Amanda Francel Blas

Amanda Francel Blas Administrative Supervisor Center for Global Learning and Engagement University of Guam

Amanda Francel Blas received a bachelor’s degree in sociology and communication from the University of Portland and earned her master’s degree in public administration from the University of Guam. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in public administration from Capella University with the intent of expanding the study of public administration and policymaking in the Western Pacific.

Over the last five years, Amanda has served in various capacities throughout the Government of Guam. She first entered the realm of public service as the Deputy Director of Communications for then-Governor Eddie Baza Calvo. For two years, Amanda worked with constituents, media outlets, government agencies, and various organizations at the local, regional and national level, providing invaluable information on pressing policy topics facing our island. Some of her greatest achievements during this time include her critical role as part of the communications committee for the 12th Festival of the Pacific Arts (FESTPAC), the largest cultural celebration of indigenous Pacific islanders: she served as the host for the video highlights and live broadcast of the FESTPAC opening ceremony produced by the Pacific Community (SPC), which was streamed to more than a dozen countries. She also served as the marketing chair on several occasions for the Magnificent Professionals (MAGPRO) Awards, a government employee and agency recognition program.

In 2017, Amanda was appointed as the Executive Director of the Commission on Decolonization, providing support to the Commission and its three taskforces: Free Association, Independence and Statehood. Amanda worked with the Commission to coordinate outreach efforts; develop education materials; and successfully digitize decades’ worth of resources on Guam’s political status journey, aiding the Commission in its mission of educating the people of Guam on the political status options available. She provided testimony at the United Nations’ Regional Seminar on Decolonization twice and provided the first digital testimony on behalf of a non-self-governing territory to the United Nations’ Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization Committee). Amanda also served as a presenter during the 23rd Micronesian Islands Forum, composed of the Chief Executives of Micronesia. During her time as the executive director, Amanda also had the opportunity to work with numerous United Nations ambassadors and was invited participate in the United Nations’ InterRegional Meeting on the Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) on the Samoa Pathway.

While serving as the executive director, Amanda was also tapped for the Guam Academy Charter Schools Council and was elected to be the

council’s chairwoman. Alongside the council, Amanda worked with the charter schools to develop standard operating procedures, budget protocols, and efficient processes for charter approval and renewal. Amanda remains a strong advocate for expanding educational opportunities for Guam’s students.

Today, Amanda serves as the administrative supervisor for the University of Guam’s Center for Global Learning and Engagement. In this role, Amanda has had the opportunity to support training for over 900 teachers from Guam and the CNMI; celebrate the graduation of two Certified Nursing Assistant cohorts; serve on the NAFSA Association of International Educators Hawaii & Pacific District Communication Teams; work with dozens of government agencies on projects; and assist with partnerships between the University and the Northern Marianas College. Amanda also serves as an adjunct professor for the School of Business and Public Administration.

Prior to her time in the Government of Guam, Amanda worked as a writer, reporter, copy editor, custom publishing coordinator, and marketing coordinator for various organizations within the private sector. She also has served in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Amanda is married to Kevin Castro, a lineman apprentice with the Guam Power Authority. She is the daughter of Kristine S. Blas and the granddaughter of the late Francisco and Cecilia Blas, who she describes as her greatest inspirations. She is grateful for her family, friends, colleagues and supporters – she dedicates her accomplishments to all of them.