By Meghan Hickey and Maureen N. Maratita
Five years from the last A-List published by Guam Business Magazine sees both seasoned and fresh faces placing their fingers on the pulse of Guam’s economy and gauging the rhythm of the business community. The editorial board at Guam Business, along with outside counsel to weigh and tip the scales, hand-selected a variety of individuals across industries from both Guam and Saipan whose expertise in their fields, success in business and social and community relations enable them to analyze and contribute to the region’s corporate and economic climate.
Among the 2018 A-listers you will find power couples, family units and individuals who have strong teams behind them, contributing to their knowledge and success. Guam Business focuses on influential persons in the private sector but recognizes that there are those who it would benefit one to cross paths with within media and government or even private sector executives who are new to their positions or to the islands.
— Editor’s note: A-list members typically hold numerous affiliations past and present. Only major affiliations and honors are listed.
Guam
Peter P. “Sonny” Ada
President and chairman, Ada’s Trust & Investment Inc.
1983 University of St. Thomas
Serves/served as: chairman, Nanbo Guam Ltd., Guahan Insurance Service; director, ASC Trust Corp., Pacific Textile Laundry; vice president and vice chairman/director, Marianas Finance Corp., Pacifica Insurance Underwriters (Saipan); board member, Guam International Airport Authority, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Visitors Bureau; and member, University of Guam Board of Regents and Archdiocese Finance Council
Longtime local executive with expertise beyond his primary businesses of real estate and insurance.
David A. Alcorn and Lucy M. Alcorn
Vice president and CEO, respectfully, GFS Group
Experts in doing business with the federal government and restaurateurs.
Joe M. Arnett
Senior advisor, Deloitte & Touche LLP
Bachelor’s in accounting, Ball State University; master’s in business administration, University of Colorado
Serves/served as: board member and executive committee vice chairman and chairman of the Guam Chamber of Commerce and Armed Forces Committee; president, Guam Society of CPAs, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay; and member, American Institute of CPAs, Guam Society of CPAs, Property Tax Institute, Tax Executives Institute and Andersen Civilian Advisory Council
The tax guru.
Benson F.F. Au-Yeung
President and owner, Soft Pacific Inc., dba Benz Sign Supplies and Paradise Awning, and Cube Inc.; and vice president and shareholder, Dragon Inc.
1986 bachelor’s in computer science, University of Hawaii
Serves/served as: president, Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam; and member, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association and Guam Contractors Association
Honors: 2008 Small Business Administration Minority Champion Award
Keeping a steady hand on the tiller of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Guam.
Jose C. “Joe” Ayuyu
President and owner, MCA Guam LLC and JCA Inc., dba McDonald’s of Guam and Saipan
1975 bachelor’s in arts, University of Hawaii
Serves/served as: co-founder and president, Majuro Chamber of Commerce; chairman, Bank of Saipan, CNMI Tax Task Force, CNMI Foeign Investment board; vice chairman, Economic Development Loan Fund, Marianas Visitors Bureau; president, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; treasurer, Truk Chamber of Commerce
Honors: Rotary Club of Saipan Citizen of the Year Award, Congressional Commendation from U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho, 2017 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year, 1998 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year Award, 1990 Businessperson of the Quarter Award, 1984 Outstanding Young Men of America
Made a strategic move into Guam in fast food and real estate from his Saipan base.
Conchita D. “Chit” Bathan
CEO, Core Tech Group of Companies
Bachelor’s in accounting, St. Theresa’s College
Serves/served as: chairwoman, Guam Contractors Association, National Association of Women in Construction; and member, Guam Land Use Commission
Honors: 2014 Filipino Women’s Network in Founders and Pioneers Category
Creating an acceptable “standard” employment contract for hiring temporary Filipino workers.
Juan Carlos Benitez
Attorney; president, Washington Pacific Economic Development Group, Marianas EB-5 Regional Center; president of the board, Latte Training Academy
1989 Sacred Heart University, 1993 Inter-American School of Law
Serves/served as: co-founder and president, Young Hispanic Republican Association; executive director, Republican Party of Guam; board member, Republican National Committee, Republican National Hispanic Assembly; and member, National Asian American Pacific Islanders Council for Trump, Hispanic National Bar Association and American Immigration Lawyers Association
Has overview on issues and legislation, against a background of what is happening in D.C.
Chita A. Blaise
CEO, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross
Serves/served as: president, Rotary Club of Northern Guam, Guam Women’s Club and International Women’s Club
Ensures the Red Cross and its board stay relevant in the non-profit industry as the sector grows.
Eduardo A. “Champ” Calvo
Partner, Calvo Fisher and Jacob LLP
1978 bachelor’s in business administration, Menlo College School; 1981 juris doctorate, University of Santa Clara School of Law
Serves/served as: Chairman, Calvo’s Insurance Underwriters Inc., Guam Real Estate Commission; and board member, Bank of Hawaii, First Savings & Loan Association, Title Guaranty of Guam, Guam International Airport Association, United Micronesia Development Association and Guam Visitors Bureau
One of the next generation of Calvo’s.
