Sitting from Left to Right (front row) Dr. David Newnham, CMI President, Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President of COM-FSM,Vice chair of COMLG Board of Regents to the FSM, Suzanna L. Gallen, Chairman of the Board of Regents, Dr. Emais Roberts of Palau, newly elected Board of Regents, Hon. Gerald Zakios of RMI and Dr. Patrick Telley, presidents of PCC. The rest are central office administration personnel and partner college CRE Vice Presidents and program coordinators.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on March 20, 2025, the appointment of Dr. Jaye L. Hamby as the Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). As Director, Dr. Hamby will lead USDA’s efforts to advance agricultural innovation, community outreach, and fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Dr. Jaye L. Hamby, NIFA Director ( picture credit: NIFA)

News source credit : www.usda.gov; Press Release Release No. 0059.25

From Feb 24th to Feb 28th, an administrative delegation from the COM LGP central office comprised of the Executive Director, Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) Associate Director and Cooperative Extension Services (CES) Associate Director visited Kosrae state to meet with Honorable Governor Tulensa W. Palik, Director Rolner L. Joe of the Department of Resources and Economic Affairs (DREA), Director Bruno Ned of Fisheries, private clam farmer Mr. Martin Selech and the COM-FSM Kosrae campus Cooperative Research & Extension (CRE) team. The primary purpose of this visit was to discuss further and expose the COM LGP system, its specific programs, and operations to key stakeholders in the state of Kosrae, as well as build collaborative and partnership efforts to improve and maximize delivery outcomes and impacts in food security, health, and economic development in the communities as well as to conduct needs assessment.

Dr. Kay K. Soe (aquaculture researcher), Mee Mee (agriculture researcher), Kenye Killin (Kosrae CRE Coordinator) Back L-R: Dr. Manoj Nair (AES Associate Director), Engly Ioanis (CES Associate Director), Stanley Lorennij (Executive Director) and the Honorable Governor Tulensa W. Palik.

On January 2, 2025, Hon. Gerald Zackios has been sworn as the RMI Minster of Education replacing current RMI Education Minister, Hon. Joe Bejang. As RMI Minster of Education, Hon. Minster, Gerald Zackios automatcially becomes the RMI representative of the College of Micronesia Land Grant Board and will serve as the Board Tressurer / Secretary. COM Land Grant Program welcomes Hon Minister Gerald Zackios.

New Cabinet Minister Hon. Gerald Zackios, left, takes the oath of office administered by RMI High Court Chief Justice Carl Ingram. Photo credit : (Marshall Islands Journal)

On December 6, 2024, the Board of Regents for the College of Micronesia Land Grant Program held its 1st quarterly meeting for FY25 in Yap State FSM, at the Early Childhood Education Center (ECE). Attending the meeting were the Executive Director and three administrative staff members from the COM Land Grant Program, along with the presidents of the three partner colleges: Palau Community College (PCC), the College of Micronesia – Federated States of Micronesia (COM-FSM), and the College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) joining in virtually via zoom conference. 

Sitting front row left to right: Dr. Theresa Koroibulaono, President of COM-FSM, Dr. Emais Roberts, Chairman of the Board and Governor of Pelleieu and Vice Chair Suzanne L. Gallen. Standing behind Dr. Theresa is PCC President Dr. Patrick Tellei. The rest are central office administration, partner college CRE Vice Presidents, program coordinators, researchers, extension agents and other support staff.

The College of Micronesia’s Land Grant Program (COM LGP), in partnership with the Pohnpei State Offices of Resources and Development (R&D) and the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA), recently conducted a two-day trainer’s training on sea cucumber processing led by Mr. Masaya Miyazaki of Ama Cho, Japan, on Tue Nov 26^th and Wed Nov 27^th. The event took place at COM LGP Program hatchery facility in Nett Point. The main focus of this training was to train selected key trainers on how to process sea cucumbers, particularly the sandfish that’s being hatched by aquaculture researcher Dr. Manoj Nair and his aquaculture research team at the experimentation station at Nett Point. Ultimately after the trainers satisfactorily complete the training, they would then provide the same training in each of their communities with the goal of promoting food security, health and economic development throughout.

