Twenty-two graduate from Kanana Fou High School, Class of 2024

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The 22 members of the Kanana Fou High School Class of 2024, home of the Stallions, received inspiring and empowering advice from Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga in their Commencement Ceremony yesterday morning.

The ceremony held at the school gymnasium started with the Invocation by CCCAS Vice Chairman Rev. Elder Fa’aeteete Saifoloi.

In his special remarks, Governor Lemanu addressed the graduating class and urged them to believe in themselves as they venture out into the world.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in your lives,” Governor Lemanu said. “A moment of transition, reflection and celebration. As you stand on the threshold of the future, it is natural to feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension. But in this whirlwind of emotion, I want to remind you of a powerful truth.

“You do not become what you want, you become what you believe - that is the theme of your commencement exercise today. This simple yet profound statement holds the key to unlocking your potential and shaping your destinies.

“It speaks to the power of your beliefs, the convictions that guide your actions and the mindset that determines your outcomes. Throughout your academic journey, you undoubtedly encountered challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt.

“But it is during these times that your beliefs are truly tested. Will you succumb to self-doubt and uncertainty? Or will you choose to believe in yourself and your abilities? You see, the path to success is rarely linear, it’s filled with twists and turns as you came to understand and learn in the 12 years of your education.

“Ups and downs from your friends, family, even your teachers and school environment. But what ultimately propels you forward is not your goals or ambitions, but the belief that we have what it takes to overcome any obstacles in your life.

“Belief is the driving force behind every great achievement in history. It’s what fueled Thomas Edison to persevere through thousands of failed attempts before inventing the light bulb. It’s what inspired Rosa Parks to stand up for her rights and ignite a movement for justice and equality, and it’s what empowers each and everyone of you to dare to dream and reach for the stars.

“As you leave the familiar halls of Kanana Fou and venture out into the world, take with you the unwavering belief in your potential. Always remember that your thoughts have the power to shape your reality, and always remember that your beliefs have the power to transform your lives.

“So graduates, as you embark on this new chapter of your journey, I urge you to hold fast to your beliefs. Believe in your strength, your passion and your purpose. Believe in the limitless possibilities that lie ahead and above all, believe in yourselves, for it is through belief that you truly become the architects of your own destinies.”

The graduates were presented and accepted by Vice Chairman CCCAS Education Board, Rev. Memo Tapaleao, while DOE Director Dr. Talauega Samasoni Asaeli officially confirmed the graduates.

The Co-Valedictorians are Floranaunees Polikapo and Patricia Ta, and the Co-Salutatorians are Zeruiah Tuilaepa and Layla Falealii.

The Co-Valedictorians also won the Presidential Award.

Other special awards include the Scholastic Award won by Co-Salutatorian Zeruiah Tuilaepa, while the Scholastic ACT Award and Citizenship Award went to Co-Valedictorian Floranaunees Polikapo.

Layla Falealii was awarded the Leadership Award, Cultural Award and the Female Athletic Award.

The Male Athletic Award went to Jeter Lualua. ‘Most Improved’ Award went to Justice Seufalemua and the 2024 Four-Way Test Award went to Dharzeenah J. Aliitaeao.

Co-Valedictorian Ms Ta has been accepted to Texas Tech University, University of New Mexico, Chaminade University, and Southern Utah University with a 4-year scholarship for $55,264. She has enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

Co-Valedictorian Ms Polikapo has been accepted to Southern Utah University with a 4-year scholarship or $55,264, and to Southern Oregon University.

Co-Salutatorian Ms Tuilaepa has been accepted to Southern Utah University with a 4-year scholarship or $55,264, Montana State University with a 3-year scholarship for $56,000, Chaminade University, Southern Oregon University, and Bushnell University.

Co-Salutatorian Ms Falealii has been accepted to Southern Utah University with a 4-year scholarship or $55,264, Chaminade University, Southern Oregon University, and University of Hawaii- Manoa Campus receiving a mana Academic Merit Scholarship.

Winner of the 2024 Four-Way Test Award Ms Aliitaeao has been accepted to Southern Utah University with a 4-year scholarship or $55,264.

Mr. Mark Toluao has received a football scholarship from the University of Utah.

Congresswoman Uifa'atali Aumua Amata is sponsoring this year’s high school photo page coverage and sends out her congratulations to all graduates of 2024.