WILMER JOEL
Thirteen students from the College of the Marshall Islands bachelor’s in education program were honored at a dinner celebration earlier this month. The students are the sixth cohort to complete the program. Witnesses to the event included educators, friends, family, administrators from both public and private schools, and instructors at CMI.
CMI instructor Alvin Page thanked the students’ practicum advisor for fostering a learning environment and advancing education in the RMI. “Your guidance exceeds the curriculum,” he said. “Together, let’s empower the educators of tomorrow.”
Dr. Elizabeth Switaj, the interim president of the college, described the future graduates as among the nation’s most qualified educators. “You’ll help students grow as you grow together,” she said. “Congratulations with all your hard work that has gotten you here.”
The graduating class spokesperson, Philip Joutha, expressed gratitude to everyone who attended. “Thank you for seeing the potential in us,” he said. “We were born to make a change.”
The end of the program saw the sixth cohort use songs and gumball leis to show their appreciation. It is anticipated that they will receive their degree on May 30, the day of the college’s commencement ceremony in 2024.
The graduates are: BAEE Cohort 6 Graduating Class John Aine, Phillip Joutha, Mary Silk, Taina Meime, Edgar Jetto, Luluann Samuel, Cheerlyn Balos, Likaki Lakjohn, Tarbine Paul, Voice Dako, Faith Lanwi, Natasha Note and Tilang Jorlang.