Republican Speaker Frank Blas Jr. has confirmed that his running mate for the upcoming gubernatorial election will be Mary Okada, the retiring president of Guam Community College. Blas, who is currently serving his seventh term as a senator, shared this announcement with the Pacific Daily News on Saturday, emphasizing that more details will be revealed during an official event scheduled for 4 p.m. on January 20 at the Crowne Plaza Resort Guam.
Blas’s gubernatorial ticket will compete against fellow Republicans, Vice Speaker Telena Cruz Nelson and running mate EJ Calvo, during the August primaries. On the Democratic side, Lt. Gov. Josh Tenorio and running mate Sen. Tina Muña-Barnes are set to face off against Sen. Joe San Agustin and former senator Dwayne San Nicolas.
Mary Okada has made significant contributions to education in Guam. She became the first female president and CEO of Guam Community College in June 2007. Prior to this role, Okada held several financial positions within the institution, including vice president of financial affairs, controller, and general accounting supervisor. Her leadership has focused on advocating for the development and growth of career and technical education in Guam and the wider Micronesia region.
In recognition of her contributions, President Barack Obama appointed Okada to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in 2014. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in various higher education organizations, promoting advancements in educational opportunities for Pacific Islanders. As the campaign progresses, community members are encouraged to attend the upcoming announcement event and participate in discussions about the candidates’ plans and vision for Guam’s future.