The 2-day training program commenced with an opening ceremony at the research station in Nett Point where Master of Ceremony R&D Director Mark Kostka called to order the event and gave his brief welcome remark by acknowledging and thanking the dignitaries including Pohnpei State Governor Stevenson Joseph along with other diplomatic representatives such as the Deputy Chief of Mission from the U.S. Embassy to the FSM, and the Ambassador of Japan to the FSM. In his opening remarks, the Governor expressed his sincerest gratitude to both the Ambassador and the Deputy Chief of Mission for their ongoing support and steadfast contributions, providing a vital role in capacity-building efforts for economic development in the Micronesian region.

Group Pictured from left to Right – Pohnpei State R&D Director, Dr. Mr. Mark Kostka, Japan Ambassador to the FSM, H.E. Mr. Nobuo Kagomiya, Mr. Masaya Miyazaki of Ama Cho, Japan, Pohnpei State Governor, Honorable Stevenson Joseph, U.S. Embassy Charge’ d’affaires, Mr. Vincent Mut-Tracy, COM LG Associate Director (AES), DR. Manoj Nair, and Administrator Jorg Anson of the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture.

On September 26, 2024, the College of Micronesia Land Grant Program Board of Regents conducted its 2024 4^th quarter Board meeting in Kosrae state at the COM-FSM Kosrae campus. The Executive Director, along with 3 COM Land Grant Program administrative staff, the three partner college Presidents of Palau Community College (PCC), College of Micronesia – Federated States of Micronesia (COM-FSM) and the College of the Marshall Islands (CMI), the three partner college Cooperative Research & Extension (CRE) Vice Presidents, COM-FSM’s Kosrae campus CRE Coordinator, several of COM-FSM’s CRE researchers, extension and support staff participated in the Board meeting. The core highlights of the meeting were focused on results of the previous directives from the Board meeting in Chuuk back in April, various agenda items including the approval of minutes, budget updates, policies, resolutions, investment performance and quarterly progress reports from the central office and the CRE Vice Presidents. The BOR also paid courtesy visits to the Kosrae state Governor’s and lieutenant Governor’s offices and the legislature where formalities and general discussions were held. The Board meeting concluded with a combined reception with the COM-FSM Board of Regents and the COM-FSM Kosrae campus faculty, support staff, Kosrae campus CRE personnel and honored guests including the governor and the first lady.

Group Pictured from left to Right – wearing lei’s: COMFSM President, Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, CMI acting President, Dr. Elizabeth Swijaj, COM Land Grant Board of Regent, Dr. Emais Robert of Palau, Board of Regent, Vice Chair, Suzanne Gallen from the FSM, CRE Vice President Dr. Adedayo Akinade Ogunmokun of CMI. PCC President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei, PCC Vice President CRE, Dr. Christopher Kitalong, COMLG Central Office, Executive Directory Mr. Stanley Lorennij and Board of Regent, Minister Joe Bejang of CMI along with COMLand Grant researchers and staffs of the the three partner Colleges.

On August 15, 2024, COM Land Grant Executive Director Stanley Lorennij, accompanied by Aquaculture Chief Scientist and Director Dr. Manoj Nair along with Senior Extension Agent Engly Ioanis, paid a courtesy visit to Kolonia Town’s Mayor Honorable Kummer S. Biza at the Kolonia Townhall. 

The purpose of the visit was to reiterate proposals from the previous Kolonia Town Mayor’s administration regarding COM land grant initiatives. These included sidewalk maintenance, improvements to drainage in the current sidewalk drainage plan, and the establishment of staff parking spaces along the road adjacent to the COM land grant building. Additionally, pedestrian safety crosswalks on secondary roads leading to Dainy Street and across from the COM land grant office were also part of the discussions. 

Mayor Kummer S. Biza welcomed these proposals and tasked his Administrative Officer, Mr. Master Albert, to take the initiative in assisting the COM Land Grant with these projects. The meeting also touched on the honorable Mayor’s office’s plans for the implementation of urban farming within his jurisdiction, for which they sought support from the COM Land Grant.

Executive Director Lorennij expressed his excitement regarding this initiative, noting that food security, economic development, and health are part of the COM Land Grant’s mandate. He affirmed the organization’s readiness to partner in this effort. He further advised that grants are available for urban farming projects and that specific documents needed to be filled out for review and submission for these grants.

