U.S. Congressman Gregorio “Kilili” Camacho Sablan will deliver the keynote address at Northern Marianas College’s 43rd Commencement Exercise on Friday, May 17, 2024 at the Marianas High School Gymnasium.
“We are thrilled and grateful that Congressman Sablan has accepted our invitation to be our commencement speaker. His commitment to our community and his work on the Hill has increased Asian-American and Pacific Islander access to higher education that has given so many of today's graduates the opportunity to earn their degrees,” said Class Representative Gerald King-Crisostomo Jr.
Congressman Sablan, the first and only U.S. Representative from the Northern Mariana Islands, began his term on January 6, 2009, and has been reelected to office seven times. Congressman Camacho brings a distinguished public service and legislative leadership record to this year's commencement ceremony.
"We are honored to have Congressman Sablan share his insights and experiences with our graduates," said NMC President Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero. "His dedication to serving our community and his accomplishments in Congress serve as a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance."
As a member of the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Sablan has advocated for increased federal support for schools, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure projects within the Northern Mariana Islands. His legislative achievements have significantly impacted the quality of life and opportunities for residents of the Commonwealth.
Born on Saipan, Congressman Sablan's journey from the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to the halls of Congress exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to public service.
"Beyond his impressive legislative record in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and workforce development, his work to increase funding for NMC and other Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISI) makes him an exceptional choice to inspire and address our graduating class," said Dr. Deleon Guerrero.
The commencement ceremony, which will celebrate the achievements of over 300 graduates, will be streamed live on Northern Marianas College's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NMC.Proa
For more information about the 43rd NMC Commencement Ceremony and Northern Marianas College, please visit www.marianas.edu.