The Academic Affairs cluster plays a pivotal role in ensuring the institution's commitment to academic excellence, program compliance, and overall educational integrity. It is responsible for overseeing curriculum development, faculty management, and instructional support to maintain high academic standards and enhance student learning experiences. This cluster ensures compliance with national regulatory requirements, including the issuance of Certificates of Program Compliance (COPC) and Institutional Recognition, which affirm the institution’s adherence to quality assurance measures and accreditation standards.
Additionally, it facilitates faculty recruitment, training, and professional development to cultivate a skilled and innovative teaching workforce. The development and distribution of instructional materials, such as modules and other academic resources, further reinforce the institution’s dedication to accessible and high-quality education. Through these essential functions, Academic Affairs strengthens the institution’s academic foundation and fosters a dynamic, student-centered learning environment.
Dr. Helmae E. Tapanan, LPT, is a distinguished academic leader, recognized for her extensive experience and profound commitment to educational excellence and research. With a Doctor of Education major in Instructional System and Resource Management from the University of San Jose-Recoletos (2019) and a Master of Arts in Education major in Mathematics from the University of the Philippines Cebu (2011), Dr. Tapanan possesses a robust academic foundation. Her Magna Cum Laude, Best in Mathematics, and Extra-curricular awards from La Salle University Ozamiz City of her Bachelor’s degree, underscore her dedication to both scholarly achievement and professional standards. Her recognition as the Most Outstanding Principal of the Year by International School Awards in Bangkok, Thailand in 2023 and given distinction as the Soft Skills Ambassador of the Philippines by Soft Skills A.H.A. USA, further attests to her exemplary leadership and administrative prowess.
Throughout her career, Dr. Tapanan has consistently championed excellent quality in education. As Principal of the University of San Jose-Recoletos Senior High School Department since 2019, she has overseen curriculum implementation and school operations, ensuring high standards. Her role as a TEI Curriculum Quality Audit (CQA) Specialist since 2017 demonstrates her expertise in evaluating and enhancing educational programs, a critical skill for maintaining and elevating tertiary education standards. Furthermore, her experience as a Faculty Researcher and Research Peer Reviewer for the Recoletos Multidisciplinary Research Journal- a Scopus-indexed Journal highlights her commitment to evidence-based practices and scholarly rigor, which are foundational to a thriving academic environment and students’ growth towards success. At present, Dr. Tapanan is the Vice President for Academic Affairs at City College of Cagayan de Oro, Philippines, a World University Ranking for Innovation (WURI) Top 56 and Times Higher Education Impact Ranking of 1001-1500 ranks.
Dr. Tapanan's dedication to academic advancement extends beyond her institutional roles. She has published 13 international and 2 Scopus-indexed research journals and has presented her findings at numerous national and international conferences, showcasing her active contribution to the academic discourse. Her involvement in developing assessment and learning modules, coupled with her work as a Language Evaluator in MTB-MLE, reflects her comprehensive understanding of pedagogical best practices. Having conducted diverse community and research projects in partnership with CHED, USAID, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, research grant by Meralco Foundation, Region VII Department of Education, LGU’s, consultant of the Set Forth Phillipines Foudnation, Dr. Tapanan brings a wealth of experience in fostering collaborative initiatives that can significantly benefit the academic and community engagement goals of education sectors in the country.
Office of Acadmic Affairs, Zone 2, Barangay Agusan, Cagayan de Oro, 9000, Philippines
vpaa.citycollege@gmail.com+63 927 7697 659