Chanel College Old Students Unite as Marist Brothers Prepare to Return

Samoa — 14 November 2025 — A new chapter has begun for the alumni of Chanel College, as the Chanel Old Students Association (COSA) and the Chanel Old Students Trust (COST) merge under the single name COSA.

The unification was confirmed at a special meeting held in the Tatte Building Convention Center and attended by Archbishop Mosese Vitolio Tui, together with many former students of the college.

The gathering marked a significant moment of renewal—an opportunity for past students to unite in support of the college at a time when it faces declining standards and facilities in urgent need of repair. The meeting also underscored a major development for the future of Chanel College: the anticipated return of the Marist Brothers to resume leadership and management of the school.

A few years ago, the Chanel Uso Trust began raising funds for the restoration of essential school facilities, recognising the need for urgent action. Now, the unification of all old students under COSA strengthens this effort and prepares a solid foundation for the Marist Brothers’ return. Their re-engagement is expected to restore the school’s identity, discipline, values, and academic standards, which were hallmarks of Chanel’s most successful years.

For generations, Chanel College has been a cradle of leadership in Samoa, producing some of the nation’s finest politicians, chief executives, athletes, lawyers, doctors, public servants, and community leaders.

COSA is calling on all former students—locally and overseas—to join forces and help return Chanel to its glory days, academically, in sport, and across all areas of student development, as the Marist Brothers prepare to take charge once more.

During the meeting, key leadership roles were confirmed to guide COSA forward during this transitional phase. Archbishop Mosese will remain as Chairman until COSA is fully established and ready to operate independently. Supporting officers include:

Deputy Chair: Lautafi Purcell, former Member of Parliament
Treasurer: Tauiliili Aki Reupena
Secretary: Lepailetai Tosimaea Tupua

The interim Board, originally selected by the late Archbishop Mataleiga and consisting mainly of COST representatives, will continue in their roles until the Marist Brothers formally return to oversee the college’s administration and daily operations.

Archbishop Mosese emphasised the importance of strengthening all key structures—COSA, the Parents and Teachers Association, and the Archdiocese to ensure a unified and supportive environment for the Marist Brothers when they resume leadership.

He encouraged all former and current students to take part in this renewed movement. Registration is open at 50 tala, with proceeds contributing directly to COSA’s restoration initiatives.

To mark this fresh beginning, COSA will host its first official event, the Fellowship Dinner on 18 December at Leauva’a. All past and present students are welcome. Each class year is encouraged to purchase a table. Finger food will be provided and attendees may bring their own beverages. The occasion aims to reconnect the Chanel family and build momentum ahead of the Brothers’ return.

The unification of COST and COSA, combined with the anticipated return of the Marist Brothers, symbolises a revitalised commitment to Chanel College’s future—an invitation for all alumni to stand together, rebuild and honour the legacy of a school that has shaped generations.