Paul A. Calvo
Vice president and general manager, Calvo’s Insurance Underwriters Inc.
1983 bachelor’s in business administration, Menlo College School
Serves/served as: board member, Pay-Less Supermarkets Inc. and Guam Contractors Association
One of the next generation of Calvo’s.
Leonard P. Calvo
Vice president, Calvo Enterprises Inc.
1993 bachelor’s in business administration, University of Portland
Serves/served as: founding member, Edward M. Calvo Cancer Foundation
Maximizing Calvo assets, with a keen eye for real estate developments and trends.
Paul M. Calvo
Chairman and president, Calvo Enterprises Inc.
1958 bachelor’s in commerce, University of Santa Clara in California
Honors: 1992 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year
Still a force in the Calvo family.
Shelly V. Calvo
CEO, iTravel;
Serves/served as: advocate, Guam Homeless Coalition
Representing a leading LLC as well as other businesses.
Michael A. Camacho
Manager and registered agent, CAM5 Real Estate LLC, and president and CEO, Personal Finance Center and Camacho Investments Corp.
A finance and insurance expert.
Frank J. Campillo
Health plan administrator for Calvo’s SelectCare, Calvo’s Insurance Underwriters Inc.
Los Angeles City College; University of Los Angeles; Insurance Industry Training Programs, New York Life Insurance; Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow Designation, National Association of Life Underwriters; and Managed Healthcare Professional Designation, America’s Health Insurance Plans
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Chamber of Commerce; vice chairman, Committee to Get Guam Working; board member, Junior Achievement Program
Honors: various Insurance Industry Awards and Community Service Recognition Awards
Translates changing health care industry movement into success regionally.
George Chiu
Executive vice president, Tan Holdings Corp., CTSI Logistics; chairman, Asia Pacific Airlines, Take Care Insurance Co.; president, Century Insurance Co. Ltd., Blue Ray Petrolum, Cosmos Distribuing Co. Ltd (Guam and Saipan), D&Q Co. Ltd., Gemkell Corp., Luen Thai Fishing Venture Ltd.; and vice president and director, Asia Pacific Hotels Inc. (Guam and Saipan)
Bachelor’s in accounting and management, University of Guam; Certified Public Accountant
Serves/served as: director, University of Guam Endowment Foundation, Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam; president, Guam Chinese Association; board member, Guam Economic Development Authority; and member, Tumon Bay Rotary Club, Guam Society of Public Accountants and American Institute of Public Accountants
Oversees a breathtaking number of business units for Tan Holdings.
Joaquin P.L.G. Cook
Executive vice president, chief sales and service officer and interim president and CEO, Bank of Guam and owner, Byerly and Cook Corp., which does business as Rhino Linings Guam, and Ignite LLC, which does business as Crust Pizzeria and Napoletana
Bachelor’s in management science, University of California
Serves/served as: board member, IP&E Holdings LLC, ASC Trust Corp.; and member, Rotary Club of Guam and Guam Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals
Whatever happens with his mother’s bid for governor of Guam, is set for bank leadership.
LeAnn P. Crisostomo
Owner, Fizz & Co.
Steadily growing businesses on her own and in partnership with husband Robbi Crisostomo.
Robbi Crisostomo
Vice president and general manager, Harley-Davidson of Guam
Serves/served as: member, Guam Harley Owners Group and Guam Young Professionals
Steadily growing businesses on his own and in partnership with wife LeAnn P. Crisostomo.
Gener F. Deliquina
CEO, Coast360 Federal Credit Union; owner and director, Fusion Dance Studio
1992 bachelor’s in accounting, University of Guam; Certified Public Accountant, Guam Board of Accountancy
Serves/served as: director/officer, Guam Gymnastics Federation; treasurer, Association of Government Accountants, Guam Humanities Council; and member, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Women’s Club; Guam Memorial Hospital Volunteers’ Association, University of Guam Endowment Fund, Soroptomist International of Guam/Marianas
A leader in the credit union and financial services industry, growing Coast.
Elizabeth C. Duenas
Associate broker and owner, Remax Diamond Realty and regional director, Remax Micronesia/Philippines
1972 University of Guam, Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyers Representative, Certifed Investor Agent Specialist, Military Relocation Specialist, At Home with Diversity, E-Pro – Real Estate Technology
Serves/served as: national director, Guam Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors; president, GAR; chairperson, Inafa’Maolek; and director, Marianas Leadership Foundation
Honors: Two-time Realtor of the Year; Remax Awards: Lifetime Achievement Award, Hall of Fame Award, Chairman’s Award, Platinum Award and 100% Award
Has built a sizeable brand in the region, to include the Philippines.
John P. Duenas
President and principal engineer, Duenas, Camacho & Associates Inc.
