A record 136 graduates celebrate ASCC's 79th Commencement

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoa Community College held its 79th Commencement Ceremony at the Kanana Fou Theological Gymnasium on Friday, December 15, 2023, for a record 136 graduates, with several milestones.

The commencement ceremony drew a crowd of ministers of various denominations, government officials, parents, relatives and friends to celebrate the milestones achieved by the graduates.

Bishop Eneliko Kelemete, President of the Pago Pago Stake from the the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints (LDS) delivered the invocation and reminded the graduates,“That the fear of Lord, is the beginning of knowledge.”

In her welcoming remarks, President of the American Samoa Community College, Dr. Rosevonne Makaiwi-Pato highlighted the achievement of the Fall 2023 graduates.

“Today marks several milestones for the American Samoa Community College and firsts that have been achieved by the graduates.

“Today marks a record number of 136 graduates, of which seven are receiving their Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Today we witnessed 10 Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and five Registered Nurse (RN) graduates, who in the first sitting of the NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) have passed, with a 100 percent passing rate.”

And also a first for ASCC, we will be witnessing four who will be graduating with a Certificate of Proficiency to teach in the Samoan language.

Another great achievement is the six graduating with a Certificate of Proficiency in Public Health. Graduates of Fall 2023, today marks a new day for you with new beginnings.

“Your achievement of Certificates, Associate Degrees, Bachelor Degrees, and the Graduate Degrees are not only your successes but that of the American Samoa Community College, the community, and the territory.”

Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga delivered his special remarks and reminded the graduates the importance of being grateful.

To “thank their parents and families, their children, their spiritual parents, and those who helped them during their educational journey.

“Always remember your humble beginnings for it will be your guide in your time of uncertainty.”

The Dean of Students Services, Dr. Emilia Le’i had the honor of introducing the guest speaker House Representative of Fagatogo Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr. In his commencement address, faipule Gurr challenged the graduates by posing questions as to their vision for American Samoa in the next 20 years:

 “Is it the meth problem you would like to see disappear? As it is presently out of control.

“How about the numerous burglaries and domestic violence cases? Which are at an all time high, largely fueled by a drug epidemic in our territory.

“Would you like to see our businesses and farms predominantly owned by native Samoans?”

He also encouraged female graduates to consider having a first female Governor of American Samoa.

Gurr stated he would join hand in hand with Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean’s challenge during the 75th American Samoa Legislature, to challenge the women of American Samoa to become the next Governor, Speaker of the House or the President of the Senate before the 100th Year Anniversary of the AS Legislature.

“…I am joining the President of the Senate to encourage the women of Tutuila and Manu’a to take on this challenge and I quote, ‘There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise’.”

He emphasized to the graduates that, “you are our future leaders, and it is you who can make a positive change in our islands.

“It is your collective responsibility… I challenge you to be an active participant and individual who would speak out for the betterment of our society, so that 20 years from now you can see a positive change in our islands that you helped input.”

Followed by the commencement address was the presentation of the graduates by the Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Siamaua Ropeti and the acceptance of the graduates by Chairman of the Board of Higher Education, Reverend Elder Fouvale Asiata. The distribution of the degrees and certificates was carried out by ASCC and Special Dignitaries. It was followed by the graduating class hymn of “Lo Ta Nu’u Moni”.

Western District Governor Faivae Iuli Alex Godinet and chairman of the ASG Scholarship Board presented the Special Awards for ASG.

The ceremony concluded with the benediction by LDS Bishop Kelemete followed by the retiring of Colors by Tafuna High School JROTC.