Kauai Community College | University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 System News /news News from the 东精影业 Wed, 20 May 2026 04:36:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /news/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-UHNews512-1-32x32.jpg Kauai Community College | University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 System News /news 32 32 28449828 东精影业 student, faculty honored for excellence in undergraduate education 2026 /news/2026/05/18/frances-davis-2026/ Mon, 18 May 2026 18:48:16 +0000 /news/?p=234348 The Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching recognizes dedication and demonstrated excellence as teachers of undergraduate students.

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word "Congratulations" over flower photo

The Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching for a faculty member and a graduate assistant recognizes dedication and demonstrated excellence as teachers of undergraduate students. It was established as a memorial to the late Frances Davis, who taught mathematics at Leeward Community College and the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa for 19 years.

Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant

Elisabeth Gallant
Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant

Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant is an assistant professor of geology at the University of Hawaiʻi Hilo. She teaches volcanology the way Hawaiʻi demands it be taught—with one foot in science and the other firmly planted in the communities that live alongside active volcanoes.

Since joining 东精影业 Hilo in 2023, she has revamped 东精影业 Hilo’s volcanology course offerings, using everything from M&Ms to knit fabrics to bring magma chambers and rock textures to life. Her students practice translating vog forecasts for civil defense officials, Volcano Village kupuna, and first-time tourists—learning that good science means nothing if people can’t use it.

Drawing on her work co-leading the national GeoSPACE accessible field camp, Gallant has made 东精影业 Hilo’s field courses more inclusive, ensuring students of every ability can do real fieldwork. She mentors undergraduates into published research with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and leads community talks during Volcano Awareness Month.

Student Steven Hammes said Gallant is “easily in the highest tier” of the dozens of instructors he has had across multiple colleges and universities, with a special ability to bring students of diverse learning styles, backgrounds and challenges to the same high standards of content mastery.

Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin

Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin
Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin

Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin is an assistant professor of anthropology in the division of social sciences at the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu, and serves as the director of the Applied Forensic Anthropology Certificate. Gruenthal-Rankin is a forensic anthropologist for the state of Hawaiʻi, whose research explores how forensics can better account for people often overlooked by medicolegal systems.

She is particularly passionate about the integration of critical social theory and community-facing work in forensic anthropology. Gruenthal-Rankin honed her teaching and mentorship pedagogy over 14 years of teaching in STEM, both in classrooms and in field environments. Her philosophy emphasizes sharing mutual respect, harnessing the excitement of learning, and allowing students to have a say in how classes are shaped.

According to the 东精影业 West Oʻahu Teaching Awards Committee, students describe Gruenthal-Rankin as kind, thoughtful and highly engaging, with many highlighting her positive, enjoyable learning environment. Committee members noted that Gruenthal-Rankin’s “qualities reflect a sustained and exceptional commitment to effective, inclusive, and impactful teaching.”

Lolita Pérez-Ayala

Lolita Perez-Ayala
Lolita Pérez-Ayala

Lolita Pérez-Ayala is a PhD candidate in the communication and information sciences interdisciplinary program in the College of Social Sciences at 东精影业 Mānoa. Committed to connecting theory to real-world contexts and fostering inclusive participation, she integrates sociotechnical research with organizational and business examples to promote applied learning and student agency.

Her courses examine the design and effects of information technologies and explore organizational and cross-cultural communication through real-world analysis. She gathers student feedback early and engages students in collaborative activities that apply course concepts to organizational cases. These practices encourage problem solving and move students beyond content mastery toward applied, reflective learning.

A nominator said, “Lolita possesses a remarkable ability to translate her expertise into meaningful learning experiences. She demonstrates exceptional skill in engaging students and fostering deep learning. Her courses are well organized and integrate a number of innovative tools to engage students. Lolita fosters critical thinking and bridges the gap between theories and real world experiences.”

Pérez-Ayala emphasizes student agency in selecting organizations or causes aligned with their interests, resulting in engagement with a wide range of local nonprofits, cultural institutions and businesses.

Shawn Sumiki

Shawn Sumiki
Shawn Sumiki

Shawn Sumiki is the culinary arts coordinator at Hawaiʻi Community College. He was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaiʻi, and is a 1996 graduate of the Hawaiʻi CC culinary arts program. After gaining experience in the culinary industry, he returned to his alma mater in 2006 as a lecturer, bringing a strong commitment to both his craft and his students.

In his current role, he mentors and guides students as they develop the skills and discipline needed for successful careers in the culinary field.

“Chef Shawn is truly in love with what he does, and it shows in every aspect of his work,” said student Amanda Klunk. “His passion for cooking, his dedication to feeding people, and his commitment to taking care of others are truly inspiring.”

Sumiki’s dedication to teaching and service has been recognized with the Outstanding Lecturer Award (2012–13), the Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Service (2019), and the Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching (2022–23).

Student Casey Chow said he looks forward to the week more than the weekend due to the nurturing environment and Sumiki’s encouragement.

Lisa M. Vallin

Lisa M. Vallin
Lisa M. Vallin

Lisa Vallin is an instructor in the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies in the College of Social Sciences at 东精影业 Mānoa. Her work centers on creating inclusive, engaging and socially relevant learning environments in sexuality studies.

