Biography | The 3rd University President
Dr. Luis “Chito” M. Samson, Jr. is a distinguished academic leader and administrator who currently serves as the third President of the University of Luzon. Under his leadership, the institution continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community service, further strengthening its position as one of the leading higher education institutions in the Northern Luzon. He proudly carries forward the enduring legacy established by his father and later strengthened by his brother, dedicating his efforts to advancing quality education and institutional development in Philippine private higher education.
Born on September 22, 1952, in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, Luis Jr. is the son of Atty. Luis Fulgencio Samson, founder and the first president of the University of Luzon, and Doña Josefa “Epang” Reyna Mendoza, founder of Samson Vocational School. Raised in a family of educators and leaders, he was exposed early to academic leadership, institutional management, and civic responsibility. These values would later guide his professional and personal endeavors.
Luis Jr. completed his elementary and secondary education at San Beda College before earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in East Asian Studies, majoring in Asian Economics, History, and Philosophy, from De La Salle University in 1974. He further pursued graduate studies in Educational Management and was later awarded the degree of Doctor of Education (Honoris Causa) by the National University in recognition of his significant contributions to education and institutional leadership.
Before becoming the University President, Dr. Luis Samson, Jr. held several key administrative positions that contributed significantly to the institution’s growth and development. He served as Executive Secretary to the President and actively participated in university governance, strategic planning, institutional coordination, and academic development initiatives. Through these significant responsibilities, he gained extensive experience in university operations, policy formulation, and academic administration, preparing him for executive leadership. In addition to his role in higher education, he also serves as President of Luzon Medical Center, where he provides leadership in advancing healthcare services and supporting the institution’s commitment to quality patient care. He also serves as a Trustee of Mother Goose Special Science High School System, Inc., further extending his commitment to educational advancement and leadership in shaping future generations of learners. These diverse leadership experiences have equipped him with the vision, expertise, and dedication necessary to effectively guide the University of Luzon as its third President.
As the President of the University of Luzon, Dr. Luis Samson, Jr. has provided visionary leadership that has strengthened the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and service. He has championed initiatives that enhance instructional quality, faculty development, research productivity, and student success, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and lifelong learning. Under his leadership, the University has achieved significant accreditation milestones, expanded academic opportunities into even international programs, strengthened quality assurance systems, and embraced technological and educational advancements to meet the evolving demands of higher education. Through strategic planning, collaborative governance, and a student-centered approach, he has guided the University of Luzon toward sustained growth and institutional excellence, further solidifying its reputation as a leading educational institution dedicated to transforming lives and empowering future generations.
As an avid advocate for sports development and student-athlete empowerment, Dr. Luis Samson, Jr. has made sure to dedicate part of his leadership career to advancing athletics as an essential component of holistic education. As Executive Director of the University of Luzon Institute of Sports and Physical Education, he has championed programs that promote excellence in sports, physical wellness, character formation, and leadership among students. His unwavering support has helped strengthen the University’s athletic programs and expand opportunities for student-athletes to compete and excel at regional and national levels.
Beyond the University of Luzon, Dr. Samson has played an active role in various sports and civic organizations. He has held key positions as the Regional President and National Vice President for Luzon in the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) and as the Regional Director in the Basketball Association of the Philippines, contributing to the growth and development of amateur sports in the country. His commitment to fostering sportsmanship, discipline, teamwork, and youth development reflects his belief that athletics serve as a powerful platform for personal growth of the students.
Complementing his involvement in sports, Dr. Samson has also been an active member and leader of respected civic organizations, including the Rotary Club, the YMCA, and the various Jaycee organizations. Through these affiliations, he has continuously promoted community service and social responsibility. His lifelong dedication to education, athletics, and civic engagement has made him a respected figure whose influence extends far beyond the classroom and into the broader community.
Throughout his career, Dr. Luis Samson Jr. has demonstrated exceptional leadership not only in academia but also in public service and community development. Beyond academe, Councilor Luis Samson Jr. has dedicated much of his life to public service. Affectionately known to many Dagupeños as Konsi Chito, he served multiple terms as a City Councilor of Dagupan City. As a public official, he hold various committee chairmanships, particularly in education, peace and order, trade and industry, and appropriations. His dedication to public service reflects his committed belief that education and good governance are essential pillars of community progress.
Married to Angeline Floro Bernal, Mr. Luis “Chito” Samson, Jr. is a devoted husband, loving father, and dedicated family man whose values are deeply rooted in faith, unity, and service. Together, they have raised four children—Luis Santiago III, Nikki Ruth, Lee Jasper, and Luis Angelo IV—instilling in them the importance of the University’s philosophy of “Perecias y Valias” (Skills and Values).
Dr. Luis Samson, Jr. is widely respected for his contributions to education, sports development, and community service. Throughout his distinguished career, he has earned recognition for his exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to excellence, and dedication to empowering future generations. Through his visionary leadership and steadfast service, he continues to make a meaningful impact on the University of Luzon, the educational sector, and the broader community, solidifying his legacy as one of Pangasinan’s most esteemed academic and civic leaders.
