Be the change you want to see in this world

"Winning starts in the mind. Whatever the mind can conceive, it will achieve."
-Joaquin Nangauta Naputi

"Be the change you want to see in the world."
-Mahatma Gandhi

Thursday, May 29, 2014

American Poet Laureate and Medal of Freedom recipient, Dr. Maya Angelou, passed away yesterday. She was 86. A great voice is silent, but her words will rise. _______________________________________________________________________________________ The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release May 28, 2014 Statement by the President on the Passing of Maya Angelou When her friend Nelson Mandela passed away last year, Maya Angelou wrote that “No sun outlasts its sunset, but will rise again, and bring the dawn.” Today, Michelle and I join millions around the world in remembering one of the brightest lights of our time – a brilliant writer, a fierce friend, and a truly phenomenal woman. Over the course of her remarkable life, Maya was many things – an author, poet, civil rights activist, playwright, actress, director, composer, singer and dancer. But above all, she was a storyteller – and her greatest stories were true. A childhood of suffering and abuse actually drove her to stop speaking – but the voice she found helped generations of Americans find their rainbow amidst the clouds, and inspired the rest of us to be our best selves. In fact, she inspired my own mother to name my sister Maya. Like so many others, Michelle and I will always cherish the time we were privileged to spend with Maya. With a kind word and a strong embrace, she had the ability to remind us that we are all God’s children; that we all have something to offer. And while Maya’s day may be done, we take comfort in knowing that her song will continue, “flung up to heaven” – and we celebrate the dawn that Maya Angelou helped bring. http://www.nj.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2014/05/maya_angelou_quotes_poetry.html http://youtu.be/r_muacudzsI

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

UOG Alumni News - May 28

1) UOG 62nd Anniversary Founders Day Gala, Just a Month Away!

Our signature green-tie event of the year is just a month away! We only have six tables (which seats 10) available as of today. Please contact Norman Analista at 735-2991 or nanalista@uguam.uog.edu to reserve your tickets today.

Below, you’ll find information on our exquisite menu for the event. A vegan option is also available. You’ll also have the opportunity to win exciting prizes including two separate United Business roundtrip tickets to Micronesia, Asia or Cairns, Australia! Plus, enjoy amazing entertainment from UOG students, alumni and faculty!





In the meantime, we invite you to review pictures and video highlights from our previous celebrations:

Photo Highlights:
2013:

2012:

Video Highlights:
2013:

2012:


2)Important Alumni Survey

The University of Guam is collecting data and feedback from our alumni regarding the campus services that were available to them, as well as their success in finding employment in their field. If you haven’t already, please take a few minutes to respond to the following survey which will help us to better understand the needs of our growing alumni network.

The survey consists of 40 questions and it will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. You will also be asked to answer questions pertaining to: your gender, your educational status, and your occupational status. The information obtained will be kept in confidence. Names will only be able to be traced by the researcher. The information may be used for statistical or scientific purposes without identifying you as an individual.

Please click on the link below to access the survey.


If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. Thank you in advance for your time and support!


3)Save the Date for More Exciting Events in 2014!
In an effort to lessen the impact of our carbon footprint, electronic communications will remain central to our alumni outreach. We will continue to email event invitations, announcements of new benefits and programs, as  well as other exciting news.

1)Professional Mixer
Thursday, 9/18, 6p-10p, Venue TBD

2)Alumni Reunion: Featuring the Distinguished Alumni Awards
Saturday, 11/15, 6p-10p, Venue TBD

Browse through photo galleries and video highlights of these events from previous years:

Online photo album:

Official youtube page:

Guam IRA Receives Honorable Award in 59th Annual Convention


Congratulations to the GUAM COUNCIL for being recognized as an HONOR COUNCIL of the International Reading Association for its achievements in programs, membership promotion, and community service for eighteen (18) years.

The Guam Council of the International Reading Association (IRA) received the Honor Council award during IRA's 59th Annual Convention held in New Orleans.  GC-IRA is to be commended on making a difference in the literacy development of our island's children of all ages.

GC-IRA helps educators and parents alike discover the wonder and the worlds to be found in books. Guam IRA is a professional organization for individuals who are genuinely concerned with the development of reading programs for children and adults. It is a group of people who work together to improve literacy and reading instruction in Guam and Micronesia. To find out more information about the Guam IRA, visit its website at http://iraguam.blogspot.com.

