2023 - 2024 Annual Report

Last month, we released our 2023 - 2024 Annual Report. We hope you take the time to see what we've been up to. Click here to view report.

Please send any feedback you may have to pchs@amsamoa.edu.

Excerpt from the Letter from our State Director, Tafaimamao Tua-Tupuola:

"Since the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) rebranding in January 2024, the Pacific Center Reimagine the journey ahead with a different lens for our disability community. We recreate strategies in recognizing challenges as opportunities, barriers as possibilities, and experiences to transform with innovative solutions."

Get ready for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). This annual event takes place to raise awareness and highlight the importance of the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all areas of our communities. Stay tuned for our next issue or follow us on Facebook to find out about the upcoming events and activities to celebrate together.

Welcome Laurenthia Baker

A warm welcome to the newest addition to the Pacific Center in Human Security staff, Money Follows the Person (MFP) Project Director Laurenthia Baker. We are so glad you have joined the team. It has already been a joy to work with you in your first month.

Introducing our iEM Scholars

We are excited to finally introduce our 2024 - 2026 inclusive-Emergency Management (iEM) Scholars. Our diverse group of trainees is ready to pave the way for the future of the program as well as in the field.

Click here to meet them all.

Here are a few testimonies from the cohort:

"After my first semester as an inclusive-Emergency Management (iEM) trainee, I love the training and learning outside the classroom aspects of the program, working closely with local departments and agencies like the Department of Homeland Security, Red Cross, and the National Weather Service Office. I am excited and cannot express how many opportunities this program has already opened up for me and my peers. Most importantly, the program has helped me to discover my calling and desire to help people, especially our most vulnerable community members. And that is why iEM is such a great program."

Levalefaiva Malala, iEM Scholar

"I’ve learned a lot about how important it is to include everyone when planning for disasters. I didn’t realize how many different groups of people can be affected in different ways, whether because of their disability, income, race, or where they live. It made me think more about how we respond to emergencies and why we need to do a better job of ensuring everyone gets the help they need. Since the start of this program, it has helped me to see these issues more clearly, and now I’m even more motivated to work toward creating a fairer and more inclusive emergency response system."

Deliberty Vaeao, iEM Scholar

Extension for Order of the Sword and Shield Application

The newest National Honor Society at the American Samoa Community College has extended the deadline for applications to Friday, February 14.

ASCC Students majoring in the following programs are encouraged to apply:

• Criminal Justice
• Cyber Security
• Homeland Security
• inclusive-Emergency Management
• Political Science
• Pre-Law
• Information Communication Technology.

See the ASCC student flyer here and click here for more info and application.

ASCC alumni who have graduated within the last three years in the above degree program areas and who meet the eligibility requirements can also apply.

ASCC students and alumni, please submit your unofficial transcript requests and $2.50 to the Records Office as soon as possible if you intend to meet the deadline.

Working Professionals in the security studies-related fields are also welcome to apply. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of a National Honor Society that highlights the important work you do for the territory and the nation.

See working professional flyer here and click here for more info and application.

Invest in yourself for just $75 for a lifetime membership to this prestigious and well-respected organization that will give you access to financial scholarships, grants, and more!



Billing & Coding Course

Another Money Follows the Person initiative comes through in collaboration with our local health data partners for medical billing and coding. The partnership helps elevate the credentials and equip our local health data professionals. The course will be delivered by the accredited, industry-leading professional coders academy, AAPC.

PCHS | pchs@amsamoa.edu | (684) 699 - 2722 ext. 4202