At just 25 years old, the daughter of the Pacific and Samoa has achieved the remarkable milestone of earning two doctoral degrees.
At just 25 years old, Teuilealealofa Rose-Anna Saitumua Tafaoialii has achieved an extraordinary academic milestone, earning two doctorate degrees. Born and raised in Magna, Utah, she is the daughter of Rev. Elder Saitumua and Rosa Tafaoialii, and a proud full-blooded Samoan. Her roots trace back to the villages of Vaito’omuli, Palauli Savaii; Lalomanu, Aleipata; Fasito’o-Uta; Fasito’o-Tai; and Vatia, American Samoa.
Growing up, Teuilealealofa’s parents, both pastors, prioritized education and church, instilling in her a love for learning. Despite limited resources, she attended private schools throughout her life, starting with Good Shepherd Lutheran School for preschool and kindergarten, then St. Francis Xavier School, where she graduated as valedictorian, and later, Judge Memorial Catholic High School, where she excelled in volleyball, earning all-state honors and serving as team captain.
Her academic journey continued at York University, where she earned scholarships for both volleyball and academics, graduating with double Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Criminal Justice. She then pursued a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis on Forensic Accounting and Tax Law at Westminster University, completing the program in just a year and a half at the age of 22.
“don’t let money or how far your school is deter you from pursuing a degree. There is always help, you just have to ask for it and home will always be there- so go for it. Also, network. Meet new people, find mentors, seek individuals who inspire you and ask questions. At the end of the day, you are in charge of your own success, so seize every moment. Last but most importantly, keep God first in your life and love your parents!”
– Teuilealealofa Rose-Anna Saitumua Tafaoialii
Motivated to further her education, Teuilealealofa applied to multiple PhD programs and was accepted to all, including her dream school, the University of Washington. There, she achieved not one, but two PhDs: a Doctor of Accounting and a Doctor of Economics. Her thesis, titled “Ua Taunu’u,” reflects her passion for both fields and the connection between them.
Teuilealealofa attributes her success to her parents’ sacrifices and their unwavering support. As the youngest and only girl in her family, she developed a deep appreciation for learning, grounded in her Samoan culture and Christian faith. Her father’s motto, “always finish what you’ve started and do things to the best of your ability,” guided her throughout her academic journey.
Despite the challenges she faced in a predominantly white, male-dominated field, Teuilealealofa persevered. She overcame imposter syndrome by reminding herself of her hard work and dedication. She believes her achievements represent a win for Pasifika people, demonstrating that Samoans are more than just athletes or entertainers; they are scholars, capable of excelling in any field.
As an active member of her community, Teuilealealofa hopes to inspire young Samoans to value education and recognize that being educated is not only important but also “cool.” She encourages others to excel in their chosen fields and embrace their unique paths, knowing they belong in any room they enter.
“Amaris Leiataua, a Samoan lawyer; Talia Thompson, a Samoan film director; Vaoesea Leota, a Samoan media operator for the WNBA; Courtney Mesi, a Samoan choreographer for the live Moana movie; Maruseana Sititi, a Samoan model— these are a few who have excelled in professions most never seek to look for us as Pasifika people, but I do want them to get their flowers because some little girl needs that representation to know she too can do it. I hope we strive to be more than a statistic, and with God at the forefront of our lives we fulfill our parent’s dreams, let alone our own!”
– Teuilealealofa Rose-Anna Saitumua Tafaoialii
Teuilealealofa’s journey continues as she prepares to teach Tax Law to college students while working at one of the top three tax firms in the world. She also serves as the Co-chairman for the C.C.C.S. ekalesia aoao tupulaga talavou, emphasizing the importance of service (tautua) to her family and community. Her aspirations include using her thesis to impact fields of study and inspiring future generations.
Teuilealealofa’s story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of education. She is part of a monumental year for Samoan women, and her achievements stand as an inspiration to all.
Congratulations to Teu for this remarkable achievement! We wish her continued inspiration and success throughout her journey! Cheehoo!