1968 bachelor’s and 1971 master’s in civil engineering, University of Dayton
Serves/served as: chairman, Engineering Advisory Council of the Guam Society of Professional Engineer; member, Guam Society of Professional Engineers, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay and Guam Planning Council
Oversees a thriving engineering practice and its growth.
Ho S. Eun
Chairman, Core Tech Group of Companies
Bachelor’s, master’s in political science, Seoul National University
Serves/served as: member, Guam Contractors Association, Korean Association of Guam and National Unification Advisory Council of the Republic of Korea
Honors: Meritorious Award from the Republic of Korea sponsored by Department of Health
The many hands of his team keep Core Tech among construction industry leadership.
Juno Eun
President and CEO, Core Tech Development LLC
1981 bachelor’s and 1983 master’s in political science, Kyung Hee University; 1990 master’s in risk management, Pepperdine University; 1994 juris doctorate, Glendale University College of Law
Moving the islands’ construction foundation on the philosophy of “Do the Job Right”.
Pika P. Fejeran and husband Lenny J. Fejeran
Partner, Guahan Eats Inc.
Bachelor’s in public policy, management and planning, and master’s in urban planning, University of Southern California
Serves/served as: board member, Chamorro Land Trust Commission, Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce; and member, Guam Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Business Women’s Network
Honors: U.S. Small Business Administration Women in Business Champion of the Year
Building her business, together with husband, Lenny, and handling a controversial GLUC with calm.
Christopher K. Felix
President and principal broker, Century 21 Realty Management Co. Inc.
1981 Certified Property Manager, Institute of Real Estate Management; 1993 Certified International Property Specialist, National Association of Realtors; Certified Commercial Investment Manager, Commercial Investment Real Estate Institute
Serves/served as: national director, National Association of Realtors; director, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Catholic Social Services; chairman, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross; president, Guam Board of Realtors, Guam March of Dimes and Guam Rotary Club
Honors: Six-time Realtor of the Year, three-time Realtor’s Choice Award, Governor’s Guahan Award
A leading real estate expert, with expertise in acquisitions and management.
Marcos W. Fong
Group executive vice president, Foremost Foods Inc., Coca-Cola Beverage Co. (Guam), Glimpses of Guam Inc. and Nakicos Corp., dba Subway Restaurants and Chili’s Grill & Bar
2001 bachelor’s in finance and economics, University of Guam
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross; and member, Guam Business Partners for Recycling (iRecycle) and University of Guam Small Business and Public Administration Advisory Council
Leading a restaurant and wholesale distribution group that also includes the region’s leading communication company.*
Robert W. Haulbrook Jr.
President and CEO, GTA TeleGuam
Bachelor’s in marketing, Georgia Southern University; 2018 master’s in business administration, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Serves/served as: member, United Service Organizations, University of Guam School of Business and Public Administration Advisory Council
Has survived changing ownership and industry challenges.
James S. Herbert III
General manager, Triple J Five Star Wholesale Food Inc.
1988 bachelor’s in biology, Wake Forest University
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Tourism Foundation; vice president, Villa De Coco Homeowners’ Association; treasurer, Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association, Micronesian Chefs’ Association; and member, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam Marketing Association, Saipan Chamber of Commerce
Longtime board member of leading Guam civic organizations.
Charlie S. Hermosa
General manager, Guam and Micronesia, American President Lines
Bachelor’s in marine transportation, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; master’s in transportation, policy, operations and logistics, George Mason University; graduate of the U.S. Marine Corps Logistics Education Program, Penn State University, and the Executive Leadership Program, Cornell University
Serves/served as: board member, National Defense Transportation Association; and member, Guam Young Professionals and Northern Guam Rotary Club
Honors: Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Achievement Medal with bronze star, National Defense Service Medal with bronze star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal
Together with John Selleck, carving a significant customer shipping base in the islands.
Siska S. Hutapea
President, Cornerstone Valuation Guam Inc.
1994 bachelor’s in civil engineering, Trisakti University; 1997 master’s in real estate, University of New South Wales
Serves/served as: director, Guam Association of Realtors; president, Soroptimist International of the Marianas; founding member and president, Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce; and board member, Guam Chamber of Commerce
Honors: 2014 Small Business Administration Women in Business Champion
A regional real estate expert able to analyze trends.
Eric Ichioka
President, City Hill Co. (Guam) Ltd., dba The Guam Plaza Resort & Spa and JP Superstore
Steadily managing hospitality and real estate assets.
Bartley A. Jackson
Co-owner, Hotel Santa Fe Guam; chief operating officer and partner, B&G Pacific
Master’s in business administration, Columbia University
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association; and board member, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Visitors Bureau Tourism Education Council and Marianas Visitors Authority
A fount of institutional knowledge in tourism and more.
David J. John
President and chairman, ASC Trust Corp.
University of St. Thomas
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Chamber of Commerce; vice chairman, Guam Economic Development Authority; board member, University of Guam Endowment Foundation, GTA Teleguam and GEDA; and president, Rotary Club of Guam
Honors: 2016 Guam SBA Small Business Person of the Year.