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Congratulations Spring 2014 Graduates!

UOG President, Dr. Robert Underwood, addresses 291 graduates, families, and friends during the commencement.
The University of Guam celebrated the graduation of its 291 students on May 25, 2014 at the UOG Field House. The Commencement Ceremonies featured keynote speaker President Tommy Remengesau Jr. of the Republic of Palau. Remengesau impressed upon the need to preserve island values using modern ideas. Congratulations Spring 2014 graduates!

Saturday, May 24, 2014

PEP Island-Wide Disability Conference a Success!

Jo Mascorro, Keynote Speaker and Education Consultant from San Antonio, Texas, wows the crowd with her tips and humor.

Jo Mascorro is awarded a cultural plaque for her insightful keynote presentation at PEP's 1st Annual Island-Wide Conference on Disabilities held May 24, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

The Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) 1st Annual Island-Wide Conference on Disabilities held May 24, 2014 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel was meaningful. The theme of the conference was Don't Look Now, YOUR Behavior is Showing! - Strategies to Assist in Teaching Ownership and Management of Behavior.  It featured renown Keynote Speaker Jo Mascorro, Consultant for Education, from San Antonio, Texas.

The conference began with a thought-reflective quote by Helen Keller, which includes the following:  "A person who is severely impaired never knows his hidden sources of strength until he is treated like a normal human being and encouraged to shape his own life."

Behavior protocols for the teacher and student were reviewed.  The teacher must focus on Self, Instruction/Expectations, Environment, and Parameters.  When working with the student, we need to focus on Targeted Behaviors, Student Specifics (Info), Interventions, and Opportunities.

Some ideas reflected on include to focus on "YOU" to make a difference; behavior and words have to match; we must be a role model 100% of the the time; be detailed with praises; and do not measure madness.  Other ideas I was reminded of were to allow for wait time to process, and don't sweat the small stuff.  With regards to Instruction/Expectations, we must be mindful that the brain struggles with "right now."  The brain demand is inclusive of "Hear, See, Do!"  It records and playback.  All brains need to anticipate who, what, when, where, why, and how.  With regards to the environment, we must ensure that it is conducive.  After observing the room environment, we may also reflect and question, "Would you want to go in there?"  The campus parameters can be connected with policies and procedures.  Mascorro reminded the participants that "They're (children) counting on you to set parameters."  This is because parameters validate parameters.  She further mentioned that we "should teach now while they're short."  Other autism resources she recommended were Taylor Crowe and Steven Hinkle.

We reviewed that adults ponder from the frontal lobe; anticipation is critical; and the importance of directives in "3's," such as, "Hear, See, Do!"  It's important to have visuals, rituals, and routines.  We must also always approach from the front first.  In addition, there is a difference between opportunity and intervention.  An opportunity occurs after the fact and is a reaction, whereas the intervention is a replacement behavior.  Also, intervention is the skill that is learned to do instead of the unwanted behavior.  It is person specific, so it depends on the child.

Positive Behavior Support phrasing examples were also introduced.  As part of this, we must keep in mind that the number of words used is driven by the cognitive ability of the student.  More specifically, we were reminded to use "By" to clarify what we say; avoid "?" phrases when the emotion center has turned on; say what you SEE and say what you WANT; (Describe behavior)..."tells me you want (+)"; and (Describe behavior)..."tells me you want (-)"

Lastly, the reflective question she posed a few times were, "How's that working for you?"  She said that if you want positive change to happen, "You got to work it!  You have to put it in before you can get it out!"

Friday, May 23, 2014

Let us remember...



On this Memorial Day, let us remember
all those soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, who sacrificed their lives, so that we may be safe from harm. They will always be remembered!

M.U. Lujan Chamorro Program Part II a Success!

The M.U. Lujan Elementary School Chamorro Program Part II held May 23, 2014 was filled with Chamorro island spirit and cheer that will always be remembered.  The first program was held during the Chamorro Month of March.  Part II was presented with the arrival of the school's Principal, Mike Meno, who just returned from military leave.  Welcome back, Mr. Meno!  Biba Chamorro and kudos to all! Enjoy the following snapshots taken during this special event!

