For the Southville Global Education Network (SGEN), education has always been more than grades, honors or academic achievement. It is about shaping lives, building character, and helping young people grow into compassionate individuals who can make a positive difference in the world. This commitment recently earned global recognition as three SGEN institutions—Southville International School and Colleges, Stonyhurst Southville International School – Batangas, and Stonyhurst Southville International School – Malarayat—were named 2026 State and National Schools of Character.

As the highest distinction awarded by Character.org, a leading international advocate for ethical leadership and character development, the State and National Schools of Character are recognized for intentionally creating communities where students feel valued, respected, supported, and inspired to grow. For SGEN, this recognition reflects years of nurturing school environments where kindness, empathy, integrity, and respect are lived every day in classrooms, hallways, and relationships.

During the evaluation process, trained reviewers witnessed how character education is woven into the culture of the schools through meaningful programs such as EQ/ACT (Emotional Quotient/Achievers Core Training) and TOWPEP (Tier One Well-Being and Personal Effectiveness Program). These initiatives help students develop emotional intelligence, resilience, self-awareness, and the confidence to face life’s challenges with courage and compassion. The result is not only stronger academic performance, but also happier students, healthier relationships, and a warmer school community where every child feels they belong.

“Schools of Character show us what is possible when a school community commits to building a culture where students learn empathy, curiosity, civic responsibility, and perseverance alongside academic skills,” shared Nicole Diehl. She noted that SGEN’s recognition reflects its sincere and sustained commitment to creating learning environments where students feel genuinely cared for and empowered to thrive.

As SGEN celebrates this meaningful milestone, its mission remains clear: to form young people whose intelligence is guided by integrity and whose success is rooted in compassion. Beyond producing high achievers, SGEN continues to shape future leaders with the heart, character, and humanity to make the world a better place.