Deep-Sea Mining Push: The Trump administration’s Marine Minerals Administration proposed a deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026—20-year rights across more than 31 million acres—prompting sharp backlash from scientists and environmental advocates. Faith-Led Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, citing ecological risk, scientific uncertainty, and cultural harm. Community Mobilization: “Stand with the Moana” drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation groups to the Utulei shoreline to oppose the leases through a peaceful, ocean-centered demonstration. Climate & Voyaging: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added one year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after NOAA-linked El Niño forecasts raised risks of typhoons and severe weather across the Western North Pacific. NOAA Scholars in D.C.: American Samoa’s NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI Scholars presented research in Washington, D.C., including ciguatera work and coral reef monitoring using ROVs and photogrammetry. Road Tech Upgrade: The Department of Public Works won a $19.3M FY2026 BUILD grant to modernize and rebuild the Route 001 corridor between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage and traffic-safety improvements. STEM Leadership & Connectivity: FCCLA delegates from American Samoa attended the national “ConneCTED” leadership conference in Washington, D.C., while ASTCA board leadership shifted with Molitogi “Moli” Lemana appointed to guide digital access and infrastructure. Health Research Spotlight: Dr. Mata’uitafa Faiai began a one-year postdoctoral fellowship after earning a PhD in chronic disease epidemiology at Yale, focusing on obesity and cardiometabolic risks among American Samoan adolescents.