A master of hula and Hawaiian music whose influence spans generations, Robert Uluwehion膩puaikaw膿kiuokalani Cazimero will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Hawaiʻi.

The Board of Regents approved the honor at its April 16 meeting at , following a request from Chancellor Carlos Pe帽aloza. The degree will be formally conferred during Leeward CC鈥檚 fall convocation.

“I never really thought about this before, and to have it happen in such a truly beautiful, humbling—and even overwhelming—way, I鈥檓 grateful,” said Cazimero. “I鈥檓 really happy to be here.”

东精影业 ties and cultural impact

Cazimero is widely recognized for his leadership of H膩lau N膩 Kamalei o L墨l墨lehua and his influence on generations of haum膩na (students), as well as his celebrated career in Hawaiian music. His work has helped strengthen the continuity and global reach of Hawaiian cultural traditions.

Throughout his career, he has been a steadfast partner to 东精影业, supporting its mission to nurture knowledge, improve cultural identity and inspire future generations. Across 东精影业鈥檚 10 campuses, he has shared his time and expertise through guest lectures, workshops, performances and mentorship rooted in a deep sense of kuleana (responsibility).

“His engagement with our campus community has provided students, faculty and staff with meaningful opportunities to learn directly from a master practitioner whose work bridges ancestral knowledge and contemporary expression,” said Keala Chock, a former student and Leeward CC vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Related story: Legendary musician Robert Cazimero opens exhibit with Windward CC students, January 2026

Cazimero鈥檚 engagement at Leeward CC reflects an enduring partnership in cultural learning and mentorship, helping to deepen students鈥� experiences with ʻike Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian knowledge). He is also the featured artist in Ke Kilo Lani, an exhibition presented by Windward CC that highlights his life, legacy and contributions through immersive cultural storytelling.

During the meeting, Regent Neil Abercrombie shared an emotional memory of seeing Cazimero perform for the first time at 东精影业 M膩noa鈥檚 Andrews Amphitheatre in the 1970s. Regent Diane Paloma also noted that she was among his students, reflecting his lasting impact as an educator and mentor.

The honorary doctorate recognizes individuals of national or international distinction whose contributions have had a significant impact in areas such as business, public service or scholarship.