75 ASCC graduates celebrate their 84th Commencement Exercises

Plus 18 ASCC alumni returning to be recognized for completing their studies abroad By Asi Andrew Fa'asau andrew@samoanews.com (FP) 5911.JPG 5924.JPG Director of Agriculture Daniel Elisara Helsham — an ASCC graduate, was the commencement speaker of the 84th Commencement Exercises of the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) last Friday at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] 5901.JPG The formal processional of the ASCC 84th Commencement Exercises last Friday at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. Pictured is the formal processional led by ASCC President Dr. Rosevorre Makaiwi‐Pato, Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula, Congresswoman Uifa‘atali Aumua Amata Coleman‐Radewagen, cabinet members, senior government officials, ASCC faculty and staff, and the commencement speaker, Director of Agriculture Daniel Helsham. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] 5912.JPG The posting of the colors was performed by the Tafuna High School JROTC during the 84th Commencement Exercises of the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) last Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] 5923.JPG Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula delivering his special remarks during the 84th Commencement Exercises of the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) last Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. [photo: Asi A. Fa'asau] Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) held its 84th Commencement Exercises last Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium, bringing together graduates, families, educators, government leaders, and the community to honor the achievements of seventy-five graduates, along with eighteen ASCC alumni returning to be recognized for completing their studies at colleges and universities abroad. The program opened with welcoming remarks from Master of Ceremony Mrs. Sifagatogo Eli‐Tuitasi, setting the tone for a morning focused on achievement, family pride, and the college’s mission of academic excellence. The formal processional followed, led by ASCC President Dr. Rosevorre Makaiwi‐Pato Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula, Congresswoman Uifa‘atali Aumua Amata, cabinet members, senior government officials, ASCC faculty and staff, and the commencement speaker, Director of Agriculture Daniel Helsham. The posting of the colors was performed by the Tafuna High School JROTC, after which Pastor Francis Lolesio of the Assemblies of God delivered the invocation, offering prayers for the graduates and their families. He quoted from the book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 11, verses 3 and 4: “If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be. “He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.” Pastor Lolesio reminded the congregation that two significant things had come to pass that morning. “Firstly,” he said, “showers of blessings from God have fallen upon us. Through His grace, we gather to witness this long‐anticipated day — a day when students are officially recognized and accredited for their many hours, days, and years of study, supported faithfully by their families and loved ones.” “Secondly,” he continued, “today, the tree has fallen. According to the wisdom of Solomon, ‘in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.’ Indeed, the tree has fallen today because this is the day of reaping. These graduates have been sowing diligently, patiently, and faithfully. Now they stand ready to reap the blessings God has prepared for them. For if there had been no sowing, there could be no reaping.” He then reflected on the fourth verse of Ecclesiastes 11: “He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.” “No doubt,” Pastor Lolesio said, “we are here today because of God’s divine plan — and because of the graduates’ unwavering commitment to pursue knowledge that will help them realize their aspirations for a successful future. Despite the many challenges along the way, they did not fix their eyes on the strong winds or fear the shifting dark clouds. And God, in His unconditional love and mercy, has allowed this ceremony to take place. To God be the power and the glory!” ASCC President Dr. Makaiwi‐Pato then delivered her special remarks, commending the graduates for their perseverance and urging them to carry forward the values of service, resilience, and lifelong learning. She emphasized the college’s continued commitment to student success and the vital role higher education plays in strengthening the territory’s workforce and future. “The territory needs your knowledge and skills to build a stronger economy that thrives and continues to move forward,” Dr. Makaiwi‐Pato stated. “The future of American Samoa — and the present condition of our islands — depends on you. Our territory needs you and welcomes you into the workforce, especially in areas of high need and hard‐to‐fill positions. Your next step is yours to choose, and we are depending on you.” In his special remarks, Governor Pulaalii acknowledged not only the graduates’ commitment and determination throughout their educational journey, but also the sacrifice and steadfast support of their families and loved ones who helped carry them to this moment. “Today we celebrate not only your accomplishments but also the quiet sacrifices that brought you here,” the Governor said. “The long nights, the early mornings, the challenges you pushed through, and the people who stood beside you every step of the way. Many of your families sacrificed so that you could have this opportunity. Today belongs to them as much as it belongs to you. “Our islands need people who will use their talents to strengthen our communities with kindness, integrity, humility, and service — people who remember where they come from and who they are, and who carry our values with them wherever they go. As you move forward, be confident in yourselves and in the Lord. Do not fear the future. Your community is proud of you, your families are proud of you, and your journey is just beginning. “Congratulations, Class of 2026. We are truly proud of you, and we believe in you.” The importance of people‐inspired service was echoed by Commencement Speaker Daniel Elisara Helsham, Director of Agriculture. He shared his own memories as a young student, waiting impatiently for his graduation ceremony to end so he could move on to the next chapter of his education — not yet understanding the significance of the moment. “My mom, who was a longtime educator, never saw it that way,” Helsham recalled. “She believed that education mattered. It opened doors, created opportunities, and built a future that circumstances alone could not guarantee. More than that, she believed education came with responsibility. If you receive a good education and don’t use it to serve your community afterward, then what was the purpose of going to school at all? Her words echo in my mind to this day." He also shared his dad's contributions in his life instilling in him the importance of integrity, or keeping your word, and about doing the right thing even when no one is looking, and even when you stand alone. "He always said, saying something and doing something are two different things son," he reminisced. "Words alone mean little if they are not backed by action. Leadership, responsibility, and trust are built not just by what we say, but by what we consistently do. Showing up and supporting others is one of the most important lessons he taught me, and it's something he continues to do today, as he sits in this crowd watching me as if I'm graduating all over again. "That presence reminds me that leadership and integrity alone are not solitary actions. They're about being present, supporting others, and making a difference in the lives of the people around us. “Friends, graduates, these are what we call the intangible qualities. Things you can't quantify on a transcript or a paycheck, but that define who you are, the leader you've become and the difference you make in the lives of others. As you step into the next chapter of your life, remember that your education is not just for you. It is a responsibility to serve, help, and lift up the people around you." The ceremony continued with the presentation of degrees and certificates to the 75 local ASCC graduates, representing programs across the college’s academic divisions, including Trades & Technology, Health & Human Services, Liberal Arts, and Teacher Education. Families filled the gymnasium, cheering as each graduate crossed the stage to receive their credential. The ceremony concluded with the recessional and closing benediction, marking the end of a milestone day for the Class of 2026 and the beginning of their next chapter in education, employment, or service to the community. Section: Local News Tags: ASCC 84th Commencement
2026-05-18 16:38:03