By Shauna Morato, KUAM News Intern

University of Guam and Guam Green Growth held their graduation ceremony for the fourth season of their Conservation Corps program.

Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio, members from the 37th Guam Legislature and acting Senior Vice President for UOG, Marlena Pangelinan shared heartfelt messages to honor the graduates.

The ceremony honored the 12 graduates from all walks of life, who dedicated five months to hands-on conservation and sustainability projects across the island. One graduate, Javen Cruz, spoke about the journey taken together by the cohort during these last few months.

“From finding innovative solutions to conserving water and energy to promoting eco-friendly practices within the community, our team has demonstrated unwavering dedication and teamwork,” said Cruz.

Highlighted was the work done by the cohort with over 13,000 pounds of trash collected, 135 pounds of locally grown produce harvested, 200 feet of erosion control devices prepared, 19 village roadside cleanups conducted, and much more.

During his speech, Graduate Thomas Benavente gave thanks to the program and the skills the cohort was able to hone with their work. He left his fellow graduates with some wise words as a send-off.

“We can’t control a lot of what goes on around us, but as we continue to focus on what wecan control, there will always be hope. We’ll put in the hard work today, to ensure we get to see tomorrow,” said Benavente.

Those within the program also have the chance to earn up to 80 continuing education credits from the UOG Global Learning and Engagement program and will receive a stipend.

Applications for the next Conservation Corps program will be open soon for more information you can visit guamgreengrowth.org.

Congratulations once again to all the graduates. In the words of acting Senior VP Marlena Pangelinan, “You are our hope for our island’s tomorrow.”