Pictured from left to Right: Mayor Kummer S. Biza, Sr, Extension Agent Mr. Engly Ioanis, Kolonia Town Administrative Officer Mr. Master Halbert, COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij, and Chief Scientist Dr. Manoj Nair

On August 2, 2024, the COM Land Grant Executive Director  Stanley Lorennij along with Director and Aquaculture Chief Scientist Dr. Manoj Nair met with Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President of COM-FSM, at the National Campus in Palikir, Pohnpei, FSM.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the current status of the sea cucumber project, the hatchery facility at Nett Point, and its lease agreement with the Pohnpei Port Authority, which is due for renewal by the end of this month, as well as possibilities of a transition of the aquaculture facility and its two aquaculture technicians to the COM-FSM CRE aquaculture program in anticipation of the arrival of the new aquaculture researcher for the COM-FSM CRE aquaculture program. Dr. Koroivulaono expressed strong support for this direction and looks forward to further planning and initiations between the two institutions.  

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, Dr. Manoj Nair, Aquaculture Chief Scientist, and Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President of the College of Micronesia FSM, on August 2, 2024.

On July 30, 2024, Hyunjeong Lee, who is currently managing the FSM Department of Education (FSM DOE) Skills and Employability Enhancement project, paid a courtesy visit to the College of Micronesia Land Grant program Central Office in Pohnpei and met with Executive Director Stanley Lorennij and the administration team to discuss and explore potential partnership and collaboration avenues to continue developing a robust support system for the SEE project in terms of high school curriculum developments and improvements in agriculture and other CTE fields and industries, master trainers/teachers, funding, etc.  After more than an hour of discussions, the executive director and Hyunjeong Lee wrapped up the meeting in good faith and understanding. In the end, the executive director indicated that the COM LG program supports the SEE project and will provide support wherever possible.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, Mr. Betson Ifamilik, Land Grant CITO, Mr. Engly Ioanis, Sr. Extension Agent/Program, Ms. Hyunjeong Lee, FSM DOE representative, and Lerihna Lebehn Johnson, Executive Secretary, COM/BOR on July 30, 2024.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij, on behalf of the COM Board of Regents and the COM Central Office staff, honored retiring long-term employees at a simple retirement function at Red Snapper restaurant in Kolonia, Pohnpei, FSM, on June 7, 2024.

The two retiring COM employees are Mrs. Haraline Ramirez, Secretary to the Executive Director, and Mr. Ricardo Vera Cruz, Business Manager.

Mrs. Harline Ramirez has worked for COM for 44 years. She started in November 1980 as Clerk Typist III and was promoted to Executive Secretary to the Executive Director and the COM Board of Regents. At the end of her contract, Mrs. Harline Ramirez will retire in September 2024.

Mr. Ricardo Vera Cruz has worked for COM for 39 years as the budget Manager. He started in 1986 as the Budget Officer, and later, his position was re-classified as Budget Officer. Mr. Ricardo Vera Cruz continued in the same position until he retired in April 2024. Mr. Doman Daoas, the current CFO, has taken his place.

A simple retirement function was organized at Red Snapper restaurant to facilitate long-term service for the two retiring employees. Traditional handicrafts were used to facilitate the event, and the retirees were given a plaque containing the signed COM Board of Regents Resolution thanking them for their service.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Doman Daoas, CFO, COM; Mrs. Margaret Weital, EFNEP Coordinator, COM; Mr. Ricardo Vera Cruz, retired Business Manager and Mr.Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM Land Grant at the retirement facilitation function in Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM, on June 7, 2024.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Doman Daoas, CFO, COM; Mrs. Margaret Weital, EFNEP Coordinator, COM; Mrs. Haraline Ramirez, retired Executive Secretary and Mr.Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM Land Grant at the retirement facilitation function in Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM, on June 7, 2024.

A few selected pictures from the retirement function are posted below :

College of Micronesia Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and staff thank the College of Micronesia Board of Regents for supporting the retirement function.

Dr. Cheng Sheng Lee, Director of Center for Tropical and Subtropical Aquaculture (CTSA, USDA), paid a courtesy visit to the College of Micronesia Central Office in Pohnpei on June 8, 2024. Dr Lee was on an island-hopping mission to get recent updates on the aquaculture situation in the RMI and FSM. Dr. Lee congratulated ED Stanley on his new role as the Executive Director for the COM. Dr. Lee and ED Stanley discussed different topics pertaining to aquaculture in the region. Dr. Lee explained to ED Stanley about the CTSA Programs and funding opportunities. He further invited ED Stanley to take up the vacant COM Land Grant position at the CTSA Board of Directors. ED Stanley thanked him for the offer and let Dr. Lee know that he will discuss this offer with the COM Board of Regents in their next meeting.

