Samoana High School Students Inducted into Interact

March 13, 2026 Samoana High School Cafeteria, Utulei

Rotary Club of Pago Pago celebrated the induction of 30 students into the Samoana High School Interact Club this afternoon in a ceremony that broke with tradition to create a more meaningful and intimate experience for the newest members of the global Interact network.

Rather than the typical formal setup with rows of chairs facing a head table, organizers arranged seating in a large circle. Rotary Club President Raymond David and Secretary Joey Cummings explained at the outset that the circular formation allowed everyone to look at each other as equals and to stay fully engaged throughout the ceremony.

“When you look across this circle, you’re not just seeing classmates or club members,” Cummings told the students near the ceremony’s conclusion. “These are people you can turn to not just now, but for the rest of your lives as you make the transition into adulthood and begin your journey of stewardship for your communities.”

President David delivered the keynote address, and Cummings covered the principles of Interact service and the expectations for club members. The ceremony included the pinning of four student officers who will lead the club’s activities:

President: Tuahine’eleuokamoanaalipolipo RapozaVice President: Ariel Villanueva Jr.Secretary: Loucus SotoaTreasurer: Layla Leota

Following the officers’ pinning, all 30 members received their Interact pins, officially marking their induction into the organization. Words of thanks were exchanged, and the students presented small gifts to the Rotarians in attendance.

The club operates under the guidance of Student Advisor Carly Brown, who will work with the student officers to coordinate service projects and club activities throughout the year.

Rotarian Justin Tuiasosopo came through with pizza for everyone, ensuring the celebration included refreshments for students, Rotarians, parents, and teachers who attended the induction.

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The highlight of the afternoon came when the Interact club performed two songs they had prepared for the occasion. Singing together in their circle, the students created a moving moment that captured the spirit of fellowship and service at the heart of Interact.

Before concluding, Cummings asked everyone to freeze and look across the circle at the person opposite them, then left and right at their neighbors, driving home the message that the bonds formed in this club would extend far beyond high school.

The Samoana induction was the sixth and final Interact induction for the 2025-2026 school year. Rotary Club of Pago Pago completed inductions at Tafuna High School, Leone High School, Faasao Marist, Manumalo Academy, and Pacific Horizons School earlier in the year, all of which were well received by students, faculty, and parents.

The Interact clubs join a worldwide network of more than 20,000 clubs in over 150 countries, giving young people opportunities to develop leadership skills while making a positive impact on their communities. The successful completion of all six inductions marks a significant milestone in Rotary Club of Pago Pago’s youth services program, which also includes support for RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment) and other youth leadership initiatives.