Poblete is among just 55 students selected nationwide from more than 700 applicants and is the only recipient from a U.S. territory outside of Puerto Rico this year.

“This recognition is not just an achievement — it’s a responsibility,” Poblete said. “Being named a Truman Scholar means being a model for aspiring students who want to serve Guam in the near future.”

Established by Congress in 1975, the Truman Scholarship supports students committed to leadership in government and nonprofit sectors through funding for graduate study, leadership development, and public service opportunities.

Representing Guam

For Poblete, the honor carries deep meaning beyond personal accomplishment.

“Representing Guam on this national stage matters because we are an island of 170,000 people compared to the millions on the mainland,” he said. “Being recognized as a Truman Scholar sends a message that we can achieve when given the same opportunities as anyone else, even when geography limits access.”

At UOG, Poblete has paired his academic studies with hands-on experience in public service through his work with the Office of Senator Vincent Borja. He credits his education, mentors, and family for shaping his commitment to serving the island. 

“I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned directly to our local government so that we, as a community, can come together and address problems that have gone unresolved for far too long,” he said.

A commitment to public service

Poblete’s passion for public service is rooted in everyday acts of helping others — from community outreach to small gestures of kindness.

“Every time I did something that impacted my community, the gratitude and love I received pushed me to do more,” he said. “Showing up and doing good — that’s what public service is.”

Looking ahead, Poblete is focused on tackling some of Guam’s most pressing challenges, including political status, access to healthcare, affordability, sustainability, and opportunities for future generations.

“These aren’t small issues,” he said, “but they’re the ones that keep me going on how to move forward.”

University of Guam President Anita Borja Enriquez praised Poblete’s achievement and the example he sets for students across the island.

“Caden represents the very best of the University of Guam — a student deeply committed to service, leadership, and the future of our island,” Enriquez said. “His recognition as a Truman Scholar reflects not only his dedication and potential, but also the strength of our students and their ability to lead at the national level.”

Dr. Mary Kate Soliva, Assistant Professor of Public Administration and Criminal Justice and UOG’s Truman Scholarship representative, highlighted the dedication required to reach this milestone.

“The Truman Scholarship process is rigorous and highly competitive, and Caden distinguished himself through his authenticity, leadership, and commitment to public service, “Being selected as the sole Truman Scholar from the U.S. territories beyond Puerto Rico highlights and ensures our communities are part of shaping the future of public service.”

A legacy of Truman Scholars

Poblete joins a distinguished legacy of Truman Scholars from the University of Guam, which was established in 1952 during the presidency of Harry S. Truman. Since 1978, UOG has produced 23 Truman Scholars, reflecting the university’s longstanding commitment to developing leaders in public service.

Recent recipients include Grace Anne Dela Cruz (2025), Julie Ann Laxamana (2024), and Christian Gyles Ramos (2023), among others who have gone on to serve Guam and the broader region. Nehemiah Villanueva, a junior accounting major and political science minor, was also named a Truman finalist this year.

Looking ahead

As he prepares for the opportunities ahead, Poblete remains focused on giving back to the community that shaped him.

“It’s about reaffirming that the people of Guam do exist — that although we are small, we are equal, and we are not afraid of the moment,” he said. “It's about advocating for things that many wouldn't, confronting the structures we currently live within, and figuring out how to move forward. I want to take everything I’ve been given and learned and bringing it back home.”