The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) will hold its 79th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 15th, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. At press time, 135 students are slated to receive their degrees and certificates from the College, although that number is subject to final examination results. In keeping with its tradition of inviting a distinguished community member to address the graduating class, the College is proud to announce that Representative Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr will give the keynote address at the upcoming ceremony.

Born to Peter Gurr of Maloatā, Aoloau, and Nukunonu in Tokelau, and Donna Gurr of Fagatogo and Pago Pago, Malaeoletalu brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the podium. He completed his elementary education at Manumalo Baptist School and graduated from Leone High School, the American Samoa Community College, and the University of Hawaii at Mānoa. His tenure at the University of Hawaii included a significant leadership role as the President of the Fealofani O Samoa Student Organization.

Currently serving his first term as Faipule for Fagatogo District 8 in the House of Representatives, Malaeoletalu is the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Works and Vice-Chairman of the House Health Committee. Prior to his political career, he contributed significantly in various capacities in the Office of the Governor during the Lolo-Lemanu Administration and the first year of the Lemanu-Talauega Administration. His roles included membership on the American Samoa Zoning Board, the American Samoa Tax Exemption Board, and the American Samoa Institutional Review Board.

Rooted in his upbringing, Malaeoletalu actively participates in community life, serving as the treasurer for the Fagatogo Village Council, and contributing to family, church, and the youth of Fagatogo. His character is a reflection of moral values instilled as a child by his loving parents such as honesty, respect, hard work, kindness, and an unwavering faith in God. Malaeoletalu is married to Shantel I’atala Gurr from the villages of Amouli and Ili’ili. They are the proud parents of their son, Micah, a sophomore at Samoana High School. In addition to his familial, political, community roles, Malaeoletalu has been a dedicated employee of Hawaiian Airlines for the past 13 years.

“Malaeoletalu is another alumnus of ASCC who has gone on to distinguish himself through service to his community,” said ASCC Dean of Student Services Dr. Emilia Le’i, “and we greatly look forward to him sharing his insights with the graduating class of fall 2023.” In addition to Malaeoletalu, the College will also welcome Bishop Eneliko Kelemete, President of the Pago Pago Central Stake, Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, who will provide the Invocation.

For more information on the 79th ASCC Commencement, contact the College at 699-2722, extension 0004.