Executive Director Stanley, Chief Scientist and Director of COM Aquaculture Program, Dr. Manoj Nair gave an updated overview of COM Aquaculture programs in the Micronesian region while senior extension agent Engly Ioanis highlighted the need and importance of sustainable feed for livestock. Dr. Lee and ED Stanley agreed to work on a comprehensive MOU between COM and CTSA for the efficient utilization of resources between the two USDA organizations to prevent wastage and duplication of efforts.

Pictured from left to Right: Executive Director Lorennij, S, Ioanis, E, Dr. Cheng Sheng Lee and Dr. Nair meeting at the COM Central Office in Kolonia, Pohnpei FSM, on June 8, 2024.

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) extramural grant funding agency for agricultural research, education, and Extension programs. A senior seven-member NIFA delegation under the leadership of Dr. Dionne Toombs, NIFA Associate Director for Programs, visited the Republic of Palau State to attend the four-day Conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) in Koror State, Republic of Palau from April 27 to May 3, 2024. A report of the same was recently posted on The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) website. A screengrab of the published news article and the link for the original article on the APLU website are given below.

Supporting the Pacific Islands’ Land-grant Universities – APLU

The conference was coordinated by a joint team from the College of Micronesia Land Grant Program under Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and the senior leadership of PCC, including COM Board of Regent Chair Dr. Emais Roberts, PCC President Dr. Patrick Tellei and Dr. Christopher Kitalong, Vice President PCC CRE.

College of Micronesia wishes to thank Kim Scotto, Senior Associate, Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resources (FANR) Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) for sharing this article.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and CFO Doman Daoas made a courtesy visit to Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President, COM-FSM, at her office in COM-FSM, National Campus in Palikir, Pohnpei, FSM on June 5, 2024.

The primary purpose of this visit was to hand over a COM check of $30,000 to further support the COM-FSM Resident Instruction. In addition, Executive Director Stanley and President Dr. Theresa discussed various topics, including upgrading education for the COM Land Grant CRE Extension Agents from AA to Bachelor and Bachelor to Masters. Dr. Theresa informed Executive Director Stanley about the proposed MOU COM-FSM, which it will soon be signing with the University of Guam to provide a Hybrid Bachelor of Agriculture Science program. Dr. Theresa further offered tailor-made classes for the CRE staff to upgrade their primary language and math skills at the CETEC Campus in Pohnpei and online for other CRE staff in other FSM States.

Pictured from left to Right: Doman Daoas, CFO, COM; Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President COM-FSM; and Mr. Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM Land Grant. Executive Director Stanley is handing Dr. Theresa a check for the COM-FSM Resident Instruction program at the COM-FSM President’s office in Palikir, Pohnpei FSM, on June 4, 2024.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM Land Grant; Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President COM-FSM and Doman Daoas, CFO, COM meeting at the COM-FSM President’s office in Palikir, Pohnpei FSM, on June 4, 2024.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij met with the new Director of Pohnpei State Resources and Development, Mr. Mark Kostka, at the COM Central office on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. At the onset of the meeting, Executive Director Stanley Lorennij congratulated Director Mark Kostka on his new position as the Director of Resources and Development, Pohnpei State. The two Directors further discussed varied topics of mutual interest. Director Stanley Lorennij assured Director Mark Kostka of COM Land Grant’s full support for successfully implementing the Pohnpei State Food Security Plan developed by the Pohnpei State Department of Resources and Development. Dr. Manoj Nair, the Acting Associate Director for AES, also attended the meeting and provided Director Mark Kostka with an update on the hatchery-based Sea cucumber aquaculture efforts by COM Land Grant in Pohnpei State.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM; Mr. Mark Kostka, Director, Pohnpei State Department of Resources & Development at the College of Micronesia Central office May 28, 2024.

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) extramural grant funding agency for agricultural research, education, and Extension programs. A senior seven-member NIFA delegation under the leadership of Dr. Dionne Toombs, NIFA Associate Director for Programs, visited the Republic of Palau State to attend the four-day Conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) in Koror State, Republic of Palau from April 27 to May 3, 2024.

