The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) will hold its 83rd Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 12th, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Kanana Fou Gymnasium. At press time, 121 ASCC students are slated to receive their degrees and certificates from the College, although the final number will subject to examination results. The presiding pastor for the ceremony will be Reverend Peter Schuster, Synod Leader of the Tutuila Methodist Church. The keynote speech will be given by Ammon Fepulea’i, an ASCC alumnus and former faculty member who currently serves as Executive Director for the American Samoa Council on Arts, Culture, & Humanities.

               As an educator, artist, and community leader Fepulea’i’s work has significantly shaped the artistic and academic landscape of American Samoa. Born to Ali‘itasi and Paulo Fepulea‘i, Ammon is a proud alumnus of Samoana High School, graduating with the Class of 2005. He continued his academic journey at ASCC, where he earned his Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts in 2007. With a growing passion for mathematics, he pursued further studies at the University of Wyoming, graduating in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. His commitment to education later led him to the University of Hawai‘i, where he completed a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies in 2019.

               Fepulea’i began his professional career as a mathematics teacher at Samoana High School, serving from 2010 to 2020. His dedication to student learning and academic excellence then brought him back to ASCC, where he served as a mathematics instructor from fall 2020 through fall 2024. During his time at the College, he also played a vital role as an advisor to the House of Flying Daggers Club, a dynamic student group known for producing creative and influential musical productions in American Samoa. Fepulea’i continues to support and collaborate with these students, fostering artistic expression and community engagement.

               At the beginning of 2025, Fepulea’i was appointed Executive Director for the American Samoa Council on Arts, Culture, & Humanities, a position in which he continues to expand opportunities, resources, and visibility for artists throughout the islands. He also serves as the President of the Agency for Better Living Endeavors (ABLE) and as the lead for Moso‘oi, two organizations dedicated to community enrichment and creative advancement

               Through his leadership, artistry, and unwavering dedication to service, Fepulea‘i remains a driving force in cultivating a thriving and vibrant artistic future for American Samoa. A multidisciplinary artist, Ammon has contributed countless artworks across the territory, using his talents to celebrate culture, uplift communities, and empower young creators. His advocacy for youth development and his commitment to learning from and collaborating with local artists have solidified his reputation as a champion for the arts.

               “ASCC is proud to see our alumnus and colleague Ammon leading the effort to promote and facilitate artistic expression here in the Territory,” said ASCC Dean of Student Services Dr. Emilia Le’i. “We look forward to him sharing his story and his insights with our fall 2025 graduating class.” For more information on the Fall 2025 ASCC Commencement Ceremony, contact the Division of Student Services at 699-9155, extension 0004.