(NMC) — Northern Marianas College recently held a handover ceremony for the collection of documents, records and other items belonging to U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan that he handed over and entrusted to the college, and are now part of the NMC Archives.
The donated collection features photographs from his time as a congressman, including pictures with former President Barack H. Obama, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and other high-ranking officials, as well as documents including bills and laws signed pertaining to and involving the CNMI.
“On behalf of NMC and the entire CNMI, we thank Congressman Kilili for this addition to the CNMI Archives. This historical record demonstrates the extraordinary impact his 16 years in the U.S. Congress has had on our community. Leading with integrity, compassion, and impact, despite the political divisive environment he worked in, he successfully worked with both Democrats and Republicans to benefit the CNMI with increased funding, critical legislation, and key policy achievements. Now, future generations will find insight and inspiration when they study this remarkable historical record of a true statesman at the CNMI Archives,” said NMC President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, EdD.
Congressman Sablan, the first and only U.S. representative from the Northern Mariana Islands, began his term on January 6, 2009, and has been reelected seven times. His political journey from the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to the halls of Congress exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to public service.
As a member of the Natural Resources Committee and the Committee on Education and the Workforce in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Sablan has advocated for increased federal support for schools, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure projects in the Northern Mariana Islands. His legislative achievements have significantly impacted the quality of life and opportunities for residents of the Commonwealth. Congressman Sablan was also the commencement speaker of the 43rd NMC Commencement Ceremonies.
“This work of the people belongs to the people, and at the end of my term in December I hope that my service in some way over my eight terms in Congress can continue to serve the people who have given me the greatest honor to work for them and represent them for all these years,” Congressman Sablan said. “The NMC Archives is the guardian for similar collections over the years, I hope that this information will find its way to someone who can use it after the 118th Congress and beyond.”
“We are honored to receive this significant collection of documents and artifacts from Congressman Sablan, which will serve as a valuable resource for future generations to learn about the history and development of the CNMI,” said CNMI Archivist and NMC Adjunct Instructor Raymond Muna. “The NMC Archives is committed to preserving and making accessible these important records, ensuring that the legacy of Congressman Sablan’s dedicated service to the Commonwealth is not forgotten.”
From left, Jessica Sablan Deleon Guerrero, Florence C. Sablan, Bernadette C. Sablan, Andrea Sablan, U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, Victorina Camacho Sablan, Frances Patricia Arriola, and Northern Marianas College President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, EdD.
From left, CNMI Archivist Ray Muna, Special Assistant for Administration Oscar M. Babauta, U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, and Northern Marianas College President Galvin Deleon Guerrero, EdD.
U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, center, signs the official deed of gift transferring the ownership of Sablan’s documents, records, and other artifacts to the Northern Marianas College. Also in photo is CNMI Archivist Ray Muna.
