CLIMBS Welcomes International Co-operative Management Expert, Ms. Cathy Statz

On May 24, 2024, CLIMBS was honored to host Ms. Cathy Statz, Outreach Specialist at the International Centre for Co-operative Management at St. Mary’s University and Co-coordinator of the National Farmers Union College Conference on Cooperatives. During her visit to the CLIMBS head office in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, Ms. Statz engaged with key leaders and explored the expansive grounds of the Co-operative College of the Philippines campus in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental.

Ms. Statz was warmly welcomed by Ms. Donna Dizon, Vice President for Administration and Corporate Planning of CLIMBS, who also serves as the Principal and CEO of the Co-operative College of the Philippines. Alongside Ms. Dizon, members of the top management team provided Ms. Statz with a comprehensive overview of CLIMBS’ current activities and initiatives. As a leading climate insurance provider in the Philippines, CLIMBS prides itself on innovative programs that support cooperative development and resilience. The Co-operative College, serving as the educational arm of CLIMBS, plays a crucial role in these efforts, and Ms. Statz received an in-depth introduction to its various educational initiatives.

In addition to her interactions at CLIMBS and the Co-operative College, Ms. Statz visited the Oro Integrated Cooperative, a member-owner of CLIMBS, providing her with firsthand insights into the operations and impact of local cooperatives.

Ms. Statz’s visit signifies the strength and solidarity that exists between cooperators worldwide. Her extensive experience as an education director with the Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, has endowed her with a wealth of knowledge and insights into cooperative management and education. Her presence at CLIMBS facilitated a rich intercultural exchange of knowledge, ideas, and visions, which are instrumental in advancing the global cooperative agenda.

Given the ongoing efforts of Coop College PH to establish a robust foundation for cooperative education, Ms. Statz’s visit was particularly timely. Her insights and expertise provided invaluable perspectives that will undoubtedly enhance the cooperative education framework in the Philippines. This visit not only fostered international cooperation but also underscored the importance of collaborative learning and shared goals in the cooperative movement.

CLIMBS is grateful for Ms. Statz’s visit and looks forward to future opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange, further strengthening the bonds within the global cooperative community. Together, we are committed to promoting sustainable development and resilience through cooperative principles and practices.

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