“At the end of the day, the University of Guam's purpose is to provide for the people of Guam the workforce, the professionals, the human resources that can run our government, our private sectors, our nonprofit organizations, our religious organizations,” said Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, adding later: “Without UOG, we cannot grow our economy, we cannot lift the lives of our people.” 

She spoke during the Charter Day opening ceremony and signed a proclamation recognizing the 55 years since UOG received its charter as a university.

Sen. Amanda Shelton said UOG has had an amazing ride, having produced nearly 20,000 graduates and degree holders over the decades. 

“We're here once again to thank all of you for your hard work in continuing to educate our people, and the people of our region, and to encourage you to continue this work so that we, together, may build a better and stronger Guam,” Sen. Shelton said. 

President Thomas W. Krise said the opportunities for UOG students and alumni “are as bright as ever in fields like health care, accounting, engineering entrepreneurship, behavioral health, business and public administration, environmental and regulatory fields.”

“A university degree is not only a change maker but it’s also an equalizer – leveling the playing field and providing opportunities for students’ families,” said Senior Vice President and Provost Anita Borja Enriquez. 

Board of Regents Chair Liza J. Provido recognized faculty and administrators: “Your dedication and loyalty are beyond reproach and simply immeasurable over these last years, keeping focused on maintaining excellent academic standards.”