Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — It was just under a two-hour ceremony that acknowledged, accepted and confirmed the 214 graduates of Samoana High School Class of 2023. The Commencement was held at the Samoana Gymnasium in Utulei, Tuesday, June 13, 2023 with the theme —“ Let God grant what is in your heart and fulfill all your plans.” Psalm 20:4

A majority of the graduates with parents, family members, friends and invited guests arrived ahead of the 9a.m. beginning time, including Gov. Lemanu P. S. Lemanu, which started the Commencement ahead of time — with the Class of 2023 marching to their seats, signaling the beginning of the ceremony.

The sound of honking horns and the clamor of the excited crowd was already in the air — coming from all four corners of the compound. There were three access gates into the gym that were secured by uniformed guards. Inside, seating was strictly reserved for guests and relatives and the graduates who filled up more than 500 seats in no time.

Other community members, supporters and relatives were seated outside under tents.

Acting Principal of SHS Mrs Brenda Coffin- Aisoli welcomed everyone, including Gov Lemanu, Acting Director of Education, Folau Saua Faafetai Teofilo, ASG Scholarship Board representative, Mrs. Lisa Gebauer, clergy and community members.

Dr. Julie Ekeroma- Faalogo, the Vice Principal of SHS, recognized the six Valedictorians and the one Salutatorian.

#1 Valedictorian Arianna Florra Taatasi of Pago Pago and Aloau

She will be attending the American Samoa Community College, majoring in Engineering. She was also accepted to Chaminade University in Honolulu.  

#2 Valedictorian Jackie Vasaeafe Solinuu Tanielu from Ofu,  Ta’u Manu’a, Vailoa Aleipata, Vaimoso, Saluafata and Pago Pago

She plans to major in Psychology and intends to join the U.S. Air Force.  She’s been accepted to Portland State University, University of Texas at Dallas and University of Houston.

#3 Valedictorian, Kimo Latani Jr. Tuivaiti of Pago Pago and Fasitootai

Kimo will be attending ASCC for two years majoring in Pre - Law. He has been accepted to Chadron State College, Oregon State University and Montana State University.

#4 Valedictorian Letiunasema John Niusila of Alofau, Afono and independent Samoa,

He will be majoring in Medical Engineering and Agricultural Science and has been accepted to Cornell University, University of South Carolina, Purdue University and Baylor University.

#5 Valedictorian Malo Ramax Mata’u of Fagasa and Leloaloa,

He will major in computer science and has been accepted to Missouri Southern State University.

#6 Valedictorian Rylee Faaluameta Jessop

She has been accepted to Brigham Young University, majoring in Pre Business.

Salutatorian Lumafale Tavau Tupuivao from Fagaalu,

She will be majoring in Engineering and Business, and has been accepted to Beloit College, Aquinas College and American International College.  

Acting Director of Education, Folau Saua Faafetai Teofilo, confirmed and accepted the 214 graduates who had successfully met all requirements to receive their diplomas.

Governor Lemanu in his special remarks stated, “Desires and dreams are not more fantasies but powerful forces that shape your path.

“As you embark on this chapter, remember that you have been equipped with the knowledge, skills, character to pursue the desires of your heart.

“You have spent countless hours studying, engaging in discussion and challenging yourselves to grow intellectually and emotionally.

“Your time here has been an investment in your future — a foundation in which you will build your dreams.

“True success is not measured by individual achievements or material gains rather it lies in the ability to contribute to the betterment of the world around us.

“Psalms 20:4 reminds us that success is not an isolated pursuit. It is intertwined with the well being of others.

“As you step into the world beyond this campus let us remember the power we hold to impact lives positively — your education values that have been instilled in you have prepared you not only to chase your dreams but also to serve as a catalyst for change.

“You have the potential to make a long  lasting difference whether it can be through a scientific breakthrough,  artistic  expression, compassionate acts,  or innovative solutions to global change challenges and let me remind you that the journey towards the fulfillment of your desires will undoubtedly be marked by obstacles thats a given for everybody failures and uncertainties.

“It is during this time we must lean on our faith, our resilience and our unwavering determination. We must be vigilant in our pursuit of excellence, Refusing to differ from setbacks or doubts.

“Psalm 20: 4 assures us that … if we align our actions with our deepest  desires, and remain steadfast in our faith in the Lord, success will follow.”

After the ceremony was over, the celebration continued throughout the afternoon, with motorcades of trucks streaming east and west with joyous graduates reveling to their hearts content.