The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) has announced the fall 2025 recipients of its two “in-house” scholarships, the President’s Merit Scholarship and the Student Government Association (SGA) Non-Pell Scholarship. All ASCC students may apply for these scholarships, including those who do not qualify for the federal financial aid which most students born in the Territory have access to. This semester, Ms. Falesoa AJ Tufi and Ms. Elizabeth P.Tuitasi have both received the President’s Merit Scholarship, while the SGA Non-Pell Scholarship has gone to Mrl Vise Feagaiga and Ms, Akosita T Limaono. The four recipients will each receive a deduction of $500 from their ASCC tuition and fees. 

            Applicants for the President’s Merit Scholarship must be full-time students in the previous and current semesters and have maintained a grade point average of 3.60 or better. The need to have completed 24 credits towards an Associates Degree at ASCC, as well as the classes English 150, English 151 and Math 90. 

President’s Merit Scholarship recipient Ms. Tufi AJ Falesoa is studying towards an Associate of Science degree in Civil Engineering Technology. She graduated in 2023 from Nuuuli Voc Tech, where she earned an impressive record by serving as president of the Student Government Association and the National Technical Honor Society, among other distinctions. Since transitioning to ASCC, Ms. Falesoa has participated in a diverse selection of activities, including serving as a teaching assistant for the Guitar Building program, assisting the American Samoa Visitors Bureau host visitors when cruise ships are in town, and taking on the role of public relations officer with the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, of which she is a member. 

            Also receiving the President’s Merit Scholarship this semester is Ms. Elizabeth P. Tuitasi, a 2024 Marist/Fa’asao graduate currently majoring in Liberal Arts. While still in high school, Ms. Tuitasi experienced the bereavement of losing an older sibling, an experience which she says motivated her to pursue success in his memory. “Losing my brother changed me in profound ways,” she explained. “It taught me that grief can either paralyze you or propel you, and I chose to let it push me forward. I have developed emotional strength, a deep sense of purpose, and a renewed drive to succeed, especially in academics. My experience inspired me to pursue a career in science, where I hope to create meaningful change and help others through research and innovation.”

            The SGA Non-Pell Scholarship, sponsored by the ASCC Student Government Association requires that applicants be full-time students in the previous and current semester with a grade point average of 3.0 or better, have completed 12 credits or more towards an Associates Degree or Certificate of Proficiency at ASCC, and have completed English 90 and Math 80. 

Born in the Independent State of Samoa, SGA Non-Pell Scholarship recipient Mr. Vise Feagaiga graduated from Leone High School in 2024 and is now pursuing an Associate degree in Samoan Studies at ASCC. Now in his second semester at the College, Mr. Feagaiga has already made a positive impression based on his enthusiasm and commitment to learning. In the words of Dr. Evile Felei, one of his Samoan Studies instructors, “Vise is amongst the most ideal of Samoan students. I am convinced that Vise will one day become an advocate for Samoans, as well as a successful and contributing member of American Samoa’s community.” In addition to his academic activities, Mr. Feagaiga also volunteers at his church Lokou o le Ola, where he plays lead guitar with the church band and participates in all outreach and church activities. 

Also receiving the SGA Non-Pell Scholarship this semester is Health Science major Ms.   Akosita T. Limaono, a 2024 Samoana graduate originally from Fiji.  Describing her transition from high school to ASCC, she reflected, “It taught me the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and seeking support when needed. I realized that challenges are opportunities for growth and that perseverance can lead to success.” Ms. Limaono attends the Fijian Methodist Church of American Samoa, where her church youth leader Mr. Keli Lagilagi said of her, “I am confident that she will use her education to give back to her community in meaningful ways, especially as she pursues her aspiration of becoming a medical doctor.” 

            ASCC Dean of Student Services Dr. Emilia Le’i congratulated this semester’s four scholarship recipients and encouraged any interested ASCC students to apply for the available assistance. For more information on the in-house scholarships at ASCC, contact the Division of Student Services at 699-2722, extension 0004.