In addition to the NIFA team, the four-day conference was attended by Mrs. Doreen Hauser-Lindstorm, Executive Director of the Western Extension Director’s Association (WEDA), Dr. Bret W. Hess, Executive Director of the Western Association of Agriculture Experiment Station Directors (WAAESD), Dr. Douglas Steele, VP of Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resources, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, and Dr. Paul Lewin, Executive Director of the Western Rural Development Center (WRDC).

Delegations from sister Land Grant Institutions in the region, namely: University of Hawaii at Manoa Cooperative Extension, Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension and Education Services, University of Guam, College of Natural & Applied Sciences, America Samoa Community College, Agriculture, Community, and Natural Resources Division. Representatives of the College of Micronesia-FSM and the College of the Marshall Islands also participated in the conference.

The conference’s main focus was highlighting the College of Micronesia Land Grant program activities through the cooperating partner colleges and the impacts of those regional programs. Furthermore, the NIFA team and others from relevant agencies were made aware of the issues and challenges faced by the College of Micronesia Land Grant programs in the Micronesia region.

The conference was coordinated by a joint team from the College of Micronesia Land Grant Program under Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and the senior leadership of PCC, including COM Board of Regent Chair Dr. Emais Roberts, PCC President Dr. Patrick Tellei and Dr. Christopher Kitalong, Vice President PCC CRE.

Pictured from left to Right: Dr. Brent Elrod, Senior Programs Officer, Office of the Director, NIFA; Alexis Nazario-Negron, NIFA Director of Planning, Accountability and Reporting; Kellyann Jones, NIFA Program leader, Institute of Youth, Family, and Community; Dr. Dionne Toombs, NIFA Associate Director for Programs; Dr. Suzanne Stluka, Deputy Director Institute of Food Safety & Nutrition (IFSN); Elizabeth Kerling, NIFA Senior Grants Management Specialist, Award Management Divison, posing in front of Palau Community College in Koror, Republic of Palau.

A group photo was taken on Day 1 at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on April 29, 2024.

Execitive Director adressing the gathering on Day 2 at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on April 29, 2024.

COM Executive Director Stanley Lorennij chairing a meeting with representatives of the Colleges in the region. From the right to the left of Director Stanley; Dr. Aufa I Apulu Ropeti Areta, Director of Programs at Amercian Samoa Community College, Agriculture Community and Natural Resources Division; Dr. Jeremy Elliot-Engel, Associate Dean & Associated Director, CES, University of Hawaii at Manoa Cooperative Extension, Dr. Rachael Leon Guerrero, Dean University of Guam CNAS, Dr. Adedayo Ogunmokun, VP, CMI-CRE; Steven Young Uhk, VP, COM-FSM-CRE; Mrs. Patricia Coleman Interim Dean Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension & Education Services and Dr. Christopher Kitalong, VP, PCC -CRE on Day 2 at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on April 30, 2024.

From the left; Dr. Murukesan Krishnapillai, Agriculture Research Scientist, COM-FSM, Yap CRE with Mr. Mark Googag, COM-FSm Yap-CRE Coordinatior working on a group activity related to Yap at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on Day-4, May 2, 2024.

From the left : Dr. Manoj R. Nair Acting Associate AES Director & Aquaculture Research Scientist, COM; Doman Daoas, CFO,COM (sitting); Steven Young Uhk, VP, COM-FSM CRE; Trisden Elias COM-FSM Pohnpei CRE Coordinator and Engly Ioanis, Acting Associate CES Director & Livestock Specialist, COM (sitting) working on a group activity related to Yap at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on Day -4 , May 2, 2024.

A group photo of the COM-FSM CRE 4 State coordinators explaining their work on trditional foods and medicines in Micronesia to the Conference representatives . From left to right : Mark Googag, COM-FSM Yap CRE Coordinator; Kalvin Assito, COM-FSM Chukk CRE Coordinator; Trisden Elias, COM-FSM Pohnpei CRE Coordinator and Mrs. Kenye Killin, COM-FSM Kosrae CRE Coordinator, taken on Day 4 of conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on May 2, 2024. On the far right, MC of the Conference, PCC CRE Agriculture Research Aide, Emengel Singich is seen taking pictures.

A photo of the CMI CRE Senior Extension Agent Lajikit Rufus explaining the work on trditional foods and medicines in Marshall Islands to the Conference representatives taken on Day 4 of conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on May 2, 2024.

A photo of the PCC CRE Agriculture Research Aide, Emengel Singich explaining the work on trditional foods and medicines in Marshall Islands to the Conference representatives taken on Day 4 of conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on May 2, 2024.

