A director appointee and nominee for the American Samoa Medical Center Authority Board have been submitted to the Fono for confirmation.
Governor Lolo Moliga submitted the nomination of HTC Sala Dr. Sataua Mata’ese Samuelu as Director of Agriculture to replace Filifaatali Mike Fuiava who resigned last month.
The government states that HTC Sala not only has a distinguished educational background but also has a demonstrated record of leadership and public service that has prepared him well for this position.
He received his Doctorate in Education from Argosy University, a Master in Education from the University of Phoenix and Bachelor’s degree from the University of Hawaii, Manoa.
He also has experience as an administrator having been either a vice principal or principal at several local schools. The last one as Principal of Samoana High School.
He was also House Representative for Ituau District .
The governor said it’s critical to have individuals with the experience and leadership qualities of Sala in director positions to serve the people. “His knowledge and administrative skills will be of great benefit to the Department of Agriculture,” said the governor.
Nominated as a member of the Board of the Hospital Authority is High Chief Ufagafa Ray Tulafono who continues the tenure of Utoofili Aso Maga who passed away late last year.
Ufagafa Ray Tulafono
The governor said, “Ufagafa is eminently qualified to fill the board vacancy with his many years of leadership and public service experience.”
Ufagafa graduated from Chadron State College with a double major in chemistry and biology and also completed two years at the University of Hawaii School of Medicine. He has served as Director of Marine and Wildlife Resources three times.
He has also been a member of numerous boards and commissions including the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council and the Development Bank of American Samoa.
“ Ufagafa will continue to bring a vast amount of knowledge and experience that will benefit the board and most importantly the people of American Samoa.” said Governor Lolo.
