At Católica, women are an integral part of the daily life that sustains and transforms our academic and scientific community. On International Women’s Day, the University highlights the voices of different generations—from long-time employees to those just starting out—in a portrait that spans the institution’s various campuses and underscores the essential role women play in building our community.

At the headquarters in Lisbon, two distinct chapters of the same institutional history come together. After 45 years of dedicated service to the University, Filomena Gomes, a payroll specialist in the Human Resources Department, offers this advice to those just starting out: “May you contribute daily, with loyalty and commitment, to the success of our University through your cheerfulness and innovation.”

On the other side is Flávia Santos, an assistant at the Global Education Office of the Faculty of Humanities, who started her new position just three weeks ago. A former student of the University herself, she believes that each new generation brings new ways of thinking and a great capacity for adaptation. “I bring energy, a sense of responsibility, and the awareness that every role, regardless of its scope, contributes to the University’s collective impact,” she says, also emphasizing respect for the journey and dedication of those who paved the way before her.

At the Porto campus, the dialogue between generations is also evident. Rosa Lina Rocha, section head at the Office of Academic Services, has been with the institution for 46 years and offers a simple yet meaningful piece of advice: “Perform your duties with dedication and love, and everything will be easier and more fulfilling.” Newcomer Mariana Lima, a staff member in the Human Resources Department, believes that professional experience, combined with dynamism and sensitivity, can contribute to the University’s continued success.

At the Braga campus, the experience of Manuela Couto, who has worked in Academic Services for 41 years, underscores the value of closeness and team spirit: “Embrace Católica’s projects with all your heart and soul, and never forget to lend a hand to those who ask for help.” Damiana Ribeiro, who has been part of the Student Support Desk for nine months and was also a student at the institution, highlights the importance of intergenerational work: “When experience welcomes youth and youth respects experience, we all grow.”

At the Viseu campus, the dedication of Isabel Agostinho, who has served as a Library Administrative Officer for 37 years, underscores the importance of human values in building a strong institution: “To create a dynamic and proactive institution, we must first cultivate values and foster a sense of belonging.” For her part, Andreia Seco, who has been a Secretarial/Telephone Operator for 23 years, highlights the importance of adaptability and a willingness to learn as a way to strengthen the University’s organizational culture.

On this symbolic day, these employees also share messages addressed to all the women who make up Católica.

Filomena Gomes extends her gratitude to “all the women in our community” who, with joy, resilience, determination, and creativity, contribute daily to the University’s success. Flávia Santos, meanwhile, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of women’s work—often unassuming but essential—and hopes that “we may continue to support and inspire one another to grow; to pave the way for one another; and to contribute daily to a more diverse, strong, collaborative University that is prepared for the challenges of the future!”

At the Porto campus, Rosa Lina Rocha hopes that “our smiles will be a source of strength, confidence, and kindness for those we encounter in our daily lives,” while Mariana Lima thanks the women who teach, conduct research, learn, and collaborate at the University for inspiring and helping to drive the entire community forward.

At the Braga campus, Manuela Couto notes that at Católica “women are recognized for their dedication” and emphasizes that “here, we have a voice.” Damiana Ribeiro stresses the importance of continuing to blaze new trails: “Let us never allow age or gender to limit our dreams.”

Finally, in Viseu, Isabel Agostinho notes that “working women not only build careers, but also inspire dreams,” while Andreia Seco highlights the strength, resilience, and sensitivity of the women who help sustain and transform the academic community.

More than just individual journeys, these testimonials reflect a community where different generations come together and complement one another. Through their experience, innovation, dedication, and enthusiasm, the women of Católica continue to make a daily impact on the institution’s growth.

On this International Women’s Day, the messages they share with one another reflect a common sentiment: appreciation, inspiration, and the certainty that, together, they continue to build a more diverse, collaborative university that is prepared for the challenges of the future.

Happy Women's Day!