Through her long journey as a public servant, Dr. Katherine Aguon became the first Chamorro woman to receive a doctoral degree, receiving hers from the University of California at Berkeley. Dr. Aguon was also the first female to become vice-speaker during her first term in the 14th Guam Legislature and served as a senator for two terms. She retired from her position as the administrator of the Division of Research, Publication and Training for the Department of Chamorro Affairs.


She is known for her guidance and leadership in promoting the preservation of the Chamorro language and has published several books that focus on teaching Guam's indigenous tongue and the island's rich history and culture. Dr. Aguon stated at a retirement ceremony held in her honor Wednesday afternoon in Adelup, "Now I am going to catch up on all the time I have missed with my family, they were there for me from the beginning and are here with me now, at the end of a long career."


Acting governor Mike Cruz presented Dr. Aguon with the Guahan Award for her commitment to the island and its people.