Tuleti, 3rd Grade/4th Grade:  Joaquin Naputi Abraham Rivera (left standing with microphone) is the lead singer of the group.


Chaife, 5th Grade

Estorian Hagon Niyok - Bailan Batsu, 2nd Grade/3rd Grade

Munga yu' ma Fino' Inglisi, 5th Grade


Gupot Chamoru, 2nd Grade
Ta Baila Twist, 1st Grade

Tattiyi Hami, 4th Grade


Saturday, May 17, 2014

Higher Education Summer Schedule


Tabi's Baby Shower

Congratulations, Tabi!  God Bless.


The Power of Love and Truth Defined


There’s no doubt that love is a hot topic.  Dr. Maryott is instrumental in sharing the genuine roles of love and truth in our every day relationships with one another, with our country, and with God Almighty.  The words of wisdom shared throughout the book pictured above allow us to authentically reflect and empower ourselves.

Friday, May 16, 2014

2nd FestPac Workshop, Connect Me * Create Me* Promote Me Series

Visual Arts Committee: Create Me…Preservation and Quality Arts Workshop

This workshop is the second in a set of three being offered by Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities with funding from the Guam Visitors Bureau and support from Guam Preservation Trust and Guampedia. The workshop is being offered to keep Guam artists current with plans for the Festival of the Pacific scheduled for 2016 on Guam, and improve their knowledge on how they can better prepare their works for a professional display.

Location:  Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica National Museum, HagÃ¥tña


Program Schedule 
8:30 a.m. Registration
9:00 a.m. Welcome - Monica Guzman
Overview on Visual Arts, Workshop Brief - Ron Castro, Jen Ooka
9:15 a.m. Historical overview of Visual Arts on Guam  - Judy Flores
What We Own, What We Have, What We Share
9:30 a.m. Break Out Sessions
   2D – Discussion on materials and framing: Panel members: Ron J. Castro, Dawn Reyes, Ric R. Castro, Henry Klickner  (Art & Frames)
3D – Discussion on professional set up of exhibition, curating, displays, pedestals by Lewis Rifkowitz, Moneka Flores, Velma Yamashita  
Film - Developing a story line and finding funding: Raph Unpingco and Bal  Aguon. Production and post production: Don Muna, Tom Tanner,  Burt Sardoma
10:15 a.m. Break
10:30 a.m. Continuation of Break Out Sessions (2D, 3D and Film)
11:30 a.m. Project Management Overview/ Panel Discussion
11:45 a.m. Evaluation and Wrap Up

SPED Presentation: Does your Child Need a One-to One Aide? - May 22

Dr. Cathy Pratt speaks to parents during a special training held at the University of Guam.


SPEDTACULAR training being provided just for YOU.

Session Title:  Does your Child Need a One-to One Aide?

Consultant:  Cathy Pratt, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Description:  This session will engage parents in a discussion on the importance of starting with the end-in-mind- the long term goals for their child - to determine the educational supports needed, including the use of one-to-one aides.

Date:  Thursday, May 22, 2014
Time:   5-8pm
Location: UOG School of Business Building, Room 131-IT&E Lecture Hall


ABOUT THE CONSULTANT:Dr. Cathy Pratt is the Director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community located at Indiana University. Dr. Pratt is on faculty at Indiana University, and presents internationally. Dr. Pratt serves on numerous Advisory Boards, including the Advisory Boards of Maap Services, Inc., the College Internship Program, the Autism Society of Indiana, and the Temple Grandin/Eustacia Cutler Autism Fund. In the past, she served on the Board of the national Autism Society and is the Immediate Past Chair. Dr. Pratt also serves on the Panel of Professional Advisors for the Autism Society and is a member of NATTAP (Network of Autism Training and Technical Assistance Programs). Dr. Pratt also assists with the coordination of the Autism Special Interest Group (SIG) through the Association of University Centers on Disability (AUCD). She served as a member of the public review committee for the Research Roadmap of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee and in 2010 was invited to the White House to provide feedback on the president’s initiatives on autism spectrum disorders. She writes and presents on the following topics: autism spectrum disorders, functional behavior assessment/positive behavior supports, applied behavior analysis, instructional approaches, systems change, and policy. Prior to pursuing her doctorate at Indiana University, Dr. Pratt worked as a classroom teacher for students across the autism spectrum and with other disabilities. Dr. Pratt earned her BCBA and is now a board certified behavior analyst.