A leading economic expert, who has grown his business and assets steadily.
Jay B. Jones
Senior vice president, Triple J
Bachelor’s in corporate communication, Elon College; graduate, Dealer Candidate Academy, National Automobile Dealers Association
Serves/served as: president, Saipan Chamber of Commerce, Guam Automobile Dealers Association; and board member, Saipan Free Trade Zone Authority, Rotary Club of Saipan, Commonwealth Automobile Dealers Association and Northern Marianas College Foundation
Honors: 2001 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year
Bringing modern automotive management to the islands.
Jeffrey B. Jones
President and COO, Triple J Enterprises Inc.
Bachelor’s in business, University of North Carolina
Serves/served as: director and chairman, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Armed Forces Committee; board member, Pacific Mission Aviation; and member, Anderson Airforce Base Civilian Advisory Council, United Service Organizations Guam Advisory Council
Honors: 2015 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year
Has a firm grip on islands economic issues of the day.
Ramona L. Jones
Chief executive officer, Jones & Guerrero Co.
1996 bachelor’s of international business and finance, University of San Francisco; certificate from the Great Books Program, Jesuit St. Ignatius Institute; graduate study program in theology and philosophy University of Oxford
Serves/served as: board member, Catholic Social Services; and member, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross, Guam Cancer Society, Guam Chamber of Commerce and Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce
Honors: 2016 First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine Businesswoman of the Year
One of the second generation of leadership, making her mark on a family business.
Robert H. Jones
Chairman and CEO, Triple J Enterprises Inc.
Serves/served as: director and chairman, Guam Visitors Bureau; chairman, Chamber of Commerce, Governor’s Strategic Economic Development Council
Honors: 2001 Guam Chamber of Commerce’s Business Hall of Fame, 2011 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, 2016 Rotary Club of Saipan Citizen of the Year, 1992 Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope Awards, 1983 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year, 2001 Guam Business Magazine Hall of Fame
Usually knows what will happen in the Marianas and why.
Leonard K. Kaae Sr.
Senior vice president and general manager, Black Construction Corp.
Serves/served as: member, Guam Contractors Association, Guam Trades Academy, Society of American Military Engineers, Community Assisted Policing Effort, FBI Citizens Academy, Guam Chamber of Commerce, United Service Orgainzations Advisory Council, Associated Building Contractors and American Concrete Institute and American Concrete Paving Association
Honors: 2017 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year; various company awards, including Guam Contractors Association Contractor of the Year award 15 times
Has led the Black group of companies to notable construction success and awards.
George Lai
President, Quality Distributors Guam and Saipan, Cal-Mar Foods of Oakland, Calif. and Haagen Dazs Shops of Micronesia
1984 bachelor’s in petroleum engineering, Texas A&M University
Serves/served as: president, Quality F.A., Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam; chairman, Guam Football Association, Guam Environmental Protection Agency; executive committee member, East Asia Football Federation; and board member, Guam Chamber of Commerce and Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association
Honors: 2015 U.S. Small Business Person of the Year
A leader of Guam’s Chinese community; among those responsible for bringing the group to prominence.
Jeffrey P. Larsen
Vice president, TakeCare Insurance Co. Inc., Veiovis and HCD, FHP Health Center
Bachelor’s in science, Southern Utah University; Six Sigma Greenbelt
Serves/served as: president, TakeCare Foundation; and member, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross, Guam Contractors Association, Guam Surgery Center, Pacific Islands Cohort on Cardio Metabolic Health Steering Committee
A leading executive in the healthcare industry.
David J. Lujan
Attorney, Lujan and Wolff LLP
1976 bachelor’s in political science, University of San Diego; 1979 juris doctorate, University of Notre Dame School of Law
Always associated with his most famous win (the Larry Hillbloom case), but active on behalf of a varied slate of clients.
Melanie R. Mendiola
Executive director, University of Guam Endowment Foundation; founder and project director, Farm to Table Guam
2003 bachelor’s in economics and East Asian studies, New York University; 2012 master’s in business, University of Guam
Serves/served as: chairwoman, Guam Young Professionals; secretary; Port Authority of Guam; and treasurer, Tourism Education Council and Young Men’s League of Guam
Honors: 2016 Reina A. Leddy Guam Young Professional of the Year
Taking her talents from the non-profit agricultural community in a new direction.
Monte D.M. Mesa
General manager, Guam Premier Outlets and Tumon Sands Plaza
Serves/served as: board member, Guam Economic Development Authority; and member, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay
An advocate of tourism, the Japan market and the nascent cruise industry.
