Resilience of a Private Catholic University during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study

Aims: This qualitative study attempts to flesh out the factors intricately at play in the resilience of a private higher education institution during the COVID-19 pandemic. Study Design: Descriptive Phenomenology. Place and Duration of Study: Private Catholic University in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, during Academic Year 2023-2024. Methodology: The study made use of Descriptive Phenomenology as its main research design. The study involved 8 purposively-selected participants who were involved in major decision making of the university during the COVID-19 Pandemic through a selection criteria. In-depth interviews were conducted to examine the lived experiences, perspectives, and narratives of its key stakeholders offering insights into the resilient ethos that characterizes this institution. Braun and Clarke’s steps in thematic analysis was utilized to illuminate the themes of the participant’s narratives. Rigor and trustworthiness were also ensured in the conduct of the study. Results: The study illuminated four (4) main themes: (1) Expanding Institutional Perspectives: Transformative Education, Tailor-fitted Partnership, Technological Innovations, and Inclusivity; (2) Prioritizing Student and Employee Well-Being: Community-Based, Proactive, and Sustainable Initiatives; (3) Ensuring Campus Safety and Security; and (3) Strengthening Financial and Organizational Resilience: Strategic Financial Management; Resilience over Political Challenges; Employee-Centric Management; Culture of Financial Preparedness; and Enhanced Data Management. The results implied the essence of preparedness and adaptability among educational institutions to endure and thrive amidst adversity. Conclusion: Thus, such mechanisms empower the institution to endure, adapt, thrive, and prepare for unprecedented adversities in the future. The results may also serve as bases for other higher education institutions in their pursuit for adaptability and resilience.