Four University of Guam students were awarded financial aid awards from the University of Guam Press as part of its first cycle of UOG Press Awards.

Each award honors the legacy of the author it represents and exemplifies UOG Press’s commitment to fostering scholarly excellence and cultural preservation by supporting students who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their respective fields.

The recipients of the 2025 UOG Press Awards are: 

Katielyn Aizon – Chris Perez Howard Future Author Award ($1,700)

The late Chris Perez Howard is the author of the novels, Juanit and Mariquita. His premier novel, Mariquita, is the most widely read novel about the CHamoru experience during World War II on Guam. This award is given to an English or Communications major with a minor in Writing who is committed to publishing stories that capture the experiences of the people of Guam or Micronesia.

Franklin Cruz Fujihira – Mike Laguåña Lancheru Award ($1,500)

The late Mike Laguåña is a celebrated CHamoru songwriter whose song "Kånta Babui" continues to be a popular and beloved kassi na kånta (teasing song) about a farmer's dedication to his pigs. This award is given to a student in the Department of Agriculture who demonstrates a deep commitment to sustainability in farming and agricultural practices.

Caleb Cruz – Clotilde Gould and Johnny Sablan CHamoru Studies Award ($1,500)

The late Clotilde Gould devoted her life to preserving the CHamoru language and culture through her roles as an educator, author, and dedicated advocate. Johnny Sablan is an acclaimed recording artist who has recorded more than 100 songs whose lifelong mission has been to keep the CHamoru culture alive through music. This award is given to a CHamoru Studies major who demonstrates a commitment to sustaining CHamoru traditions, language, and practices.

Francine Cruz – Dr. Bernadita Camacho-Dungca Place-Based Education Award ($1,500)

The late Dr. Bernadita "Benit" Camacho-Dungca was a lifelong educator and advocate for the perpetuation of CHamoru culture and language. Her seminal work Inifresi became Guåhan's pledge in 1998. This award is given to a student in the School of Education who demonstrates a strong commitment to place-based learning. 

Five students for each award were nominated with the support and assistance from the Deans and Department Chairs from the Department of English and Applied Linguistics, Department of CHamoru Studies, Department of Agriculture, and the School of Education.

Each awardee was then selected for their work ethic and academic excellence that set them apart from a competitive pool of applicants.