COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER

His Excellency Surangel S. Whipps, Jr.
President of the Republic of Palau

Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. is the 10th President of the Republic of Palau, currently serving in the 12th Constitutional Government after being re-elected for a second term in the general election held on November 5, 2024. President Whipps remains steadfast in his commitment to improving the lives of Palauan citizens and advancing the nation's interests on the global stage.

As he leads the nation forward, President Whipps continues to uphold the principle of “A Kot a Rechad er Belau”—ensuring that Palauans benefit from the resources and opportunities of their own nation. He draws deep inspiration from the legacy of his father, Rekemesik Surangel Whipps, Sr., a respected statesman known for his efforts to increase the minimum wage, strengthen Palau’s economic prospects, and protect the nation’s marine resources. Rekemesik Whipps was instrumental in the “Save Palau” movement, which advocated against unfair labor practices, limited local career opportunities, the challenges faced by young Palauan entrepreneurs, and the exploitation of Palau’s natural assets.

Upon assuming office in his first term in 2021, President Whipps prioritized public health and economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration focused on restoring the tourism sector, protecting the environment, and bringing international attention to the existential threats posed by climate change and ocean pollution. He also led efforts to diversify Palau’s economy through technology and negotiated key provisions of the economic assistance component of the Compact of Free Association.

Now at the beginning of his second term, President Whipps is committed to continuing the progress made in improving public health, safety, education, and related infrastructure. His administration is expanding Palau’s tourism markets, a strategy that is beginning to yield positive results with increased visitor numbers and new international routes—such as Qantas' new service between Brisbane and Palau.

Major capital improvement projects under his leadership include the construction and renovation of educational facilities, the development of a new national hospital, completion of a modern Division of Corrections facility, construction of a new fishing port, and enhancements to Palau’s solar energy storage capacity to provide more reliable clean energy. Further investments are being made in roads, water systems, and power lines to support infrastructure growth, particularly in northern Palau.

Palau is the current chair for the Alliance of Small Island States. Next year, Palau will chair the Pacific Islands Forum. These two regional leadership positions provide an opportunity to promote ongoing efforts of Palau and other Pacific nations to address environmental and developmental challenges, including protecting the world’s oceans from pollution and other harmful activities. 

President Whipps brings over 30 years of experience in business management. Prior to his presidency, he served as CEO of Surangel & Sons Company, transforming it from a small retail store into a diversified enterprise employing more than 600 people. His dedication to community service is evident through his active participation in numerous civic organizations.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Economics from Andrews University in Michigan and an MBA from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

A devoted Seventh-day Adventist, President Whipps lives by the values passed down by his father—building a God-centered home, prioritizing family, maintaining a strong work ethic, and promoting the importance of education.