Members of the University of Guam community gathered at Adelup on Feb. 21 as Acting Gov. Joshua Tenorio and Acting Lt. Gov. Tina Muña Barnes signed a proclamation declaring March 12, 2019, as University of Guam Charter Day and March 10–16, 2019, as University of Guam Charter Week. This year marks the 51^st anniversary of the signing of the charter that renamed the Territorial College of Guam to the University of Guam and the 67^th anniversary of the founding of the institution.

“This year’s theme is Para Hulo’,” said Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Anita Enriquez at the signing, “and Para Hulo’ represents our ever upward path toward excellence. Within the UOG seal, ‘excelsior’ is embedded in it. We strive for excellence continuously.”

Student Government Association President Evander De Guzman read the proclamation, which recognized that UOG has conferred more than 18,075 degrees through 15 master’s and 25 bachelor’s programs since its founding. These students have gone on to serve as the foundation of the island’s and region’s professional workforce, strengthening the economy, the proclamation reads.

Tenorio specifically highlighted the Center for Island Sustainability in working with the administration on environmental policy toward protecting the coral reefs and sustainability.

“We’re a big, big fan of the work that is going on there,” he said. “… I would encourage the University to continue its efforts in the research and publication areas so that we can get more competitive money from the National Science Foundation to continue the research efforts in Guam.”

He also highlighted the work of UOG’s Cooperative Extension & Outreach service in mapping socioeconomic data.

“We want to move the government into a data-driven decision-making model, and we’ve been talking with the Bureau of Statistics & Plans and the Guam Economic Development Authority to look for opportunities to engage the University and help enrich and expand its research side of the house.”

UOG’s 51^st Charter Day celebration is an all-day event opening to the community, beginning at 9 a.m. on March 12. For more information, visit the Charter Day 2019 page.