With more than 15 years of teaching experience, she brings a research-informed and intentional approach, emphasizing critical thinking, cultural awareness and student-centered learning. Her classroom fosters a strong sense of community where students feel seen, affirmed and supported in exploring complex and often sensitive topics with curiosity and respect.

Through innovative assignments, community partnerships and guest speakers, students connect theory to practice and engage issues such as reproductive justice and HIV advocacy. Vallin is known for her approachable teaching style and commitment to equity and inclusion, helping students become informed and engaged community members.

“Lisa Vallin is a phenomenal professor. Every day, she had us all in the palm of her hand, completely enveloped in her presentations,” said a student. “I wish I could take a class of hers every semester. I have recommended her classes to everyone I can because everyone can benefit from learning from her and exploring the topics taught in her courses.”

Brian Yamamoto

Brian Yamamoto
Brian Yamamoto

Brian Yamamoto is a professor of natural sciences at Kauaʻi Community College. For more than 40 years, he has embodied the spirit of Frances Davis, an inspired teacher dedicated to sharing knowledge with undergraduates in natural sciences. Throughout his decades of service at Kauaʻi CC, his passion has never waned—whether in the lab, the field, meeting with a student or teaching at high schools.

His commitment to undergraduate excellence is evidenced by the robust success of the Academic Subject Certificate (ASC) in Hawaiian Botany. Through Yamamoto’s leadership, 46 early college students have successfully earned their ASC in Hawaiian Botany since 2022. He has a unique ability to connect botany to students’ lived experiences, such as helping Native Hawaiian students apply botanical knowledge directly to their own lōʻi (taro patch).

Yamamoto has said, “One must be willing to get dirty, feel the wind at your back, and explore with your senses wide open. Let nature be the teacher. Nature will always present the truth, we just need to interpret it correctly.”

A former student said, “His classes were the highlight of my college experience.” That student now aspires to become a teacher, because Yamamoto made learning so engaging.

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Board of Regents medals awarded for teaching excellence 2026 /news/2026/05/18/bor-teaching-2026/ Mon, 18 May 2026 18:41:52 +0000 /news/?p=234281 The Regents' Medal for Excellence in Teaching is a tribute to faculty members who exhibit an extraordinary level of subject mastery and scholarship, teaching effectiveness and creativity and personal values that benefit students.

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congratulations words on red flower

The Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching is awarded by the Board of Regents as a tribute to faculty members who exhibit an extraordinary level of subject mastery and scholarship, teaching effectiveness and creativity and personal values that benefit students.

Cara Chang

Cara Chang
Cara Chang

Cara Chang is an associate professor of English at Leeward Community College, where she teaches both developmental and college-level writing. Her classes focus on the writing and research process, critical thinking, and multiliteracies, with an emphasis on creating a culturally responsive space grounded in aloha for Hawaiʻi.

Through service learning and Hawaiʻi-based approaches, she encourages students to explore issues of sustainability and identity while feeling supported and connected to their communities.

Outside the classroom, Chang is an active campus leader. She serves as Faculty Senate chair, Writing Intensive Board chair and Sustainability-Designation co-chair, where she works to uphold strong academic standards and support student success. She helped develop the college’s strategic plan and continues to support its implementation.

Students often describe her classes as both challenging and supportive. One called her teaching “transformative,” noting how it reshaped their thinking about identity and responsibility. Chang credits her students, mentors and colleagues for helping her grow as an educator.

Leslie Crow-Kincaid

Leslie Crow-Kincaid
Leslie Crow-Kincaid

Leslie Crow-Kincaid is an assistant professor of general business and hospitality in the business and cybersecurity division at the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu. Crow-Kincaid’s approach to teaching and learning is built on the formula: Content + Context = Meaning.

Her classes utilize publisher content such as textbooks, online resources, videos, news and current events. Information is then applied to a business or personal scenario in which students can apply the material, encouraging them to become critical thinkers and gain meaning through the learning and discovery process.

The 东精影业 West Oʻahu Teaching Awards Committee noted that students commend Crow-Kincaid for being an outstanding communicator and highly approachable instructor. Her peer feedback highlights her coherent course organization, clear presentation of key concepts, and skillful use of problem-based learning.

Committee members added, “Her lively teaching style, which incorporates humor, helps sustain student interest and active participation, underscoring a strong commitment to impactful teaching.”

Teri T. M. Evangelista

Teri T. M. Evangelista
Teri T. M. Evangelista

Teri Evangelista is an associate professor of mathematics at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College. She is recognized for her exceptional ability to make mathematics accessible, engaging, and relevant for her students. Known for her patience and compassion, she consistently goes above and beyond to help students overcome their anxieties and build confidence in their abilities.

Evangelista creates a positive, energetic learning environment where students feel supported, even through personal hardships. She is praised for her skill in translating complex mathematical concepts into understandable lessons.