Jason B. Miyashita
Managing director and senior vice president, investments, Raymond James and senior institutional consultant, Raymond James Institutional Consulting Services
Bachelor’s in economics, University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business; Certified Financial Planner Professional Education Program, Kaplan Schweser, Kaplan University
Serves/served as: member, Asia Pacific Association for Fiduciary Studies, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Guam, Saipan Chamber of Commerce, Palau Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay Guam and Pacific Club in Honolulu
Honors: InvestmentNews 2018 40 Under 40 Elite List, three-time On Wall Street Magazine Top 25 Regional Advisers Under 40, U.S. Small Business Administration 2015 Financial Services Champion of the Year, Guam Business Magazine The A-List, Guam Business Magazine 40 Under Forty, Raymond James & Associates 2018 Chairman’s Council Recognition
Part of the Raymond James leadership team and highly visible in the community.
Milton K. Morinaga
Managing director, PHR Ken Microneisa
University of Hawaii; graduet, Guam FBI Citizen’s Academy
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Visitors Bureau; vice chairman, Guam Economic Council; and member, Hawaii Realtor Association, American Motel and Hotel Association and Certified Hotel Administrator
One of the senior representatives of the Ken Corp. group in the region.
Derrick R. Muna Quinata
President and CEO, Monster Auto Corp., which does business as Guam Auto Spot, and Pacific Auto Group, which does business as Sixt Rent A Car
Bachelor’s in business administration, University of Guam
Honors: 2017 U.S. Small Business Administration Small Business Person of the Year
Adding shipping to success in the auto industry.
James I. Oehlerking
CEO, Pacific Telecom Inc., which does business as IT&E
1979 bachelor’s in computer engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana
Serves/served as: member, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Filipino Community of Guam, Rigalu Foundation and Korean Women’s Association
Ensuring IT&E moves forward in a highly competitive industry.
Monica Okada Guzman
CEO and managing partner, Galaide Group LLC
Notre Dame High School
Serves/served as: executive director, Guam Unique Merchandise & Art, Make-A-Wish Foundation Guam; director, Pacific Islanders in Communications; chairwoman, Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities; founding member, Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce; president and vice chairwoman, Guam Nikkei Association; board member, National Assembly State Arts Agencies; and member, Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam Contractors Association, Guam Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, National Association of State Art Agencies, GVB Cultural Heritage Committee and 2016 Festival of the Pacific programming committee
Honors: 2010 Guam Women’s Club Women of Movement certificate, 2011 Small Business Administration’s Women in Business Champion and the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, 2015 SBA Small Business Minority Champion of the Year
Translating Chamorro culture into successful exhibits at the museum and the Festpac circuit.
Andrew Park
Vice president, Pacific Petroleum Trading Corp., Pacific Energy Corp. and Pacific Produce Corp.
2003 bachelor’s in computer science, Boston College; 2004 master’s in computer science, Yale Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
Serves/served as: chairman, Chinese Chamber of Commerce; and member, American Culinary Federation, Guam Chamber of Commerce and National Unification Advisory Council
Actively managing businesses in a variety of industries.
Stevyn J. Radonich
Vice president and general manager, Smithbridge Guam Inc.
1977 fitting, welding and machining apprenticeship, Wellington Polytechnic School; 1995 Institute of Management certificate, Waikato University
Serves/served as: member, Guam Contractors Association, GCA Trades Academy, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Police Volunteers and Guam office of Veterans Affairs
A longstanding construction expert.
Mary P. Rhodes
President, Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association
1993 bachelor’s in public relations and advertising, Marquette University; 2013 master’s in business administration, University of Guam
Serves/served as: president, SKAL Club of Guam; founding member and secretary, American Marketing Association Guam Chapter; board member/advisory council, Guam HealthCare and Hospital Development Foundation, Guam United Service Organizations, Andersen Civilian, Guam Department of Labor Workforce Investment; and member, American Hotel & Lodging Association, National Restaurant Association, Guam Visitors Bureau, PATA Micronesia, Guam Tourism Foundation, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay and Public Relations Society of America
Longtime executive ensuring GHRA grows to benefit its members.
Judy C. Rosario
Government manager, Docomo Pacific Inc.; co-owner, Synergy Studios
George Washington High School
Serves/served as: secretary, tourism Education Council
A constant in young professional leadership.
Phillip M. Schrage
Senior vice president of group operations and leasing, Goodwind Development Corp. and Grandview Development LLC, dba Micronesia Mall and Tumon Bay Mall
Serves/served as: board member, Goodwind Development Corp.; member, International Council of Shopping Centers, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Guam Visitors Bureau and Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association
A longtime mall manager, also one of the representatives of the Philippines-owned group of Lucio Tan.
Jeffrey Schweizer
President, Asia Pacific Hotels and general manager, Fiesta Resort Guam
Serves/served as: board member and chairman, Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association; president, Skal Club of Guam; and member, Guam Chamber of Commerce
A longtime hotelier and GHRA board member.
John D. Selleck
Director of strategic planning and development, American President Lines
Bachelor’s in economics, University of California, Berkeley; master’s in economics, Columbia University
A member of the APL regional leadership team seen frequently out and about.
Katherine C. Sgro
Executive vice president and chairwoman, Pay-Less Supermarkets; treasurer, Calvo Enterprises Inc.
