A visionary, a student advocate and a podcast producer are among the outstanding, diverse students to be recognized for outstanding leadership. “Ka lama kū o ka noʻeau” (the standing torch of wisdom) is a traditional Hawaiian ʻōlelo noʻeau or proverb that symbolizes the passing of wisdom from one generation to another.
Each year, 东精影业 Hilo recognizes students who embody that virtue by showing extraordinary leadership on campus or future leadership potential.
On April 16, five students were honored by the at the annual Student Leadership Recognition Awards.
A committee of 东精影业 Hilo students reviewed the nominations and selected the awardees for this year’s virtual ceremonies.
Alakaʻi Award
Alina Ramos received the Alakaʻi Award which recognizes leaders who inspire, excite and provide commitment toward shared goals. Ramos is a resident assistant for the . She also is on the Relay for Life event leadership team. Ramos was nominated for her ability to organize, lead and keep the residence life student staff on-track. She took on mentorship roles and ensured that returning students felt comfortable and connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
ʻIke Pāpālua Award
The ʻIke Pāpālua Award, showcases leaders who have the gift of vision: Michael Taylor is the (URH) general manager. He is majoring in political science with minors in Japanese studies, computer science and history. Taylor was nominated and selected for his ability to see the potential and future of URH. Under his leadership, URH has almost doubled in staff, having the largest list of DJs in recent history. He has dedicated his time to building strong foundations for the organization. Taylor’s work includes branding, recurring programming, enabling access to live URH broadcasts online and as an FM broadcast in Hilo.
Kuleana Award
Allison Dupre earned the Kuleana Award which recognizes leaders who instill and motivate others toward solutions, have hōʻihi (respect) toward others and are effective communicators. Dupre is the program coordinator for the and a 东精影业 Hilo student representative for the 东精影业 System Commission for the Status of Women. She is majoring in business administration with a focus on healthcare management. Dupre was nominated and selected for her commitment to student-centered programming and services, with a focus on equity for marginalized communities. She created and advocated for institutionalized systems that will improve student life at 东精影业 Hilo, including securing funds and resources for reproductive health, menstruation equity and spaces for LGBTQA+ students.
Laulima Award
The Laulima Award is given to leaders who know the importance of teamwork, networking and collaboration: Lindsey Rohlf is a senior resident assistant in University Housing and is majoring in marine science. Rohlf was nominated and selected for her ability to foster and maintain community in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. She adapted and worked with her team to help residents who were being displaced and moved due to COVID-19 restrictions. Rohlf empowered other staff, developed community building opportunities, and brought her residence hall together.
Mālama Award
The Mālama Award, recognizes leaders who take care of others and community: Bruce Torres Fischer is a member of the and is a podcast producer for the podcast. He is working toward a master’s degree in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language). Torres Fischer was nominated and selected for his superior work with the strategic plan committee and his proposal and planning for the Ka Leo o ka Uluau podcast. His podcast brings people from across campus together, demonstrating his exceptional care for Hawaiʻi Island and the collective experiences of the 东精影业 Hilo community.
—By Lauren Okinaka, who is earning a bachelor of arts in communication with a minor in English at 东精影业 Hilo