Empowering Future Builders Through Education, Skill, and Purpose
The Bill Emmsley Jr. Scholarship Fund supports students of American Samoa pursuing careers in trades, vocational fields, and STEM—helping them build meaningful futures through knowledge, discipline, and hands-on skill.
Our Mission
The Bill Emmsley Jr.Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of a leader, educator, and builder
who believed in the power of both skill and knowledge.
Our mission is to support students of American Samoa pursuing careers in the trades,
vocational fields, and STEM disciplines by providing financial assistance and
encouragement to those who demonstrate discipline, initiative, and a commitment to
making a meaningful impact.
In the spirit of Bill Emmsley, we strive to empower those who build with their hands and
minds, and who will shape the future through both craftsmanship and innovation.
Scholarship Info
This scholarship is awarded annually to students who demonstrate a strong passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as vocational and technical trades that shape and strengthen our communities.
We seek individuals who embody the same qualities that defined Bill Emmsley’s legacy:
a commitment to excellence, a disciplined work ethic, and a genuine drive to learn, build, and contribute. Applicants should not only show academic promise, but also a clear sense of purpose in how they intend to use their education to make a meaningful impact in their field and community.
Whether pursuing engineering, information technology, applied sciences, or skilled trades, recipients of this scholarship represent the next generation of innovators, builders, and problem-solvers.
This scholarship is more than financial support—it is an investment in those who will carry forward a legacy of hard work, integrity, and the belief that those who build with their hands and minds help shape the future.
Scholarship Details
- Two $1000 scholarships awarded annually for
- Trades & Vocational Pathway
- STEM Pathway
- Funds may be used for tuition and other school related expenses
- Open to American Samoa Community College students
- Must be pursuing a degree in Vocational/Trades or STEM related field
Eligibility Critera
- Must be a resident of American Samoa
- Must be pursuing or planning to pursue higher education in technology-related field
- Must have a 3.5 GPA or higher with minimum of 12 credits hours per semester
Scholarship Details
- Two $1000 scholarships awarded annually for
- Trades & Vocational Pathway
- STEM Pathway
- Funds may be used for tuition and other school related expenses
- Open to American Samoa Community College students
- Must be pursuing a degree in Vocational/Trades or STEM related field
Eligibility Critera
- Must be a resident of American Samoa
- Must be pursuing or planning to pursue higher education in technology-related field
- Must have a 3.5 GPA or higher with minimum of 12 credits hours per semester
Work with Purpose
We believe that meaningful work, whether in the field, the workshop, or the lab—deserves respect and dedication. Every skill learned and every problem solved contributes to something greater.
Skill and Knowledge Go Hand in Hand
True progress comes from the combination of practical ability and critical thinking. We support both the trades and STEM because building the future requires both hands-on expertise and intellectual curiosity.
Discipline and Accountability
Success is built on consistency, responsibility, and follow-through. We value individuals who take ownership of their path and put in the work required to achieve their goals.
Courage to Take on Challenges
Like Bill Emmsley, we believe in stepping forward when others hesitate. Whether it’s pursuing a difficult field or solving real-world problems, progress requires boldness and resilience.
Commitment to Community
Education is not just personal advancement—it is an opportunity to give back. We support students who aim to use their skills to strengthen and uplift their communities, especially in American Samoa.
Build Something That Lasts
We value work that creates lasting impact—whether it’s infrastructure, technology, or opportunity for others. The goal is not just success, but contribution.
About Me
The Bill Emmsley Jr. Scholarship Fund was established to honor the life, work, and
enduring impact of a man who believed deeply in the value of education, practical skill,
and purposeful effort.
Bill Emmsley was not a man defined by titles alone, but by what he built, what he improved,
and the people he inspired along the way. Though modest in stature, he carried the
presence of someone much larger. He approached life with conviction, discipline, and a
clear sense of direction. He believed in doing things the right way, guided by principle, but
always grounded in practicality.
Throughout his career, Bill served in several leadership roles within American Samoa,
contributing to both government and education. Among his most meaningful contributions
was his role as the first Dean of the Trades & Technology program at the American
Samoa Community College. In that position, he helped shape a vision for technical
education that emphasized real-world skills, workforce readiness, and opportunity for local
students. He understood that not all success comes from traditional academic paths, and
that skilled trades are essential to building strong communities and sustainable
economies.
His passion for education extended beyond the classroom. He believed that opportunities
should be accessible, that hard work should be recognized, and that individuals should be
equipped with both the knowledge and the skills to succeed. Whether working in public
service, consulting on programs, or helping develop long-term initiatives, he consistently
sought to move things forward with purpose and intention.
Bill was also a man of action. He was not afraid to take on difficult challenges or pursue
ambitious ideas. He believed in having a vision and executing it, even when the path
forward was uncertain. His work reflected a deep understanding that progress requires
both planning and persistence.
At the same time, he valued balance in life. His philosophy of “work hard, play hard” was
not just a saying, but a way of living. He believed that dedication and discipline should be
matched with joy, connection, and celebration. That balance shaped how he approached
both his career and his relationships.
The Bill Emmsley Jr. Scholarship Fund carries forward these values by supporting students
from American Samoa who are pursuing careers in the trades, vocational fields, and STEM
disciplines. It is designed for those who are willing to put in the work, take initiative, and
build something meaningful with their lives.
This scholarship is more than financial support. It is a continuation of Bill’s belief in people;
their potential, their resilience, and their ability to shape the future.
Through this fund, his legacy lives on in the next generation of builders, problem-solvers,
and leaders.
Support the Scholarship Fund
Your contribution helps empower students of American Samoa to pursue education in trades, vocational fields, and STEM. Every donation directly supports future builders, leaders, and innovators who are committed to making a lasting impact.
Application Form
Have questions about the scholarship fund or want to learn how to support our mission? Reach out to us and we’ll be happy to connect with you.
Bill Emmsley Jr. Legacy Scholarship Application
Supporting students who demonstrate passion, discipline, and purpose in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and technical fields that strengthen our communities.