Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Nu’uuli Vocational Technical High School held its 36th Commencement Exercises last week Friday, June 13, 2025, at its school gymnasium. Known as the home of the Wildcats, NVTHS congratulated its graduates who chose the theme: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” - Eleanor Roosevelt.

The Department of Public Safety Guard posted the colors.

The ceremony began with a prayer from Reverend Fesoasoani Tualesolo Talo of the Ekalesia Katoliko, Nuuuli, who greeted special guests, Governor Pulaali’i N. Pula and First Lady Lois Phillips-Pula, Congresswoman Uifaatali Amata, ASDOE director Maefau Dr. Mary L. Taufete’e, and Rev. Mathew Failauga representative of the ASG Scholarship Board, and parents, family and friends of graduates.

Master of Ceremonies was Ms. Susana Kaisa, NVTHS Principal, who spoke to graduates about realizing their dreams, pointing to the return of Gov. Pulaali’i as an example of such manifestation. She noted that the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams, and that there are four virtues that contribute to that ‘beauty’. They are: your commitment, your dedication, your perseverance, as well as your patience. And with God’s guidance you can make it happen.

The keynote speaker, Gov. Pulaali’i followed with remarks, congratulating the Wildcat graduates, and spoke of the courage they will need to continue their journey into their futures. “You are the future of our government and island community,” he said. “Your hard work and ambition will shape the path forward for our territory.”  

“…I leave you with this quote: ‘Every morning you are given two choices: to continue to sleep with your dreams or to wake up and chase them. So let us wake up, chase your dreams and build your future.”

Top students were announced and their parents were also recognized.  Valedictorian honors went to Mr. Jireh Mauigoa; while, the Salutatorian award went to Ms. Miracle Tilomai Mao.

Of special note to the vocational technical school’s focus, the National Honor Technical Society students were recognized for their excellent performances.

ASDOE director Maefau Dr. Mary L. Taufete’e accepted the 76 graduates for confirmation of completing the requirements for their high school diploma.

The audience was asked to please not blast celebratory horns, such as the case that happened at Samoana High School’s graduation, where the governor had to step in to ask for quiet.

Turning of the Tassel, and announcement by the ASG Scholarship Board representative of its scholarship and financial aid recipients.

Rev. Talo prior to the closing prayer offered the following Bible verse to the graduates: “For wisdom enters your heart; knowledge fills you with joy; wise choices will watch over you; understanding will keep you safe.” Give thanks to your parents, to your teachers, to God — and appreciate the ‘learning’ you have so far achieved.