The Ateneo Mathematics Society (AMS) officially kicked off the academic year with its current and new members through the annual General Assembly held last September 19 at the Leong Hall Roofdeck. This opening event served as the organization’s warm welcome to its newest members, offering them a closer look into the heart of AMS, its mission, vision, and upcoming opportunities. True to its spirit of inclusivity and excellence, the evening was filled with energy, engagement, and a shared excitement for the year ahead.

The event opened with AMS President Chrislyn Ann Mañero delivering her opening remarks, where she welcomed the attendees and introduced the Executive Committee. She emphasized AMS’s identity as a community where every member can thrive, whether as a passionate learner, a curious thinker, or a community builder.

The program then shifted to a fun and lively icebreaker activity that brought out the wits, talents, and personalities of the members. Laughter and excitement echoed across the venue as participants jumped into the challenge. It was an energizing start that set the tone for the rest of the evening.

This was followed by a presentation from the Top Five officers: President Chrislyn Ann Mañero, Internals Vice President Vince Ang, Externals Vice President Kat Serafica, Chief Finance Officer Dennis Go, and Secretary-General Deanne Algenio. Led by the president, the segment focused on the vision and core competencies of AMS, including math education, math appreciation, and math excellence. Members were given a clear picture of what to expect in their AMS journey, from engagement and personal growth to leadership, career development, and networking opportunities.

The spotlight then turned to the departments: the Academics Department led by Zand Beck and Sean Tan, the Math Applications Department led by Kyla Adlaon and Marcus Tansiongkun, and the Member Relations Department led by Ella Guzon and Van Perio. Each department introduced its advocacy and projects, inviting members to contribute their unique strengths and passions in shaping the future of the departments and AMS.

Midway through the event, the members were treated to a classic AMS activity, Bingo, but with a twist. In three fast-paced rounds, including an exciting last-man-standing match, participants eagerly crossed out numbers and competed for fun prizes. The activity added fun and brought even more smiles to the evening.

Office presentations followed, led by the heads of the Finance Office (Dennis Go), Creatives Office (Bien Galoso), Documentations and Publications Office (Angelica Ramos), Data Analytics Office (Christian Paraan), External Relations Office (Tori Ching), Corporate Relations Office (Martin Bustos), and Sales Office (Kleah Casio & Rei Quines). Each office introduced their core functions and the unique projects they oversee, giving members a full picture of the offices and how they can get involved.

To close the evening, a socializing activity was held, giving AMS members the opportunity to meet and interact with their fellow members. Guided by unique prompts, participants walked around, found someone who fit the description, introduced themselves, and exchanged the Animath drawings they had made during registration. The activity provided a chance for members to get to know each other and form initial bonds that they can hopefully carry and nurture throughout their AMS journey.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the General Assembly had accomplished more than just introductions. It had planted seeds of excitement, curiosity, and connection. And for every new member who walked through the doors of Leong Hall that night, it was a reminder that in the Ateneo Mathematics Society, everybody counts.