COTIME Celebrates Over a Century of Service to the Canary Islands’ Economy

COTIME Celebrates Over a Century of Service to the Canary Islands’ Economy

Source: El Día

The Official College of Mercantile and Business Graduates of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (COTIME) is celebrating its centenary with a commemorative event at the Hotel Mencey, honoring its long-standing role in the Canary Islands' economic development.

The Official College of Mercantile and Business Graduates of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (COTIME) is marking a major milestone this Friday, celebrating over a century of history. The event, held at the Hotel Mencey, brings together leaders from the regional government, the University of La Laguna, and the General Council of Economists of Spain, highlighting the organization's vital role in the Canary Islands' economy.

The day is divided into three main parts, blending professional discussion with the recognition of long-serving members. The opening session featured remarks from COTIME Dean Samuel Cruz Palenzuela, General Council of Economists President Miguel Ángel Vázquez Taín, and Deputy Minister of Economy Gustavo González de Vega. Their presence emphasized the importance of business graduates in navigating today’s complex financial and regulatory landscape.

The morning sessions included four round-table discussions where experts—including José Manuel Rodríguez, Juan Miguel López, Agustín Rodríguez, Borja García, Lucía Moreno, Vishal Sarup Nanwani, Verónica Rodríguez, Alexis Amaya, Inés Ruiz, and Abraham Gil—explored current challenges in auditing, taxation, market strategy, and entrepreneurship. The morning concluded with a welcome for new members and the presentation of Financial Education Program accreditations, reflecting the College’s ongoing commitment to professional development.

The afternoon session shifts focus to celebrating the careers of the College's members. Following a musical performance by Bel Canto, the institution will honor members for their years of service, ranging from Silver to Golden anniversaries. The ceremony will also feature the Andrés Pérez Faraudo and Arístides Ferrer awards, followed by the presentation of Gold and Diamond Insignias to Benito Regalado Rodríguez, Antonio Pérez Viera, Francisco Purriños Carrasco, Samuel Cruz Palenzuela, Keila Mendoza Hernández, and Ernesto D. Santana Tapia.

The event concludes with a look back at the organization's history, presented by Rubén Rodríguez. This gathering serves as a reminder that for more than a century, the profession of the mercantile graduate has remained a cornerstone of stability and growth for the Canarian economy.