Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his personal appreciation and congratulations to Dr. David Ga’oupu Palaita.  On May 15, 2009, Dr. Palaita received his Doctorate of Philosophy in Comparative Ethnic Studies with a focus on Pacific Islander Studies from the prestigious University of California at Berkeley.  Dr. David Ga’oupu Palaita previously received his Master of Arts in Ethnic Studies from UC-Berkeley in 2005.  Also, he holds two Bachelors of Arts in Geography and American Ethnic Studies  from the University of Washington in Seattle.

Dr. Palaita is a notable individual that has distinguished himself by participating in the various student body organizations and working with the faculty at each university.  David has remained a staunch volunteer in many afterschool programs while working with at-risk youth.  He was an instructor at UC-Berkeley and was a teaching assistant at the University of Washington. 

Dr. Palaita is currently working as an assistant professor at the City College of San Francisco in California.  He is the son of Tavita Konesane Palaita of Afonotele and Ofu and Vivian Tutogi Palaita of Pago Pago and Fagatogo in American Samoa. 

“The accomplishments by Dr. David Ga’oupu Palaita is a testament of his personal determination and is a great of example of the perseverance of our Samoan youth.  He has excelled in education and has obtained numerous degrees in the various fields of studies from prominent universities,” Faleomavaega said.  “His academic excellence and success outside of the classroom has proven such immovable discipline that he attained while achieving his many degrees.  It is very tough and demanding for one to obtain a doctorate degree and it gives me great pleasure to witness one of our own accomplishing such great feats in academics, particularly in the social sciences.”

“David remains a great role model for our Samoan youth and the rest of our Pacific Islanders.  I want to acknowledge the great support of his parents and family and, importantly, the many educators who have played a vital role in David’s education.  Again, I want to congratulate David for his accomplishments and I wish him the best in his future.” Faleomavaega concluded.