73 high school students certified in Trading-Up Hospitality Program

Marianas High School students received their certificate from the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute in an awards ceremony after they passed their Trading-Up Hospitality Program at the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan last Thursday. (LEIGH GASES)

The 73 students who completed the Trading-Up Hospitality Program through the Northern Marianas Technical Institute and CNMI Public School System were presented their certificates in an awards ceremony last Thursday at the Hibiscus Hall of the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan.

The students from three of Saipan’s public high schools—23 from Marianas High School, 25 from Saipan Southern High School, and 25 from Kagman High School—are now certified by the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute or AHLEI.

Out of 73 graduates, 19 graduated with honors.

Tyce Mister was the instructor for MHS, Glenn Policare and Larry Lee were the instructors for Kagman High School, and Alyone Gersonde was the instructor for Saipan Southern High School.

The “Trading Up” Program—a collaboration between PSS and NMTech—is a dual enrollment program where interested PSS students enroll in NMTech hospitality classes and receive credit toward graduation and, upon completion of any course, also get a nationally recognized certificate.

In Thursday’s ceremony, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort, Aqua Resort Club, Saipan World Resort, Saipan Surfrider, and Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan were also awarded certificates of appreciation for their participation in the hands-on training of students in the program.

In attendance with the students and their family members were Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, Education Commissioner Dr. Alfred B. Ada, NMTech CEO Jodina Attao, Island Training Solutions owner Jim Arenovski, CNMI PSS Co-Op program coordinator Brandon Nicolas, and other dignitaries.

Arenovski said of the students, “These young adults are motivated and dedicated to their future. Whether they’re off to pursue college here or abroad…they will succeed in what they choose to do. …This class could not be accomplished without the support and assistance of NMTech and ITS instructors.”

He urged the students to “use your colors vividly. Show your personality, show your smile, show your culture, and be you. Congratulations on an impressive accomplishment. We’re all very proud.”

Palacios also congratulated the class. “Wonderful things can happen in the hospitality industry. It’s not just about providing the service. It’s about offering an experience. …It’s about welcoming our guests from across the globe and making them feel at home,” he said. “This is the mission you 73 students have chosen to do one day.”

He added, “Whether you choose to join the workforce in this industry, or continue on to further education and career path, remember this achievement is the foundation upon which we build upon your future. So as you embark on this journey, remember that you are the ambassadors of our islands. You carry within you our values, our culture, and our spirit.

“Let’s celebrate your achievement, but most importantly, let’s celebrate your journey, your dreams, and your potential. We are immensely proud of you and we look forward to the incredible things that you will do,” he added.