Project Pipeline launches to provide pathways to Legal Education for American Samoa Residents

Pago Pago, AMERIAN SAMOA — A new initiative, Project Pipeline, was officially launched on April 2nd, 2025, at the Gov. H. Rex Lee Auditorium with remarks from key leaders and partners, marking a significant step toward expanding opportunities in legal education for residents of American Samoa.

The project is a partnership between the Attorney General’s Office and the Department of Commerce, which secured funding through the Workforce Grant to provide LSAT prep resources to  40 selected participants.

Attorney General Gwen Tauili'ili Langkilde opened the ceremony with inspiring words, emphasizing the importance of education and how the program would pave the way for future legal professionals in the territory. She expressed her commitment to building pathways for students to succeed, and encouraged the participants to take full advantage of this unique opportunity.

Director of The Department of Commerce, Aliimuamua Magdalene Pepe Petaia, also offered remarks, highlighting the department's dedication to empowering the community through education and workforce development.

Joining the ceremony virtually, Instructor Brent Dunn of the ACE LSAT Test Prep program shared insights into how ACE has helped hundreds of students improve their LSAT scores, with many advancing from the 50th and 60th percentiles to the 80th and 90th percentiles. He was introduced as the official LSAT Instructor for the program’s participants.

In addition, Tyler Cegler, a representative from the University of Hawaii Manoa Richardson Law School, spoke about their online Juris Doctorate Program, which offers a flexible opportunity for working individuals in American Samoa to pursue a law degree without having to relocate.

Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula offered special remarks, commending the Attorney General for her leadership in launching Project Pipeline just three months into her term. He also recognized the Department of Commerce for their invaluable partnership.

The Governor emphasized the significance of the Attorney General's decision to leave her post as Judge in the Justice and High Court to take on the role of Attorney General, noting that she took a substantial pay cut — $35,000 — to serve in her current position.

He stated, “The Attorney General is a true example of the kind of leadership we need, and this program will create pathways for the next generation of leaders.”

Governor Pula also expressed hope that participants in the program would return to serve the territory after obtaining their law degrees.

Bishop Kolio Tumanuvao Etuale offered opening and closing prayers during the event, which concluded with a group photo of the selected candidates, symbolizing the start of their journey toward a legal education and future in public service.

Project Pipeline is committed to empowering individuals in American Samoa by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to pursue a law degree and return to their community as legal professionals.

For more information about Project Pipeline, please contact the Attorney General's Office with Legal Affairs at 633-4163.