Southern Utah University Welcomes First Students from Sia’atoutai Theological College Spring 2025

Published: November 19, 2024 | Read Time: 1 minutes

Cedar City, UT 

The seal of Sia’atoutai Theological CollegeSouthern Utah University (SUU) is proud to announce the admission of the first five students from Sia’atoutai Theological College, a prominent theological institution in the Kingdom of Tonga and the Pacific. This marks a significant milestone, as SUU becomes the first accredited public university to admit five students from the Pacific region in a theological discipline.

Students:

  1. Ms. Eukaliti, Meivila He 'Ofa
  2. Mr. Taufu'i, Lualala
  3. Ms. Filimoehala, Kaufoou I Langa Saione Sameini Lolinda
  4. Mr. Taufa, Mosese Faka'osimalanga
  5. Ms. Taumoepeau, Melekoloa Helotu Jr

The relationship between SUU and Sia’atoutai Theological College was established in 2015 through a study abroad program led by Reverend Professor Jonathan Holiman, Ph.D. and Professor Kevin Stein, Ph.D. from SUU’s  Communication Department. This initiative provided students the opportunity to earn academic credits in Intercultural Communication and Non-Verbal Communication, along with in-service credits. Sia'atoutai Theological College is currently under the leadership of Dr. Paula Onoafe Latu, Chancellor of the College.

Under the leadership of Dr. Stephen Allen, vice president for international affairs, SUU is committed to globalizing its campus. The number of Pasifika students continues to grow, reflecting high success rates and expanding opportunities for academic and other educational short-term exchange programs.

Dr. Sioeli Kavafolau Vaipulu, vice chancellor of Sia’atoutai, expressed enthusiasm about this opportunity, stating, "This chance for our recent graduates and staff to attend SUU for professional development is a blessing, not just for our students and college, but for our kingdom as well." He further noted, "Our graduates have attended many prestigious international universities in the United States, including UC Berkeley, Boston University, Claremont Colleges/Claremont School of Theology, Princeton, and Southern Methodist University. However, this is the first time they have been admitted to an accredited public university, specifically Southern Utah University."

SUU looks forward to welcoming these students as they continue their pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

Tags: Student International Affairs Community Academic

Contact Information:

Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu