Speaker's Weekly Address: March 14

Celebrating 60 years of excellence in higher education.  Biba UOG! Biba Guahan! 

 

My Dear People of Guam,

Buenas yan Hafa Adai.  As residents of the Marianas, we have so much to appreciate. In addition to being a peaceful, hospitable, and family-oriented people on a beautiful island, we should take a step back to reflect and appreciate how our island has progressed over the years. 

And as we survey what factors contributed to the growth and prosperity of our island and the region for that matter, we will come to conclude that the University of Guam has played a significant role.  Over the decades UOG has helped to produce an educated and professional class of residents who work in our hotels, patrol our streets, teach our children, and who save and sustain lives.  Collectively, each and every day, UOG alum, faculty, staff, and their extended network improve our lives in a positive way.

As an alumna of UOG, I encourage you to join me and other proud graduates and associates of our fine university to support UOG in celebrating its 60th anniversary.  Let us show our appreciation of UOG for its contribution to the body of knowledge through published scholarly articles, for its role in informing the public discourse through conferences, and for enhancing our appreciation of theatre, music, and the visual arts.

Set aside some time this year to show your gratitude to UOG for its contribution in a very real and tangible way to making a difference on Guam and throughout the region for the better.  For example, the University of Guam has produced graduates who have returned home to lead and give back to their communities. Countless more have stayed on Guam to work for our government or in the private sector, some of whom have prospered in the business and who employ people on Guam. 

I commend Dr. Robert Underwood, the UOG faculty, and hardworking staff who helped to make the University of Guam a highly productive and financially sustainable institution.  The Board of Regents, UOG Foundation, and UOG Alumni Association are to be lauded for taking the bold step to launch a $30 million capital campaign in order that we may benefit from a 21st century campus ready to accommodate 5,000 students on campus.  UOG… know that I Stand With You, side by side and every step of the way. 

On behalf of the Guam Legislature and the People of Guam, Happy 60^th Birthday!  Biba UOG  and Biba Guam!

Saina Ma'ase.