Please confirm you participation by responding to this e-mail or call Parent Services at 300-1321/2 no later than Wednesday, 5/21/14.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Julia's Recital Meaningful!

Julia Naputi Rivera's opera performance held May 7, 2014 at the UOG Fine Arts Theatre was amazing!  Si Yu'os Ma'ase' to all the performers and support from the audience!



Sunday, May 11, 2014

Happy Mother's Day!







Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful Mothers out there! Enjoy your Special Day! You deserve it! May God Bless you always, for all that you do, from being a nurse, doctor, taxi driver, photographer, etc.The list goes on! Enjoy the following mother’s poem!

Nana
Nana*….
If I haven’t told you already
“I love you so”
And always will

You have sacrificed
You have brought so much nurturing into my life
That I can’t imagine my life without you.
Even if my actions tell a different story.

So though I don’t say it all the time
Just know that I do appreciate you
For all that you have done for me
That I love you too
And I always will…
I love you mom!

*Nana: mother
Source: Our Native Daughters’ Reflection of Guam and Its People by Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera and Lois Taitano Gumataotao.

University Singers Shine!

The University Singers' performance of Disney's Frozen captivated the young audience that filled the University of Guam's Fine Arts Theatre on May 8, 9, and 10, 2014.

Here are a few snapshots taken during this special performance!

Julia Naputi Rivera (center) who played the part of Bulda the Troll is surrounded by her fans.
Julia Naputi Rivera (center) takes a pose with her fans.
Joaquin Naputi Abraham Rivera runs to meet more of the stars.
Joaquin Naputi Abraham Rivera has a special talk with Elsa.
Joaquin Naputi Abraham Rivera is all smiles with his favorite characters, Anna and Elsa.

CAHA/PREL Talk Story Workshop II Instrumental!

The Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency (CAHA) and the Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) in collaboration with the Literary Arts Group of the 12th Festival of Pacific Arts Festival and the Guam Preservation Trust held the second segment of their scheduled workshops on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at the RFK Library at the University of Guam in Mangilao.  The theme for the workshop is the FestPac theme: “" What We Own, What We Have, What We Share, United Voices of the Pacific - Hafa Iyo-ta, Hafa Guinaha-ta, Hafa Ta Patte, Dinanna' Sunidu Siha Giya Pasifiku".  It was filled with excitement of  storytelling and publication tips.

The following are a few snapshots taken during the workshop.  Enjoy!













Saturday, May 03, 2014

CAHA/PREL Talk Story Workshop a Success!

The Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency (CAHA) and the Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) in collaboration with the Literary Arts Group of the 12th Festival of Pacific Arts Festival and the Guam Preservation Trust held a meaningful workshop today, May 3, 2014 at the RFK Library at the University of Guam in Mangilao.  The theme for the workshop is the FestPac theme: “" What We Own, What We Have, What We Share, United Voices of the Pacific - Hafa Iyo-ta, Hafa Guinaha-ta, Hafa Ta Patte, Dinanna' Sunidu Siha Giya Pasifiku".  It was filled with excitement of creative stories that were developed.

The workshop started off with an introduction by Chairperson Peter Onedera who provided information on the purpose of the workshop and allowed participants to introduce themselves. The audience were treated to meaningful topics of Oral Presentation by Louie Gombar;Storytelling by Antonia Masga Salas; Developing Program Topic of Stories by Leiana Naholowa'a; and Timeline/Storyline Process by Terry Perez.

Some stories resulting from this project will be featured in a PREL publication. Part 2 of the workshop is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2014 at AV#1, RFK Library, University of Guam.  The next set of presenters and topics for the workshop will include Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera – Historical Value of the Stories to be Written; PK Harmon – Publication Matters; and Dr. Monique Carriveau Storie – Techniques.

Interested parties may register with CAHA by submitting their name and contact information via telephone at 300-1204 to 300-1208 or via email at kaha1@guam.net. For further information, contact Jackie Balbas, CAHA Program Coordinator at the numbers previously indicated. Enjoy the following snapshots taken during today's creative workshop!