exalt people and institutions that have made significant contributions to the progress of Santiago de Caliconsidering themselves examples to follow for society. In the case of Dr. Pérez, his management has been decisive in the expansion and consolidation of the Santiago de Cali University as one of the most prestigious in the region.
His academic career supports this award. Biologist with an emphasis in genetics, a master’s degree in bioinformatics and a PhD in biotechnology, Dr. Pérez has been recognized on numerous occasions for his contributions to the field of science, including distinctions such as the National Prize for Science Teaching and the National Prize in Genetics and Biotechnology. During his tenure as rector, has promoted more than 100 academic programs and has strengthened research with 40 groups recognized by the Ministry of Scienceswhile modernizing the infrastructure of the university campus, raising quality and technology standards.
The medal was presented by Dr. Carlos Andrés Rueda, president of the Santiago de Cali District Council and USC graduate, who highlighted the rector’s management capacity and his transformative vision. In his words, he highlighted the positive impact of the University on the lives of thousands of young people, mentioning: “The Santiago is a dream machine. It has allowed many of us, who could not afford high tuition, to realize our aspirations. Today we celebrate not only the leadership of Dr. Galindo, but the efforts of an entire academic community that has led the Santiago de Cali University to become a benchmark in higher education in the country.”
Dr. Carlos Andrés Pérez Galindo, accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Carmenza Galindo, and his daughter, Carla Mariana Pérez, excitedly thanked the recognition. In his words, he highlighted the importance of teamwork and commitment to the educational transformation of the institution:
“This recognition is not only for me, but for the entire academic community of the Santiago de Cali University. Every teacher, every student and every collaborator has been part of this transformation. The university is not only an academic space, but an engine of social change that impacts thousands of families. My greatest satisfaction has been seeing how, year after year, we build a more solid, inclusive and quality educational project. “I deeply appreciate this honor that you have given me today, but even more so, I appreciate the trust and support of the entire Santiago community, which has been a fundamental part of this process,” said the rector.
The ceremony culminated with applause in recognition of the management of Dr. Pérez Galindo, a leader who has left a deep mark on higher education in Santiago de Cali and on the lives of thousands of students and professionals.
