Senate confirms five new members to the Board of Higher Education
By Asi Andrew Fa'asau andrew@samoanews.com Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate has confirmed five of the Governor’s nominees to serve on the Board of Higher Education, completing the only approval step required for their appointments. All five nominees are women. Brigitte Taeatafa Moala and Loata Sipili were confirmed in a 14 – 1 vote, while Sesula Fepuleai McMoore‐Tufele, Dr. Oreta Mapu Crichton, and Dr. Lina Galeai Scanlan received unanimous support. The brief confirmation hearing on Wednesday, chaired by Senator Vailu'ulu'u Vaimili, focused on several key areas: the nominees’ current employment, whether they had been asked in advance about serving on the board, whether they had received any orientation, and what they hope to accomplish as members overseeing the American Samoa Community College (ASCC). Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean said he had no concerns about the nominees’ qualifications or capabilities. His primary question was whether the Governor had personally consulted them before submitting their names for appointment. McMoore‐Tufele explained that she had previously expressed to the Lieutenant Governor her interest in serving, and although she did not speak directly with the Governor, she was pleased to be selected. Sipili said she was contacted by Andra Samoa from the Governor’s Office. Dr. Mapu Crichton noted that she had told the Governor she wished to continue in public service and had specifically indicated her interest in the Board of Higher Education. Moala also said she had made her interest known to the Governor. Dr. Galeai‐Scanlan reported that she, too, had been contacted by Andra Samoa prior to her nomination. Senator Magalei Logovii raised one concern: all five nominees’ terms will expire at the same time. He noted that board appointments are typically staggered to maintain continuity. Senator Togiola T.A. Tulafono began his questioning by asking how many members currently serve on the Board of Higher Education. Sipili responded that the board is composed of eight members. Togiola then inquired whether the sitting board had reached out to the nominees and whether they had been given an opportunity to meet and familiarize themselves with the board’s duties and responsibilities. Sipili explained that she, along with Moala and McMoore‐Tufele, has already participated in orientation sessions conducted by the current board. These sessions covered the board’s core responsibilities as well as an overview of the operations of the American Samoa Community College. She noted that the board has several priority areas that require focused attention as it works to strengthen and advance ASCC. When Senator Togiola asked about their present employment, each nominee provided an update. Sesula Fepuleai McMoore‐Tufele said she is currently operating a private business from her home; Loata Sipili, a Registered Nurse, stated that she serves as the Manager of the LBJ Certified Diabetes Care and Education Division; Dr. Oreta Mapu Crichton shared that she is fully retired; Brigitte Taeatafa Moala reported that she is a Compliance Officer with the CIP and Special Programs Division in the Governor’s Office; and, Dr. Lina Galeai Scanlan told the committee she is currently teaching Grade 4 at South Pacific Academy. Senator Togiola then asked Sipili to elaborate on what was discussed during the orientation sessions. She recalled that the briefings covered the board’s objectives, governing regulations, and primary responsibilities, providing the nominees with a foundational understanding of their upcoming roles. Section: Local News Tags: BOARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION
2026-03-20 17:07:49