1981 bachelor’s in marketing, Santa Clara University; 1984 master’s in financial planning, Golden State University
Serves/served as: vice chairman, Guam International Airport Authority, Bank of Saipan; chairman, Tenant Relations/Air Service Development and Marketing; and member, Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Kamalen Karidat
Honors: 2006 First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine Businesswoman of the Year,
2009 Academy of Our Lady of Guam 2009 Hall of Fame Laureate, Progressive Grocers 2014 Top Women in Grocery award and 2017 Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce Most Influential Women in Guam
Overseeing yet more growth of the island’s leading grocery chain.
Frank S.N. Shimizu
President, Ambros Inc., Mar Pac Distributors Inc. Saipan, Shimbros International Inc. Palau and South Pacific Distributors, American Samoa
1961 bachelor’s in mathematics, Pomona College
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Power Authority; vice chairman, Consolidated Commission on Utilities; president, Guam Business Partners for Recycling; board/trustee member, Chamber of Commerce, BankPacific; and member, Guam Civil Service Commission, Guam Economic Development Authority and Association for Computing Machinery
Has managed to keep Ambros on an even keel despite continuous challenges to the wholesale industry.
Samuel V. Shinohara
Managing director of airport operations for Asia Pacific region, United Airlines
1996 bachelor’s in accounting, University of Hawaii
Serves/served as: treasurer, Guam Visitors Bureau; founding member, Foundation for Public Education; board member, Guam Sports Events Inc., Make-A-Wish Foundation Guam
Despite management oversight from Chicago, keeping the airline in community consciousness.
Keith J. Stewart
President, Pacific Rim Group of Companies
1991 bachelor’s, School of Architecture, Arizona State University; 1996 master’s in international business, Institut Superieur de Gestion in France
Serves/served as: member, Rotary Club of Guam, Guam Chamber of Commerce; and member, Fest Pac, Guam Contractors Association and Guam Visitors Bureau
Making his mark in the construction industry by bringing tough projects to fruition.
Daniel D. Swavely
Consultant, Daniel D. Swavely Consulting Services Inc.
1966 bachelor’s in park and recreation administration, Pennsylvania State University
1968 master’s in regional planning and economic development, University of Tennessee
Serves/served as: member, Guam Visitors Bureau Destination Management Committee and Yigo Municipal Planning Council
Known for his expertise in land planning and a distinguished slate of clients.
Darren N. Talai
Managing director, International Dining Concepts LLC, dba California Pizza Kitchen, Beachin’ Shrimp, Eat Street Grill and Hot Diggety Dog; and partner, Guahan Eats Inc., dba Pika’s Café
1987 California Culinary Academy
Building a stable restaurant group and probably not done yet.
Mark Tokito
Senior vice president, Bank of Hawaii
Bachelor’s in finance, University of Hawaii
Serves/served as: president, Rotary Club of Tumon Bay; secretary/treasurer, Guam Chamber of Commerce; and member, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross
Building the bank’s relationships in the region.
Edward G. Untalan
Senior vice president, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands region manager and Maite Banking Center manager, First Hawaiian Bank
1984 bachelor’s in finance and 1986 master’s in finance and investments, Manhattan College; 2008 graduate, Pacific Coast Banking School
Serves/served as: chairman, Cathedral Basilica Finance Council; member, St. Anthony Parish Finance Council, Guam International Airport Authority Board of Directors, Guam Community College Board of Trustees and Redemtoris Mater Archdiocesan Administrative Counsel
Leading a steady team at the bank.
Bernadette Valencia
Vice president and general manager, Guam and Micronesia, Matson Navigation Co. Inc.
Bachelor’s in aviation maintenance management, San Jose State University
Serves/served as: founding board member, iCan Resources Inc.; secretary, iRecycle; board member, Guam Chamber of Commerce, Employers Council, GCA Trades Academy; and member, Guam Chamber of Commerce, United Service Organizations, University of Guam School of Business and Public Administration Advisory Council and Anderson Civilian Advisory Council
Represents Matson throughout the islands (and knows a lot about them).
Sophia Chu Wigsten
General manager, Hyatt Regency Guam
Bachelor’s in business administration, University of Portland
Serves/served as: board member Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association, The Employer’s Council; and member, Guam Visitors Bureau and Guam Chamber of Commerce
Honors: 2016 First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine Businesswoman of the Year
Epitomizes the face of hospitality of the Hyatt and Guam.
Kim Anderson Young
President, Security Title Inc.
Providing expertise in real estate and complicated ownership issues.
Ronald Young
Secretary and treasurer, Security Title Inc.; president, Pelican Properties Inc.
Bachelor’s in sociology, San Jose State University; master’s in sociology and education, Goddard College
Rounding out the leadership team at Security Title.
Michael Z. Ysrael
President, Tanota Partners
Never without plans to upgrade Guam’s tourism offerings.
Saipan
Marian Aldan-Pierce
President, DFS Saipan Ltd.