Dr Chris Kitalong , V.P. PCC-CRE and McKinght McArthur Field Assistant, Agriculture, PCC -CRE explaining to the group the data collection methodology of soil probes set up at a farm site in Koror, Palau on May 2, 2024

Dr Patrick Tellei, President PCC explaining to the group about Palau traditional house construction and the significance of their traditional design in Koror, Palau on May 2, 2024.

Mr Bachat Arsenio (foreground in green tee) from the Koror State Solid Waste Management Office explaining the recycle efforts at Koror State to the Conference representatives during the field trip on Day 4 of conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC) on May 2, 2024.

A group photo of the support team from PCC and PCC-CRE led by PCC-CRE Senior Agent Elchung Hideyos who helped in the smooth conduct of the Conference.

On the sidelines of the Conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC), COM Land Grant Executive Director Stanley Lorennij met with Dr. Rachael Leon Guerrero, the new Dean for the University of Guam, College of Natural & Applied Sciences.

Dr. Guerrero, who was earlier the EFNEP Coordinator, just replaced Dr. Lee Yudin, the long-time Dean of the Land Grant Program at the University of Guam. Mrs. Margaret Weital, College of Micronesia Land Grant EFNEP Coordinator, attended the meeting.

Pictured from left to Right: Mr Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM; Margaret Weital, EFNEP Coordinator; and Dr. Rachael Leon Guerrero, Dean, University of Guam, College of Natural & Applied Sciences on Day 2 at the conference on USDA NIFA Land Grant Programs for USAPI and FAS Colleges at Palau Community College (PCC), May 1, 2024.

College of Micronesia Board of Regents, Partner College Presidents, VPs, and COM Central office Staff under the leadership of COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij met at Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia for the COM Board meeting from April 17-18, 2024.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the COM Land Grant Board of Regents members, the COM Land Grant Management team members, and COM Central office staff had a chance to visit the Korea-South Pacific Ocean Research Center (KSORC) facility in Chuuk. The Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute (KORDI) established the Korea-South Pacific Ocean Research Center (KSORC) at Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia, in 2000, with their main focus being Tropical ocean research and breeding technology in Chuuk.

Pictured from left to Right: Dr. Christopher Kitalong, VP CRE PCC; Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, President COM-FSM; Dr. Elizabeth Switaj, Acting President CMI; Mrs. Suzanne Gallen, COM Board of Regent Vice-chair; Dr. Adedayao Ogunmokun VP, CMI CRE; Dr Emais Roberts, Chairman COM Board of Regents; COM Board of Regents, Mrs. Kathryn Relang, Secretary, COM Board of Regents; Dr. Patrick Tellei, PCC President; Mr. Kalvin Assito, COM-FSM CRE Chuuk Coordinator; Mr. Steven Young Uhk, VP, COM-FSM, CRE; and Mrs. Haraline Ramirez, COM Land Grant Executive Secretary, at Korea-South Pacific Ocean Research Center (KSORC) facility in Chuuk.

Korea-South Pacific Ocean Research Center (KSORC) staff explaining their research to the visiting team at the KSORC research facility in Chuuk.

College of Micronesia and Partner College administrative staff attended the annual National Extension and Research Administrative Officers Conference (NERAOC) 2024 in Wilmington, Delaware, from April 7-10, 2024, as part of their professional development and program.

The annual National Extension and Research Administrative Officers Conference (NERAOC) provides a venue for professional development, information sharing, and networking to state Cooperative Extension, Agricultural Experiment Station, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) staff. This includes sharing and exchanging current and relevant best practices, discussing policy, obtaining definitive interpretation of regulations, and discussing future issues pertinent to operating the Land-grant University (LGU) system and other cooperating institutions. The NERAOC serves individuals at Land-grant institutions in all regions as defined by the APLU Board on Agricultural Assembly (BAA) Experiment Station Experiment Station Committee on Organization and Policy (ESCOP) and Extension Section Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP). NERAOC highlighted the Land Grant Institutions partnership with USDA-NIFA and all other communities. The conference aims to strengthen professional development and information sharing, including networking with colleagues nationwide through engaging presentations, hands-on sessions, and round table discussions.

