In Saipan, the groundwork for establishing higher education began with the contributions of dedicated individuals and organizations. Before the Peace Corps’ involvement, the Micronesian school system was staffed by a total of 876 teachers, including 172 Americans and 704 Micronesians. Despite these numbers, the system for training Micronesian teachers produced only a small percentage of fully qualified educators according to U.S. standards. This inadequacy had a detrimental effect on the use of English as the language of instruction and the teaching of English as a second language in schools.
In 1967, the Peace Corps made a significant impact on the education system by adding 269 volunteers. These volunteers worked with local educators, officials, and community members to enhance the quality of education and provide much-needed support to local teachers. Their presence marked a pivotal moment for the educational landscape in Saipan, addressing critical gaps in teacher qualification and proficiency. [1]
Prior to the Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) becoming a Commonwealth in 1976, educational opportunities were limited but diverse. The Community College of Micronesia (CCM) played a key role by offering courses in the NMI and other locations. Notably, the CCM School of Nursing on Saipan. The University of Hawaii contributed to the research of Micronesian languages and the development of educational materials. Additionally, the University of Guam, alongside other institutions, was contracted to provide courses. Scholarships were available to students who could leave the islands, allowing them to pursue higher education elsewhere. [2]
The Rise of Northern Marianas College
The establishment of Northern Mariana Islands Community College on August 23, 1976, was one landmark initiative by the Northern Mariana Islands Department of Education. As the islands’ first higher institution of learning, it began by offering an associate of arts degree through the University of Guam. Instruction was contracted out, and local instructors were certified to teach if possible. [3]
Peace Corps volunteer and educator Kit Porter Van Meter left the CNMI to pursue graduate school following completion of her fourth contract in the Northern Marianas and was appointed as the first president of NMC. Her leadership and vision were instrumental in the college’s early development and success. (citation)
Documentation indicates that Van Meter was appointed president twice—initially by the NMCC Board under Executive Order 25 and later by the NMC Board under Public Law 3-43. The chief executive titles in the establishment documents evolved over time: “President” (19 January 1983 Public Law), “Dean” (March 12, 1981 Executive Order, with an amendment proposed on 11/26/82 to change the title from “Dean” to “President”), and “Acting Director” (23 August 1976 Proclamation). [4]
In addition to her role at NMC, Van Meter served as the State Director of Higher Education, representing the Commonwealth at US state-level meetings and interactions, as well as securing US grant funding. citation
By 1983, Northern Marianas College (NMC) had emerged as a cornerstone institution for higher learning in the CNMI. Established through legislation, NMC received candidacy for accreditation and began its transition to a permanent site. [5]
The Visionary Leadership of Kit Porter Van Meter
Kit Porter Van Meter’s professional journey began as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Northern Marianas, where she was instrumental in pioneering the Northern Marianas’ bilingual education program. Her dedication and expertise garnered recognition, culminating in her appointment as the inaugural president of Northern Marianas College (NMC). Van Meter’s visionary leadership provided the foundation for the college’s development and success, steering its evolution. [6]
Van Meter’s tenure included two presidential appointments—first by the NMCC Board under Executive Order 25 and later by the NMC Board under Public Law 3-43. The establishment documents reflect various titles throughout the years: “President” (19 January 1983 Public Law), “Dean” (March 12, 1981 Executive Order, with an amendment proposed on 11/26/82 to change the title from “Dean” to “President”), and “Acting Director” (23 August 1976 Proclamation). [7]
Medical kit inventory 1966.
Impact on the Community
The establishment of NMC was a monumental achievement, reflecting the growing demand for higher education within the NMI. As the college expanded its offerings, it provided local students with opportunities to pursue their academic and professional aspirations without having to leave the islands.
NMC not only addressed the immediate need for qualified educators but also contributed to the broader goal of socio-economic development. By providing accessible higher education, NMC played a vital role in enhancing the skills and knowledge of the local population, boosting the growing need for a local workforce, and creating newer industries.
The transformation of education in Saipan is a testament to the dedication and vision of those who worked tirelessly to improve the educational landscape. From the early contributions of the Peace Corps to the establishment of Northern Marianas College, the journey of educational transformation continues to inspire and empower the community.
[1] Training Program for Peace Corps Volunteers to Serve in Micronesia, June 26-September 2, 1967
[2] https://www.kpvcollection.com/higher-education-and-northern-marianas-college.html
[3]https://www.kpvcollection.com/higher-education-and-northern-marianas-college.html
[4]https://www.kpvcollection.com/higher-education-and-northern-marianas-college.html
[5] Ibid.
[6]https://www.kpvcollection.com/higher-education-and-northern-marianas-college.html and https://www.saipantribune.com/index.php/dr-kit-reminisces-about-nmcs-first-year/
[7] https://www.kpvcollection.com/higher-education-and-northern-marianas-college.html