University of Santo Tomas Nurses Association International

WELCOME TO USTNAI

Message from the USTNAI President

It is my privilege to serve as the President of this incredible organization—a network of dedicated professionals and alumni who share a common bond, passion, and commitment to growth. Our organization thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and celebration of each other's successes. We encourage you to participate in events and engage with fellow alumni who share your drive and ambition. Your involvement not only strengthens our network but also contributes to the legacy we continue to build together. Thank you for your dedication to our shared vision.

Sallie M Poepsel, PhD, CRNA, APRN, FAANA

Message from the Executive Director

As Executive Director of the University of Santo Tomas Nurses Association International, I am honored to uphold the legacy of excellence, compassion, and service that defines Thomasians worldwide. Together, we empower, inspire, and elevate the global impact of UST nurses in every corner of the world. I hope this is what you wanted. Thank you for raising the bar of our website.

Mindy Ofiana, MSN, RN

NEWLY ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS

USTNAI Congratulates and Welcomes the
2025-2026 Newly Elected Board Members!

Senen Cabalfin (Class 1979)

Senen graduated as a member of Class 79 under Dean Maceda. She worked as a peri-operative charge nurse in Maimonides Medical Center, Robertwood University Hospital and Jersey City Med Center. She pivoted to healthcare business, and is currently the Owner/ Founder of Multi-Mobility Family of Companies: Mobility Home Care, Mobility and Motion, Mobility Housing, Mobility Construction and Mobility Memory Care.

Her experience extends far beyond her business success and her community involvement is truly exemplary, as demonstrated by her numerous initiatives and recognitions. In 2024, she received the Humanitarian Award from a non-profit professional organization in New Jersey, recognizing her team's exemplary community services during the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis. As a USTNAI Board Member candidate, she states, “I am proud to say my work not only elevates the nursing standards but also exemplifies the positive impact to the communities and network both locally and globally.”

Dr. Ma. Theresa Macalalad (Class 1989)

Dr. Maria Theresa Macalalad is a Professional Development Practitioner at the Veterans Affairs, New Jersey Health Care System. Dr. Macacalad holds a DNP from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, an Ed.D. from Capella University, an MSN from Seton Hall University, an MBA from Centenary College, and a BSN from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines.

Dr. Macalalad is board-certified in Adult Critical Care, Medical-Surgical, and Nursing Professional Development. She has been a podium and poster presenter in various professional nursing conferences. Known for her collaborative spirit, she has contributed to numerous projects that have made a lasting impact in her field of education and leadership. Her work is characterized by her ability to inspire teams, drive transformative changes, and foster an environment where creativity and growth flourish. As a Board Member candidate, she states, “I believe in creating a space where diverse perspectives are valued, and decisions are made with a focus on long-term impact and ethical responsibility.”

Dr. Rosalie Grantoza (Class 1989)

As the Director of Patient Care Services at Hackensack Meridian Health Old Bridge Medical Center, Dr. Rosalie Grantoza provides strategic direction and participates in the planning, and oversees the implementation, and evaluation of clinical operations to ensure optimum patient care delivery. Dr. Grantoza holds a DNP from University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, MSN from Seton Hall University, MBA from Centenary College, and BSN from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila Philippines.

Dr. Rosalie Grantoza is certified in Adult Critical Care from the American Association of Critical Care Nursing and Medical-Surgical Board Certified from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She is a distinguished nurse leader as a 2022 graduate of the American Organization of Nurse Leaders Nurse Director Fellowship Program and 2023 graduate of the HMH Nursing Executive CNO Leadership Fellowship Program. Dr. Grantoza has a proven ability to lead people of diverse backgrounds and motivate teams to achieve strategic goals and objectives relative to the provision of care. She recognizes her role as a servant and authentic leader and is deeply committed to the nursing profession.