Pictured from left to Right: Engly Ioanis, Livestock Specialist & Acting Associate Director CES, COM; Mrs. Linda Flowers, Head, Capacity Grant Section, NIFA, USDA; Dr. Manoj Nair, Aquaculture Research Scientist & Acting Associate Director AES, COM; Dr. Murukesan Krishnapillai, Research Scientist, Agriculture, COM-FSM on the sidelines of NERAOC, 2024.

Pictured from left to Right are Doman Daoas, CFO, COM; Grace Lorrin, Administrative Assistant, COM; Dr. Manoj Nair, Acting Associate Director AES, COM; Malia Nii, Secretary, CMI CRE; Engly Ioanis, Associate Director CES, COM; and Mrs. Roselle Dogonon, Comptroller, COM-FSM, at NERAOC 2024, Wilmington, Delaware.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and other staff from the COM Central Office attended the 31st COM-FSM Foundation Day celebrations at PICS High School track and field on April 2, 2024.

The theme for this year’s COM-FSM Foundation Day was sports. The COM Central Office team witnessed the sporting activities of students representing the different states and campuses.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij met with Dr Theresa Koroivulaono on the sidelines of the celebrations. Diplomats from different Missions also attended the celebrations.

Dr. Manoj Nair, Doman Daoas, Haraline Ramirez and Margaret Weital accompanied the Executive Director Mr. Stanely Lorrenij to show COM’s support and commitment to partner colleges.

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij in front of the VIP gallery at PICS track and field

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij and Dr Theresa Koroivulaono, President COM-FSM enjoying the Student sports at PICS track and field as part of the COM -FSM Foundation day celebrations in Pohnpei

COM Land Grant Executive Director Mr. Stanley Lorennij with Dr Theresa Koroivulaono, President COM-FSMat the COM -FSM Foundation day celebrations in PICS track and field, Pohnpei

COM -FSM Students participating in the Games and Sports at the PICS, track and field in Pohnpei

Pictured from left to Right: Dr. Manoj Nair, Doman Daoas, Executive Director Stanley Lorennij and COM-FSM CRE coordination Trisden Elias at the COM-FSM Foundation Day celebrations in PICS track and field in Pohnpei

Pictured from left to Right: Haraline Ramirez and Margaret Weital from the COM Central Office at the COM-FSM Foundation Day celebrations in PICS track and field in Pohnpei

According to a press release from the Office of the Governor of Pohnpei State on March 19, 2024,

North Pacific Aqua Trading Corporation, represented by General Manager Westcott Panuelo, delivered a compelling business presentation at the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA) conference room to Governor Joseph and key stakeholders.

The presentation outlined the corporation’s proactive approach to address concerns regarding foreign exploitation of local natural resources, particularly sea cucumbers, with minimal benefits to local communities and environmental sustainability.

Mr. Panuelo highlighted the increasing demand for sea cucumbers in China and emphasized the historical significance of these marine creatures as a traded commodity in our region, known as beche-de-mer.

The proposed business strategy entails a two-phase approach. The first phase focuses on infrastructure setup, collaboration with COM Land Grant for hatchery support, and community training. The second phase involves expansion and enhancement, with projections of creating over 200 job opportunities.

Acknowledging the importance of government support, Mr. Panuelo stressed the need for regulatory amendments to ensure adherence to best practices and practicality. The corporation plans to establish 50 sea cucumber farms, with 30 located within local communities, offering them a chance to participate in and profit from aquaculture activities.

Furthermore, Mr. Panuelo outlined plans to eventually allow community members to purchase shares in the corporation, fostering local ownership and involvement in the enterprise.

Governor Joseph praised the vision presented by North Pacific Aqua Trading Corporation, aligning with his administration’s goals of addressing food security, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, and promoting sustainable practices within local communities.

Expressing his excitement for the partnership, Governor Joseph assured Mr. Panuelo and his team, including Mr. Aspen Apis and Enlet Enlet Jr., of the full support and cooperation of the Pohnpei State Government in realizing this ambitious and beneficial initiative.

Also present during the presentation were: Mr. Stanely Lorrenij Executive Director of COM Land Grant, Mr. Clayton Hedson, Acting Administrator of OFA, Mr. Eugene Eperiam, Acting Director of the Department of Resources and Development, Mr. Jorg Anson – Nominee for the position of OFA Administrator and Mr. Mark Kostka – Nominee for the position of Director of the Department of Resources and Development.

