Yesterday, I had the privilege of joining so many others at the solemn ceremony where Universidad Monteávila presented an Honorary Doctorate in Education to our beloved and admired Christine. For me, it was a deeply moving moment. I knew firsthand the true depth and meaning behind that ceremony, that milestone, and that applause.
In doing this, UMA rendered a true act of justice. You only had to watch the video showcasing everything Christine has achieved—and continues to achieve—through her project and life’s purpose to see that this recognition was both right and necessary.
Be sure to follow our social media channels, where we will be sharing that wonderful video.
UMA has recognized the profound impact of the work Christine has championed.
Through the Aprendiendo a Querer / Alive to the World program, she has brought values-based education and character formation directly to schoolchildren, a tool with a proven track record of elevating society, which is no small feat.
Shared values are the foundational reason societies function at all. I like to think that when things do work, it is because of them; conversely, whenever we see things breakdown, it is invariably due to a lack of values.
Reflecting on values requires us to look at least two distinct dimensions. One, undoubtedly, is the moral dimension. The other is highly practical and concrete: values are the invisible bonds that sustain collective life. They act as a tacit social contract, providing a shared framework that makes coexistence possible. They help us distinguish what is beneficial from what is harmful, and allow us to establish common expectations.
By anchoring society, values foster smoother coexistence and minimize conflict. They build trust, reminding us that honesty and accountability are the bedrock of stable relationships. They uphold justice and institutional norms. They inspire solidarity and a genuine sense of community, and ultimately, they drive human progress.
I am certain that regardless of who we are, where we come from, what we own, or what our race or religion may be, we can all agree on this. Christine’s true genius was giving clarity, structure, and purpose to what everyone else simply took for granted.
While it is easy to casually agree that yes, values are essential for society to thrive, she chose to go much further. Driven by a clear vision, she surrounded herself with the right experts to design, develop, and implement a school curriculum. This program has the unique power to reach the minds and hearts of children with love, helping them internalize a life of values and inspiring them to become virtuous citizens who build healthy communities. It is truly magnificent.
The tribute paid to her yesterday by UMA was, I repeat, an act of justice. It honors her unwavering loyalty to a vision and her courage to walk a long, uncertain path that was clearly complex from the very start. It recognizes her ability to bring together the right talent, lead them effectively, and collectively build an exceptional legacy through AaQ. Above all, it recognizes the tenacity, perseverance, grit, and absolute consistency of someone who, guided by divine inspiration, never faltered in what she made her life’s core purpose.
Today, we celebrate Christine de Vollmer. All of us who believe in and support this extraordinary mission applaud this recognition with immense pride and satisfaction—knowing that in honoring her, we too feel honored.
By José Antonio Perrella