Hometown: Aoa, American Samoa
Role: Senate Counsel, American Samoa Fono
Years of legislative service: Six
The best advice she’s ever received: “Life is too short for drama. It’s never too late to live happily ever after. Choose to be happy.”
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
I enjoy knowing I am participating in drafting and passing laws that better the quality of life for people in American Samoa.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I am proud of my ability to write the law in legalese so it does what we need it to do, but still be able to explain it in layman’s terms so people understand how it affects their lives.
Who or what inspires you?
My parents inspire me. At the ages of 77 and 76, they are still very interested in my work and often give me advice on my job.
What’s one thing you love about your territory?
I love that our territory still values our culture and traditions.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I am getting ready to read “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
For its “Staff Snapshots” series, State Legislatures News is asking legislative staff about their role in the legislature. To suggest a staffer for this series, please use the email icon above to contact Holly South.