The Guam Board of Education has elected Judith P. Guthertz as its new chairwoman, placing a veteran educator, former lawmaker and public safety leader at the helm of the island’s public-school governing body.
The vote took place Jan. 27, according to the Guam Department of Education.
Guthertz, a longtime University of Guam professor, previously served as vice president emerita of academic affairs and held numerous leadership roles at UOG, including acting president, acting dean and department chairperson. Her career in public service also includes three terms as a senator in the 29th, 30th and 31st Guam Legislatures, as well as serving as director of public safety and acting chief of police for the Guam Police Department.
“I am deeply honored by the trust my fellow board members have placed in me,” Guthertz said. “Public education is foundational to Guam’s future, and I look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders … to strengthen our public schools.”
Mary A.Y. Okada was reelected as vice chair. Okada is the former president and CEO of Guam Community College and is known for her work in workforce development and career and technical education. She holds advanced degrees in business administration, public administration and educational leadership.
Together, Guthertz and Okada will help guide policies focused on academic achievement, governance and community engagement, GDOE said.