News feature source: Press release Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State

Pictured from left to Right from far-left corner: Mr. Westcott Panuelo Mr. Stanley Lorennij , Hon. Stevenson A. Joseph, Governor, Pohnpei State Government, Mr. Mark Kostaka, Mr. Aspen Apis and Enlet Enlet Jr at Pohnpei State Office of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Conference Hall in Pohnpei, March 19, 2024(Picture credit Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State)

A view during the presentation on Sustainable Sea cucumber Aquaculture done by Mr. Westcott Panuelo, North Pacific Aqua Trading Corporation to the group at the Pohnpie State Office of the Fisheries and Aquaculture in Pohnpei on March 19, 2024 ( Picture credit Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State)

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According to a press release from the Office of the Governor of Pohnpei State on March 13, 2024,

Local entrepreneurs Mr. Westcott Panuelo, Mr. Aspen Apis, and Mr. Enlet Enlet Jr. paid a courtesy visit to Governor Joseph to introduce their innovative business venture, North Pacific Aqua Trading. The trio shared their vision of establishing a sustainable enterprise centered around the sale of sea cucumbers, harnessing the rich natural resources of our ocean.

North Pacific Aqua Trading aims to leverage the support of COM Land Grants Nursery and technical expertise on sea cucumbers to create a thriving business that aligns with environmental sustainability. The entrepreneurs expressed their commitment to responsible resource utilization and their desire to contribute positively to the local economy.

During the meeting, the entrepreneurs requested a follow-up session to elaborate further on their business concept and discuss potential collaborations with the Pohnpei State Government. Governor Joseph congratulated the trio for their entrepreneurial spirit, commended their dedication to sustainability, and assured them of his full support.

Governor Joseph shared insights from a prior meeting with COM Land Grant Executive Director Stanley Lorrenij, who hinted at exciting project collaborations on the horizon. The Governor supported the idea of key personnel from the Pohnpei State Government joining the entrepreneurs’ presentation to foster collaboration and enhance the success of North Pacific Aqua Trading.

This promising initiative exemplifies Pohnpei State’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible business practices. As the entrepreneurs prepare for the follow-up meeting, anticipation grows for North Pacific Aqua Trading’s potential positive impact on the local economy and environment.

News feature source: Press release Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State

Pictured from left to Right: Mr. Aspen Apis, Hon. Stevenson A. Joseph, Governor, Pohnpei State Government, Mr. Westcott Panuelo and Mr. Enlet Enlet Jr at Governor’s office in Pohnpei, March 13, 2024, 2024 ( Picture credit Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State)

A view of the meeting between Hon. Stevenson A. Joseph and the North Pacific Aqua Trading Group team at the Governor’s office in Pohnpei on March 13, 2024 ( Picture credit Office of the Governor, Pohnpei State)

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Dr. Anne McDonald, Director of Island Sustainability Institute, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan, met with COM Land Grant Executive Director Stanley Lorennij and made a courtesy call to him. Dr. McDonald and Researcher Dr. Iain Hall are in Pohnpei as consultants for the GCF Grant for the FSM Government and Pohnpei State.

During the discussions, Dr. Anne McDonald briefed Executive Director Stanley Lorennij on her roles and responsibilities at the Island Sustainability Institute. She also provided updates on the different programs and projects conducted at the Institute and the potential for collaborative efforts between COM partner colleges and Sophia University regarding Students enrolling in a fully funded Master’s program in Environmental Sciences there. Dr. McDonald was particularly interested in the COM Aquaculture Program, especially the Sea cucumber project, and explained her efforts in the conservation of sea cucumbers while working in Japan. She will explore possibilities of student and research staff exchanges between Sophia University and the COM system. Dr. Iain Hall, a visiting researcher at the Island Sustainability Institute, Sophia University, and Dr. Manoj Nair, in charge of aquaculture at the COM Central Office, also participated in the meeting.

Pictured from left to Right: Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director, COM Land Grant, Dr. Iain Hall, Visiting Researcher, Island Sustainability Institute, Dr. Anne McDonald, Director, Island Sustainability Institute, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan at COM Central Office in Pohnpei March 13, 2024, 2024

Pictured from left to Right: Doman Daoas, CFO, COM Land Grant; Ricardo Vera Cruz, Business Manager, COM Land Grant Program; Dr. Anne McDonald, Director, Island Sustainability Institute, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan; Dr. Iain Hall, Visiting Researcher, Island Sustainability Institute, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan and Engly Ioanis, WSARE Coordinator, at COM Central Office in Pohnpei March 13, 2024