[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 76 (Thursday, May 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E861]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GUAM COMMUNITY COLLEGE

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. MADELEINE Z. BORDALLO

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 8, 2008

  Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
achievements of the Guam Community College (GCC) and to congratulate 
the institution on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. The Guam 
Community College, established in November 1977 by Guam Public Law 14-
77, became our premier institution for vocational, skilled trade and 
technical education when it assumed the programs and missions of its 
predecessor, the Trade and Technical High School and the Vocational 
High School of the Guam Department of Education.
  GCC's leadership at both secondary and post-secondary levels is 
realized through its offering of over 50 courses of study in vocational 
programs, adult and continuing education, community education, and 
short-term specialized training. Designed to target student populations 
within the Asia-Pacific Rim and the Micronesia region, GCC courses 
prepare students through job development and training based on 
community needs and trade demands.
  The small communities within the region, and the distance from 
mainland learning institutions, are contributing factors to the GCC's 
mission. With a diverse offering in curriculum and training programs, 
the college caters to these communities by offering ease of access to 
higher education. The main college campus, located in Mangilao, Guam, 
accommodates a population of 2,000 students. Off-campus and satellite 
options allow for distance learning, and on-campus courses equip 
students with expert and on-the-job training through partnerships with 
Guam businesses, organizations, and government entities. Through 
internships and apprenticeships, GCC has been successful in nurturing 
local talent to contribute to our island's economy.
  GCC maintains membership in the prestigious educational organizations 
of the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges, the 
Pacific Post-Secondary Educational Council, the Western Association of 
Schools and Colleges, and the League of Innovation for Community 
Colleges. Accreditation has been awarded by the Accrediting Commission 
for Community and Junior Colleges and by the Western Association of 
Schools and Colleges since 1979. Additionally, under the United States 
Vocational Education Act of 1946, 1963, and subsequent amendments, GCC 
has served as the State Board of Control for vocational education for 
Guam.
  GCC has been a consistent leader in the region for education. True to 
its mission to provide students with training for life-long learning, 
GCC offers opportunities for specialized learning through programs such 
as English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education, General 
Education Development (GED) preparation and testing, and an Adult High 
School Diploma.
  During this 30th anniversary, I join the people of Guam in 
recognizing the foresight and vision of GCC's past presidents: Dr. 
Herominiano delos Santos, John T. Cruz. Jose Ramos, Peter Nelson, Dr. 
Stanley B. Malkin, and Dr. John C. Salas. We also recognize the current 
and past chairs of the Board of Trustees: Gina Y. Ramos, Juan Tenorio, 
Charles Spero, Dr. Antonio Yamashita, Dr. John C. Salas, Richard 
Tennessen, Jose Munoz, Atanacio T. Diaz, Greg Perez, and Adolpho 
Sgambelluri. The vision of these individuals has culminated today into 
the leadership of president Mary Ann Y. Okada, vice president of 
academic affairs John R. Rider, Ed.D., and vice president of 
administrative services John C. Camacho.
  With the commitment, dedication, and leadership of Guam Community 
College's officers, board of trustees, faculty, and students, GCC has 
become a symbol of the possibilities that exist within our island and 
our region. The college blends the talent and expertise of our 
government agencies, businesses and industries, community groups, and 
technical training establishments on Guam. These valuable and strategic 
partnerships have increased trade and technical capabilities in the 
community leading to greater opportunities and success for its students 
and our islands.
  On behalf of the people of Guam, I would like to recognize the 30 
years of education and community service of the Guam Community College. 
I commend and congratulate them on this milestone anniversary.

                          ____________________