Minnesota School of Business
Serves/served as: director, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; board member, Marianas Visitors Authority, American Red Cross CNMI Chapter; charter member, CHC Volunteers Association; and member, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, Tipiyeew Advisory Council, CNMI Council for the Humanities and InterPacific Fellows Advisory Council
Honors: Two-time CEO’s Good Citizen Award DFS Lighthouse Award, First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine Lifetime Achievement Award, Saipan Rotary Club Citizen of the Year, Supporter of Distinction of Youth Services in Micronesia and Palau, 2000 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year, 1999 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, Pacific Islands Magzine 100 Most Influential Businessperson in the Region/Pacific Leaders You need to Know, and 100 Most Influential Businessperson of the Century in the Region
A regional leader of DFS and Saipan tourism.
Roy Alexander
Owner and president, Alexander Realty & Development, Alexander Drilling Inc., Fast Cash Financial-Western Union
1987 bachelor’s in political science and government, University of Tennessee Knoxville
A real estate expert of standing.
Jill M. Arenovski
Executive director, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; owner, Saipan Snaps LLC;
Associate’s degree in applied science, Katharine Gibbs School
A steady hand on the chamber tiller.
James T. Arenovski
Owner, Island Training Solutions; president, Delta Management Corp. and Prime Group
Master’s in administration, Georgia Southern University; Certified Hospitality Trainer, American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute; Gitomer Licensed Trainer
Serves/served as: president, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; and advisor, CNMI Small Business Development Center and McRel Education
Honors: 2011 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year
A leading executive of longstanding in Saipan.
John Z. Arroyo
President and CEO, Bank of Saipan
Bachelor’s in business administration, University of Guam; master’s in business administration, Oregon State University
Serves/served as: chairman, Guam Land Use Commission; board member, Guam Chapter of the American Red Cross, Guam Banker’s Association, Hurao Inc., Guma Mami Inc., Junior Achievement Guam, University of Guam Endowment Foundation and the University of Guam Board of Regents
Taking his fiscal skills from Guam to Saipan.
Gloria C. Cavanagh
General manager, Pacific Islands Club Saipan
1988 bachelor’s in mathematics, Gonzaga University; accounting courses, University of Guam
Serves/served as: chairwoman, Marianas Visitors Authority, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands; secretary, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Committee, Northern Mariana Business Alliance Corp.; and member, Strategic Economic Development Council and Saipan Chamber of Commerce
Representing the hospitality industry and the NMI in a tough relationship with the federal government.
Shaun R. Christian
President, Star Marianas Air Inc.
Associate’s degree in liberal arts, Northern Marianas Academy; bachelor’s in business administration, University of Washington; associate’s degree in aeronautical maintenance technology, South Seattle Community College
Representative of the Marianas aviation passenger and cargo industry.
Derek A. Cutting
Founder and president, Latte Built Fitness & Nutrition LLC; and SSG-Combat Medic Detachment NCOIC, 1984th Army Medical Hospital, Army Reserve
Bachelor’s in small business technical management, DeVry University; International Sports Sciences Association certified personal trainer
Serves/served as: member, Saipan Young Professionals
Among the new generation of NMI leadership.
Michael W. Dotts
Attorney, Dotts Law Office
1984 bachelor’s, University of California, Berkeley; 1987 juris doctorate, Golden State Law School
Serves/served as: Criminal Justice Act Panel Attorney
Honors: 2016 America’s Most Honored Professionals and 2016 Martindale-Hubbell Notable Legal Ability & Ethical Standards
A leading member of the NMI legal profession.
Timothy W. Goodwin
Owner and operator, Pacific Rim International (CNMI) LLC
Bachelor’s in business administration, California State University
Among the longstanding members of the NMI real estate industry.
Juan T. “Juanpan” Guerrero
President, Insurance and Business Management Corp., dba Mita International Travel Agency; president, Juan T Guerrero & Associates Inc.
Serves/served as: board member and officer, Strategic Gaming Solutions Inc., dba Club C
Longtime businessman in the NMI.
R. Daniel Murrell
Senior vice president, Triple J Enterprises Inc.
Wake Forest University
Serves/served as: chairman, Boy Scouts of America Chamorro District of the Aloha Council; officer, St. John’s Episcopal School; and board member, Guam Employers Council
Growing Triple J assets in the NMI.
Nick Nishikawa
General manager, Hyatt Regency Saipan
Nihon University
Serves/served as: vice chairman, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands; and treasurer, Marianas Visitors Authority
Longtime tourism and hospitality leader.
Roman T. “Bo” Palacios
Business development manager, J.C. Tenorio Enterprises Inc.
2006 bachelor’s in international affairs and economics, George Washington University; 2012 master’s in finance and marketing, California State University, East Bay
Serves/served as: president, Commonwealth Cancer Association; and co-Founder, Marianas Young Professionals
A member of Joeten’s second generation with a finger on the NMI economic pulse.
