Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — “After much consideration,” American Samoa Chamber of Commerce chairwoman, Mrs. Ella Gurr informed the business organization’s board of directors of her decision to resign “effective immediately”, according to her Aug. 12th resignation letter.

“With my immediate resignation I’m so grateful to welcome and support Mrs. Luisa Kuaea as the new Chair of the Chamber of Commerce and excited for the direction she will lead us,” wrote Gurr, who has served in the leadership post for two years.

She explained the reason behind her resignation. “My commitments and focus for my family and health have become too great for me to be able to fulfill the requirements of my Chair position on the Board, and I feel it is best for me to make room for someone with the time and energy to devote to the job,” she wrote.

Gurr also informed the board that during her tenure as chairperson, she “witnessed all the great milestones completed in just a short time period, and I have no doubt the Board will continue these successes in the future.”

She points out that it was always a priority to make sure that the Chamber was a “strong advocate and voice for all businesses no matter the size”; and being a resource hub for businesses to provide economic information and training to Chamber members.

And during her tenure, she has been fortunate to see the Chamber membership grow over 500%, which is a true testament of the board members’ dedication and astounding leadership.

“It has been a pleasure and blessing being a part of the Chamber board and serving amongst the accomplished board members,” she said adding that she’s available to assist during the transitional time as Kuaea takes over the leadership position.

One of the many issues that Gurr fought as chairperson, during the COVID-19 pandemic, since early March of last year was her call on the Lolo Administration for a Chamber member on the COVID-19 Task Force. Former Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga had publicly stated during one of the many task force’s open meetings — which included the independent news media — that the task force is a member of the government panel.

When Gov. Lemanu Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga continued the task force upon taking office in January this year, he appointed Gurr, as a member of the task force, representing the private sector.

At last Wednesday’s task force news conference, Gurr who is president of the locally based Pago Pago Trading Company, was in attendance along with Kuaea, who has served as vice chair for three years.

“Things are progressing well with the Chamber and we are grateful for all of our Chamber members,” Kuaea said and expressed her gratitude to Gurr for the two years serving as chairperson of the board.

“Her diligence and her love for the business community has been inspiring and she has helped many business owners grow their business and survive during this pandemic,” Kuaea said of Gurr.

Kuaea welcomed the opportunity to serve as the new chairperson.