SCC to Host Economic Forum, Just Two Days Away; CNMI Stakeholders Invited

SAIPAN, MP — With just two days remaining, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce is preparing to convene business and community leaders for its highly anticipated 4th Annual Economic Forum on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Kensington Hall at the Kensington Hotel Saipan, a proud Chamber member.

Doors will open at 7:30 a.m., with the Forum beginning promptly at 8:15 a.m. The program will run through 5:00 p.m., followed by a Networking Mixer from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., offering attendees valuable opportunities to connect across industries and continue meaningful discussions.

As one of the Chamber’s signature events, the Annual Economic Forum brings together business leaders, policymakers, industry professionals, nonprofit organizations, educators, and community stakeholders to address key issues shaping the economic future of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. With attendance continuing to build and seating limited, early registration is strongly encouraged.

This year’s Forum will feature expert-led discussions across five key sectors vital to the region’s long-term prosperity. The Tourism segment, moderated by Bart Jackson, will include a presentation by Jamika Taijeron, Managing Director of the Marianas Visitors Authority. The discussion panel will feature Kimberlyn King-Hinds, NMI Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives; Jay Merrill, President of Market Research & Development; and Ivan Quichocho, Chairman of the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands.

The Economic Diversification segment, moderated by Jay Merrill, will feature presentations from Merrill, Esther Muna, Chief Executive Officer of the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation, and John Hirsh, Board Member of the Northern Marianas Sports Association. Panelists will include Derek Sasamoto, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority; Vin Armani, Chairman of the Economic Diversification Committee within the Governor’s Economic Advisory Program; and Edwin Propst, Program Manager for Broadband Policy and Development.

The Workforce Development and Policy discussion, moderated by Jim Arenovski, will feature a presentation by Leila Staffler, Secretary of the CNMI Department of Labor. Panel participants include Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero, President of Northern Marianas College; Jodina Attao, Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Marianas Technical Institute; Dr. Lawrence Camacho, Commissioner of Education for the CNMI Public School System; and Kimberlyn King-Hinds.

Infrastructure development will be the focus of the next segment, moderated by Joe Guerrero. Presentations will be delivered by Bettina Terlaje, Chief Financial Officer of the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation; Esther Ada, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Ports Authority; and Ray Yumul, Secretary of the Department of Public Works. Edwin Propst, Program Manager for Broadband Policy and Development, will also participate in the discussion panel.

The final segment, Military in the Marianas, will be moderated by Brad Ruszala and feature a presentation from Edwin Aldan, Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan. Panelists will include Nadine Deleon Guerrero Kintol, Network Director for the Small Business Development Center Network; Edward C. Camacho, Special Assistant with the Commonwealth Bureau of Military Affairs and Joint Region Marianas representative; Aubry Hocog, Mayor of Rota; and Henry Hofschneider, Chief of Staff for the Office of the Governor.

Through these discussions, attendees will explore practical solutions, investment opportunities, and strategies aimed at strengthening economic resilience and supporting sustainable growth throughout the Marianas.

Chamber President Dr. Josh Wise emphasized the importance of the event, noting that collaboration and informed dialogue play a critical role in shaping thoughtful solutions and forward-looking strategies that will benefit the CNMI for years to come.

Registration remains open to business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, students, and community members who wish to take part in shaping a stronger economic future. Registration fees are $50 for Chamber members and $55 for future members.

To register, visit:
https://tinyurl.com/SCC4EconForum

For additional information, contact the Saipan Chamber of Commerce at (670) 234-7150 or email contactus@saipanchamber.org.

The 4th Annual Economic Forum reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to fostering collaboration, promoting business success, and advancing policies that support a vibrant, competitive, and resilient local economy.