The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) will hold its 79th Commencement Ceremony, Friday, December 15, 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.
The commencement speaker is House Representative for Fagatogo Malaeoletalu Melesio Gurr.
The son of Peter and Donna Gurr, Malaeoletalu 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, 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.
Malaeoletalu is married to Shantel I’atala Gurr and has one son.
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.”
