(JKPL) — It’s not every day you come across someone who can manage a full-time career as a library director/chief officer of state library/NMI state librarian, while also serving as the president of the Pacific Islands Association of Libraries, Archives, and Museums and earning an academic degree all at the same time. But for Erlinda Cabrera Naputi, a 49-year-old Chamorro woman from Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, this feat has become a reality.
Despite her busy schedule, Erlinda recently graduated with an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Hawaii’s Leeward Community College with Honors. She received numerous accolades graduating with honors under Phi Theta Kappa, Alakaʻina Scholar, and a CNMI Scholar. She was also a graduate of the Library Leaders Excellence and Development 6 Cohort, which is a leadership and management development program from Canada and a graduate of Weaving a Net(work) of Care for Oceanic Collections: A Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Museum Institute. This achievement is a testament to her dedication to lifelong learning and her commitment to furthering her education, even in the midst of her demanding professional and leadership roles.
“I am incredibly proud of Erlinda for balancing her busy schedule and achieving this significant academic milestone,” said Vincent Sablan, administrative officer III. “Her determination and perseverance are truly inspiring, and I have no doubt that her new degree will only enhance her already-impressive skill set.”
In addition to her academic pursuits, Erlinda has also made significant contributions to the field of library science as the library director of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, president of the Northern Marianas Library Association, and president of PIALA. Her leadership and dedication to promoting literacy and access to information have earned her widespread respect and admiration among her colleagues and peers.
“I believe that education is a lifelong journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing as a professional. My goal was to graduate with my AA degree before I turned 50,” Erlinda stated. “Leeward CC has provided me with a solid foundation, bringing me one step closer to realizing this dream of earning a four-year degree. With a heart filled with unwavering passion, I embark on the next chapter of my educational journey. I thank my entire family, my children, my grandchildren, and most especially my husband Martin for their support. I thank my incredible Team Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, my friends, and everyone who supported and believed in me. I am so blessed. Si Yu’us Ma’ase.”
Erlinda’s story serves as a shining example of the power of determination, hard work, and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. Her success is a reminder that with dedication and passion, anything is possible.
The University of Hawai’i News covered Erlinda’s incredible academic journey and published her accomplishments earlier this month. See https://shorturl.at/orfEF
Erlinda Naputi
Erlinda Naputi
Erlinda Naputi
Erlinda Naputi with family and friends at Leeward Community College in Hawaii.