Velma Ann M. Palacios
Director of network operations and engineering, Pacific Telecom Inc., dba IT&E
1991 bachelor’s in electrical engineering, Marquette University; 1996 master’s in business administration, Hawaii Pacific University
Serves/served as: deputy/acting executive director, Commonwealth Utilities Corp.; president, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; chairwoman, Kagman Community Health Center Inc.; secretary/treasurer, Northern Marianas Trade Institute; board member, State Workforce Development Board; and member, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Commission and Pacific Century Fellows Marianas Chapter
A telecom and community leader.
Alexander A. Sablan
Vice president, Corporate Business Development, Tan Holdings Corp.
Bachelor’s in business administration, Kansas State University
Serves/served as: chairman, Northern Marianas Business Alliance Corp., Past Presidents Council of the Rotary Club of Saipan, CNMI Contractors Association; president, Association of Seaport Tenants and Operators of Saipan, Inc., Saipan Chamber of Commerce, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands and member, Rotary Club of Saipan, Commonwealth Cancer Association and Kagman Komunidat Association
Honors: 14th CNMI House of Representatives Resolution, 2002 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, 1998 Rotarian of the Year
Involved in anything that will better the NMI economically.
Shirley Sablan
President and COO, Pacifica Insurance Underwriters Inc.
Dual associate’s degree in liberal arts and pre-business; bachelor’s in business administration and master’s in business marketing and human resources, Chaminade University
Serves/served as: community director, Stellar Marianas; board member, Lady Diann Torres Foundation; vice president, Northern Marianas Insurance Association; and member, Saipan Chamber of Commercer, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands and Rotary Club of Saipan
Honors: 2014 First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine Businesswoman of the Year
Among the next generation of the Tenorio leadership.
Jerry C.Y. Tan with vice president Ivan Quichocho
President, Tan Holdings; CEO, CTSI Logistics
Bachelor’s in accounting and management, University of Guam
Serves/served as: chairman, Pacific Century Fellows Marianas Chapter; vice chairman, Tan Siu Lin Foundation; president, Chinese Association of Saipan, Northern Marianas College Foundation; and board member, American Red Cross NMI Chapter and Saipan Chamber of Commerce
Honors: 2017 Northern Marianas Sports Association Sports Administrator of the Year, 2014 Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve Task Force Guam Eagle Award for Center of Influence, 2012 Mariana Islands Nature Alliance Green Company Award, Rotary Club of Saipan 2010 Citizen of the Year, 2009 Guam Business Magazine Executive of the Year, 2004 CNMI Society for Human Resource Management Employer of the Year and 2003 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year
Always worth listening to on NMI issues, especially tourism.
Norman T. Tenorio
President and CEO, Pacifica Insurance Underwriters Inc.
1974 bachelor’s in business administration, Marquette University; 1992 National College of Appraisal and Property Management; 1997 certified heavy truck specialist
Serves/served as: chairman, Commonwealth Telecommunication Commission; president, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; treasurer, Marianas Public Lands Trust; board member, Marianas Islands Housing Authority; and member, Governor’s Economic Development Task Force and Northern Marianas Insurance Association
Has institutional knowledge on business in the NMI.
Joaquin DLG. Torres
Victorino DLG. Torres
Vincent DLG. Torres
Attorneys at law, Torres Brothers LLC
A longtime bustling legal practice.
Robert C. Travilla
Co-founder and creative director, Tribe Marianas
2014 associate’s degree in transportation security services, Homeland Security Education
Serves/served as: member, Saipan Young Professionals and Marianas Young Professionals
Honors: 2017 Marianas Young Professional of the Year, 2018 Millenniium Falcon Award, 2nd Saipan International Tatu and Arts Fest 1st place for Best Portrait
Retail expert.
Michael A. White
Principal attorney, The Law Offices of Michael A. White LLC
1966 bachelor’s in political science, Pennsylvania State University; 1969 juris doctorate, Temple University School of Law
Serves/served as: chairman, Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Rules of Civil Procedure; and vice chairman, Northern Marianas Law Revision Commission
Honors: 2000 Gimmie Five Program Attorney of the Year, 1996 CNMI Foster Parent of the Year and 2003 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Humanitarian Award
Longtime legal expert, supportive of sporting endeavors in the NMI.
Tao Xing
Chief services officer, mass marketing and public affairs; Imperial Pacific International (CNMI)
Serves/served as: member, Rotary Club of Saipan
Represents the casino and its Hong Kong-based ownership.
Alex B.K. Youn
President of AC Pacific LLC
1998 bachelor’s in South East Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University
Serves/served as: board member, Korean Association of Saipan, Saipan Chamber of Commerce; and member, National Reunification Advisory Council
Honors: 2015 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year
Managing and growing his retail and restaurant group.
*Glimpses Publications is a division of Glimpses of Guam. Glimpses Publications is the publisher of Guam Business Magazine.
Correction: Edward G. Untalan’s title was corrected to senior vice president, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands region manager and Maite Banking Center manager. Other information was given in this story in the July/August 2018 print issue of Guam Business.
