The University of Guam on Friday celebrated the blessing and ribbon cutting of its new School of Engineering building, marking what university and government leaders called a major step toward strengthening Guam’s local workforce and self-determination.
The ceremony drew a large crowd of government officials, university leaders, faculty, students, donors and community partners. Archbishop Ryan Jimenez of the Archdiocese of Agana blessed the facility before speakers highlighted the yearslong effort behind the project.
UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez said the building represents “a new era of self-determination and local ingenuity,” noting the School of Engineering has already produced graduates who are in high demand by employers. She said the civil engineering program earned accreditation on its first attempt in 2024 and has graduated dozens of students, many of whom received multiple job offers before completing their degrees.
The project was the result of more than a decade of collaboration among UOG, the UOG Endowment Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program, according to speakers. UOG Endowment Foundation Chair Jesse Leon Guerrero described the process as challenging but said perseverance led to the completion of the facility.
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero praised the opening as a sign of progress for Guam’s economy, saying the school will help ensure local engineers are trained to support ongoing construction and infrastructure needs. Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio emphasized the importance of developing homegrown talent rooted in island heritage.
Board of Regents Chair Agapito “Pete” Diaz said the building is an investment in Guam’s future, adding that engineers trained at UOG will play a critical role in infrastructure, sustainability and economic growth.
University officials said the facility will support expanded engineering programs and partnerships while serving as a permanent home for the School of Engineering.