ASCC Welcomes New Dean of Academic Affairs
January 23, 2014
By James Kneubuhl, ASCC Press Officer
The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) has begun its spring 2014 semester with a new Dean of Academic Affairs, Mrs. Letupu Tauanu'u Moananu, who has succeeded Dr. Irene Helsham. Currently in her 11 th year at the College, Mrs. Moananu has long been a familiar face in the Math Department, most recently serving as its Chairperson. As stated by ASCC President Dr. Seth Galea'i, Mrs. Moananu's appointment "is a result of her years of exemplary service to ASCC in various capacities and her credentials and established qualifications."
Mrs. Moananu began her college education at ASCC, where she completed her Associate in Arts degree before going on to earn her Bachelor in Science degree in Math from Washington State University and her Masters degree in Math from California State University in Fullerton. She is currently near completion of a PhD in Postsecondary and Adult Education from Capella University. "As I embark on this new journey in my career path, I look forward to working with the administration, faculty, and staff as we strive to achieve our college mission, and I hope to positively impact and enhance the educational experience of our students," said Mrs. Moananu.
Mrs. Moananu will be assisted by Mrs. Evelyn Gibbs Fruean, who has been chosen as the new Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. In his memo announcing her appointment, President Dr. Galea'i commended Mrs. Fruean for her "wealth of knowledge, skills and expertise in curriculum and instruction, and technology." Mrs. Fruean also began her college career at ASCC, where she earned her Associate degree in Liberal Arts before pursuing a Bachelor of Education as part of the University of Hawaii-Manoa Cohort program. She also holds a Master of Teaching and Learning with an emphasis on Technology degree from Kaplan University and is near completion of a Doctorate of Teacher Leader from Walden University. Mrs. Fruean has served at ASCC for three years as an Introduction to Computer Technology instructor in the Trades & Technology Division. "I hope to achieve positive relations and communications with each department and division, and also support the Dean of Academic Affairs in all roles and responsibilities," said Mrs. Fruean.
In addition to welcoming Mrs. Moananu and Mrs. Fruean, ASCC Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Kathleen Kolhoff-Belle expressed her well-wishes to their predecessor Dr. Irene Helsham on behalf of the College's administration. Dr. Helsham, who served at ASCC for 21 years in addition to nine with the Department of Education, retired at the end of the fall 2013 semester. "Irene's tireless hard work and pleasant personality touched the lives of so many people during her years with us," reflected Dr. Kolhoff-Belle. "She will be missed, but we wish her nothing but the best in whatever new direction she chooses for this new chapter in her life."