Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula has withdrawn his earlier nomination of three new members to the Board of Trustees of the American Samoa Government Employees Retirement Fund.
In a letter dated September 22, he advised the Senate President and House Speaker that he was submitting revised nominations for the Retirement fund Board. These include Faoa Aitofele Sunia, nominated to serve until July 22, 2030, replacing Ueligitone Tonumaipea; and Dr. Jean Hollister-Mareko, replacing Malemo Tausaga for a term to expire July 22, 2028.
In his early nomination letter dated September 10, the Governor had nominated Sunia, Hollister-Mareko, and businessman Peter Crispin to the Board. Crispin and Hollister-Mareko were confirmed by the House last week.
However, Mr. Crispin’s name was not on the latest letter of nomination.
The Governor stated that Sunia has been a public servant for almost 60 years and continues to have the passion to serve our community. He has been an assistant attorney general, District Court judge, Director of the Legislative Reference Bureau, ASG Treasurer, and Lt. Governor from 2003 to 2012. He also served as legal counsel for the Retirement Fund, Election Office, and Department of Public Safety. Sunia currently servs as Legal Counsel for Lt. Governor Pulumalataala Ae Ae Jr.
Regarding Dr. Holister-Mareko, the Governor noted that as an educator for more than 30 years, with both the Department of Education and American Samoa Community College, she brings a wealth of experience and empathy on the critical needs of employees. He added that her impeccable analytical and organizational skills will be welcomed and valuable to the Retirement Fund Board.
The other members of the Retirement Fund Board are Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean-Chairman, Toloai Ho Ching, Tony Togiai, and Loa Tuimavave Laupola.
