Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Two hundred and forty-seven Warriors graduated from Tafuna High School this past Tuesday morning, June 10, 2025, during the 40th Commencement Exercises held at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. The Class of 2025 theme was: “E Gase Toa Ae Ola Pule”.

The packed venue of family & friends, also included distinguished guests, seated on stage, Governor Pulaalii N. Pula, Congresswoman Uifaatali Amata, ASDOE director Maefau Dr. Mary L. Taufete’e, Mrs. Lisa Gebauer- ASG Scholarship Board member, Fono Legal Counsel Nathaniel Sunia Sotoa Savali, and Pastor David Katina.

Mrs. Tutuila Nature Togilau, THS Principal was the Master of Ceremonies.

The two-hour Commencement ceremony began with Pastor Katina of the Great Life Global ministry delivering spiritual words of guidance to the Class of 2025.

Congratulating the graduating Warriors, he noted the special relationship between his ministry and THS — as the pastor and his wife were invited to come in once a month to conduct prayers services for the students and administration.

Of their journey he offered Isaiah 46: 10: “I declare from the beginning how it will end. And foretell from the start what has not yet happened. I decree that my purpose will stand and I will fulfill my every plan.” He told graduates that it acknowledges that “God saw this day even when you were a little child.”

Pastor Katina then held up the B.I.B.L.E. the Book of “basic instructions before leaving Earth”, saying that it is more important than the Math book, History book, Science or English books. It is the book that will guide you through life, through “its ups and downs, twists and turns, and its many uncertainties,” and pointed to the Gospel of Jesus Christ as delivering these instructions.

He continued that as a Minister of the Gospel he wanted them to know that the Bible will determine their direction in life. He offered two simple words for the compass of their futures: What’s Next? … It’s up to you. “He has set before you this day… You chose …”

The Pastor left them a prayer and with this final word to remember: “PUSH” — when you don’t know what’s next — Pray Until Something Happens — God knows what’s next... Don’t walk alone.

Keynote speaker was a 2013 graduate of THS, who holds a Masters and PhD in Mathematics. Ms. Allison Fitisone is the first woman from American Samoa to hold a doctorate in Math, and currently teaches Math at the ASCC. Focusing on the Class of 2025’s theme, … meaning that “when Warriors fall, your legacy lives on.” It speaks of legacy & leadership. She emphasized that it speak of how our lives are measured not by what we get, but by what we give. “A legacy built on integrity, kindness and service endures,” she exhorted. Ms. Fitisone pointed out that they, the graduates, are in a sense the legacies of their families, their teachers… and of “those who came before you.”

“You are the hopes and dreams of your ancestors realized.”

She listed THS’ accomplishments for the school year, noting what an impressive legacy the Class of 2025 leaves behind at the Home of the Warriors and listed their back-to-back championships in volleyball, soccer, baseball, basketball, and football, as well as their national championship wins in JROTC Robotics and Aerial Drones, as well as the Drill Competition 3 years in a row. Art, Music, Math and Science awards were also touted, leading her to ask the graduates to use their accomplishments as launching pads to a future that acknowledges that all is “possible through Christ”.

Gov. Pulaalii offered special remarks.

Reminiscing on his experience at the Leone High School’s graduation ceremony on Monday, the governor asked the question: O le a le tagi o le toa? What is cry/ roar of the Warrior?” Calling up a male graduate to the stage, the young man offered his ‘tagi’. Pulaalii said he will be asking each high school for their ‘roar/ tagi’.

“What’s next?” he asked them, and reiterated what Pastor Katina said — to always put God first — “Ia muamua le Atua”.

Top students were introduced. They are co-Valedictorians Aveolela Ululani Lauvao, Kailel Merukelbad Tuamaaalo Ngiraivet and Punipuaoaoolelagi Heilala Fainuulelei. The Salutatorian was awarded to Vaoita Mine Summer-Lynn Sunia Savali.

Of note, Kailel quotes RuPaul Andre Charles to lead his graduation message: “When you become the image of your own imagination, it’s the most powerful thing you could ever do.”

“Once a Warrior… Always a Warrior”.

ASDOE director Maefau formally accepted the 247 graduates of Tafuna High School and congratulated them.

Diplomas were presented as the graduate names were announced. On stage to offer congratulations personally to each graduate as they received their diploma were the distinguished guests.

Mrs. Gebauer announced ASG scholarship awards, which are awarded to students who are US citizens or US nationals, and will attend ASCC or off-island universities.

Closing blessings were offered by Pastor Katina.