New Cooperative Research and Extension Building Inaugurated at Yap Campus

The College of Micronesia-FSM, Yap Campus, celebrated a momentous occasion today with the grand opening of their new Cooperative Research and Extension (CRE) building. Ms. Lourdes Roboman, Dean of the Yap Campus, kicked off the ceremony with opening remarks, expressing her gratitude to the construction crew and staff for their dedication over the past two decades. She emphasized how this new building signifies an expansion of programs and services to improve the well-being and sustainability of Yap's communities.

The Cooperative Research and Extension Vice President, Mr. Steven Young-Uhk, elaborated on the collaborative effort that brought this project to fruition. He acknowledged the foresight of the College leadership, particularly the Yap Campus team, and the crucial financial support provided by the USDA Resident Instruction for Insular Areas (RIIA) programs through the Agriculture and Food Sciences Facilities and Equipment for Insular Areas (AGFEI) grant. He also commended BG Contractors for their expertise and commitment to quality construction and transforming the vision into a beautiful and functional space.

The President and CEO of the College, Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono, emphasized the importance of the CRE programs in her closing remarks.  She highlighted the program's alignment with the College's three focus areas: access, innovation, and resilience. She underscored the role of CRE in providing crucial knowledge and skills development in agriculture, nutrition, resource management, and youth programs, ultimately contributing to food security, economic growth, and overall community well-being throughout Yap and the FSM.  This new building symbolizes the College's unwavering commitment to serving its communities and empowers the CRE programs to continue its exceptional work for years to come.