Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
About
Updates coming soon!
Team
CNMI Team
Cynthia Ferrari
Instructor, CNMI
My name is Cynthia Cruz Ferrari, and I reside in the CNMI, specifically Saipan. I completed my undergraduate studies in Psychology in the Philippines and obtained a Master’s degree in International Education from Framingham University. I have dedicated 22 years of my career to the Public School System, specializing in Special Education. Currently, I am employed at Marianas High School and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Center on Disability Studies, serving as a Curriculum Specialist. Throughout my tenure, I have worked extensively with students with diverse disabilities. Additionally, I have served as a coordinator and mentor for Project TEAMS for six years, which has now evolved into Project STEM. This program, the longest-running after-school initiative in the CNMI, caters to students with disabilities.
My overarching goal is to foster a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusivity within the educational landscape, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported on their academic journey. Furthermore, I firmly believe in the importance of self-care and find solace in indulging in hobbies, with watching K-Dramas being a personal favorite.
Rose Penaroyo
Instructor, CNMI
I have been an educator since 2003, focusing on General Science at Chacha Oceanview Middle School (COVMS), with two years of exposure teaching students with disabilities, focus on academics and sexuality health. My educator’s journey extends beyond the classroom, taking on a vital role in healthcare as a dialysis nurse at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation 2011-2015, serving the community in multiple capacities. And in 2015, being an educator evolving with a specific focus on Environmental Science has underscored a commitment to educating future generations about the importance of environmental stewardship. Additionally, I serve as a teacher mentor for Project TEAMS.
Emerson Bernabe
Tech Specialist, CNMI
I have a strong passion for advocating for students with disabilities. I have been in Special Education for 7 years now as a Teacher Aide at Marianas High School in the Northern Mariana Islands helping students recognize their skills by allowing them to reach their full potential inside and outside the classroom through initiatives like Project STEM, school clubs, and community outreaches done by our high school. I have been part of Project STEM for almost 4 years mentoring and engaging side by side with students. I am the tech-savvy member of our team that captures and creates experiment and lesson content through computer applications and digital media.
Internships
Application
Online student application: https://go.hawaii.edu/f8F
Download PDF student application: https://go.hawaii.edu/7rF