18 students from 6 majors receive NextGen Scholarships

18 students from 6 majors receive NextGen Scholarships

18 students from 6 majors receive NextGen Scholarships


10/30/2025

A student holding a slug in a research lab

Eighteen University of Guam students have been awarded scholarships through the NextGen COMPASS program, a national initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food & Agriculture.

The COMPASS program is part of a broader national effort to strengthen the pipeline of talent entering careers in the agricultural sciences, particularly where food security, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management are pressing concerns.

“These scholarships are a significant investment in our students and their futures,” said Dr. Kate Moots, NextGen COMPASS project director. “They not only provide financial support, but also open doors to research opportunities, mentorship, and career development in fields that are vital to Guam and the broader Pacific region.”

Fall 2025 Awardees:

  • Adriann Alfons, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Paul Bartolome, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Xyne Brel, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Kiana Camacho, Integrative Biology
  • David Deavonie, Business Administration
  • Ale’a Duenas, Integrative Biology
  • Adriane Fronda, Integrative Biology
  • Ji Yeop Han, Health Science
  • Sean Hebel, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Tadashi Hiura, Integrative Biology
  • Kiaza Rose Jerao, Chemistry
  • Joanalynn Johnny, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Adrian Jay Manalang, Civil Engineering
  • Decklin Mendiola, Health Science
  • Ricardo Mendoza, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Shaquille Nimea, Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Kaitlyn Punzalan, Biology
  • Zyrhese Santos, Integrative Biology

The NextGen program emphasizes support for first-generation college students and those from resource-limited communities, aligning with UOG’s mission of expanding access to higher education and empowering local leaders in science and agriculture.

In addition to financial assistance, scholarship recipients will participate in academic enrichment activities, including internships, research projects, and professional development workshops. These experiences are designed to prepare students for advanced studies and careers in USDA-related fields.

Apply for the next round of scholarships