Twenty-four leaders from across the Pacific islands marked their graduation from the Graduate School USA’s Executive Leadership Development Program on August 18 in Saipan.
The diverse group of program participants represented the US-affiliated islands of American Samoa (4), the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (5), Guam (3), the Federated States of Micronesia National Government (3), Chuuk (1), Kosrae (1), Pohnpei (1), the Marshall Islands (4), and Palau (2).
The graduation featured program alumni, family, and friends joining in the celebration. KUAM News streamed the event live on Facebook, garnering viewership of over 5,000.
“Your achievements here today not only reflect your commitment to personal growth but your dedication to serving your governments and, more broadly, the Pacific region,” Carmen G. Cantor, Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs for the Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs, told the graduates. “I am proud that my office has been able to support this vital initiative.”
Speaking on behalf of their Executive Leadership Development Program (ELDP) Class of 2023 peers, Andy Choor and Geralyn Delacruz expressed their gratitude. “This program has taught us that the heart of leadership is serving people,” said Choor. Delacruz reflected, “the ELDP has helped us become better versions of ourselves.”
The graduation ceremony also featured congratulatory remarks from the numerous panelists and guest speakers who contributed to the program.
ELDP 2023 comprised a nine-month program with on-site sessions in Guam; Pohnpei, FSM; and Saipan, CNMI; as well as two virtual training sequences. ELDP program themes focus on “Leading Self,” “Leading Others,” “Leading Change,” and “Leading into the Future.”
With the graduation of the 2023 cohort, the ELDP alumni network has grown to 207 individuals across the Pacific and Virgin islands. ELDP graduates represent an extraordinary group of islanders with diverse professional backgrounds, exceptional personal qualities, and an enduring commitment to public service.
The Marshallese participants who graduated on Saipan are: Benjamin Wakefield, National Energy Office, Claret Chong Gum, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Jasmine Myazoe, Ministry of Finance, and Yetta Aliven, Office of the Chief Secretary.