One student said, “My professor was amazing! She was so excited about math and said that she hoped to change our view on the subject and get us as students to love it. I can honestly say that she has changed my view of math. I had a bad experience with math in high school and just did not care for it. After taking this class it showed me that I just needed the right teacher. I really impressed myself because I actually understand math and found that I CAN DO IT!!! Thank you to my professor!! She is definitely in the right profession.”

Charlene S. Gima

Charlene S. Gima
Charlene S. Gima

Charlene S. Gima is an assistant professor of English at Honolulu Community College, who is noted for her commitment to student success and holistic well-being. She is exceptionally effective in online instruction, providing stimulating content through organized modules and virtual discussions.

Gima has expanded the curriculum by developing specialized courses such as “Okinawan Literature” and “Manga as Literature.” Her dedication is reflected in her high accessibility; she treats every student as a “whole person” and provides personalized mentorship.

One student nominator said, “Professor Gima’s dedication, clear instruction, and genuine personal support have significantly strengthened my writing skills… and boosted my confidence as a learner.”

The student also said that Gima “delivers content in ways that are both accessible and intellectually stimulating,” helping students thrive personally and professionally. Ultimately, Gima balances compassion with high academic standards to support her students in becoming the best possible versions of themselves.

Kekoa Harman

Kekoa Harman
Kekoa Harman

Kekoa Harman is an associate professor in the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo’s Ka Haka ʻUla O 碍别ʻ别濒颈办艒濒补苍颈 College of Hawaiian Language. For Harman, teaching ʻ艒濒别濒辞 Hawaiʻi is far more than language instruction—it is the continuation of a living culture.

A co-founding kumu hula (hula teacher) of 贬腻濒补耻 I Ka Leo Ola O 狈腻 Mamo and a scholar of the hula traditions of Joseph ʻ莫濒腻濒腻ʻ辞濒别, he brings mele (songs), oli (chants) and hula into his classrooms as primary texts, teaching students that ʻ艒濒别濒辞 and hula are inseparable threads of Hawaiian identity.

His students describe daily routines that steady them, prompt and thoughtful feedback, and weekly study groups where Harman shows up—sweet treats in hand. He takes learning beyond Haleʻ艒濒别濒辞 through community ceremonies, cultural protocol training, and 丑艒驶颈办别 (showcase) hula productions, and serves the broader community as president of the youth nonprofit No 狈腻 ʻ艑辫颈辞.

“He is a teacher that cares deeply about his students and has a passion for teaching rooted in the continuation of culture,” wrote nominator Sophie French. In every class, Harman embodies the spirit of aloha and the philosophy of Kumu Honua Mauli Ola (an educational philosophy statement prepared by a group of Hawaiian-speaking educators).

Pele Kaio

Pele Kaio
Pele Kaio

Pele Kaio is an assistant professor of Hawaiian lifestyles at Hawaiʻi Community College. He is an educator, cultural practitioner and community leader dedicated to advancing Indigenous knowledge systems and leadership.

Kaio serves as kumu hula (hula teacher) of Unulau, a 丑腻濒补耻 based in Hilo and Waimea, where he guides 丑补耻尘腻苍补 (students) in ʻaihaʻa (volcanic style) traditions that foster 驶颈办别 Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian knowledge), environmental stewardship and leadership. He is also president and founder of the 笔腻濒补尘补 Foundation, supporting Native Hawaiian communities through education and cultural initiatives.

“He focuses on moving the spirit, and in doing so, he transformed ours,” said a student.

Kaio also serves as a resource teacher at Kanu O Ka ʻ膧颈苍补 Public Charter School and teaches at the 碍艒 Education Center in Honokaʻa, advancing community-based, place-centered learning.

A student said, “He concurrently weaves accountability into our moral compass, kindling awareness of our relationships with each other, with our environment, and with the world.”

Cheehyung Harrison Kim

Cheehyung Harrison Kim
Cheehyung Harrison Kim

Cheehyung Harrison Kim is an associate professor of history in the College of Arts, Languages and Letters at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. His teaching is shaped by a transnational perspective and a commitment to dialogue, empathy and student growth. His classrooms use discussion-driven inquiry to explore global histories, including topics such as North Korea, while encouraging students to question assumptions and reflect on lived experiences of power and constraint.

Guided by a philosophy of “equate, empathize and empower,” he fosters environments where students engage history as both an intellectual and personal practice. Kim emphasizes critical thinking, open expression and the connection between past and present. He also prioritizes creativity and research, supporting students in developing original projects that often lead to competitive awards and further study.

Through close mentorship, Kim helps students connect academic inquiry to careers in law, education, public policy and other fields.

“This class taught me how to quickly and effectively process the main argument and most important supporting pieces of evidence in history studies, a skill that I have already applied to my reviews of historiography across a variety of subjects,” said a student. “This training I will not only remember, but will constantly apply to my own work moving forward.”

Ryan J. Koo

Ryan J. Koo
Ryan J. Koo

Ryan Koo is a professor of history at Windward Community College, who is recognized for his engaging teaching, commitment to student success, and meaningful contributions to both campus and community. His courses encourage students to critically examine the past while drawing connections to contemporary issues, fostering thoughtful discussion and deeper understanding.

Students describe his classroom as one that promotes reflection and genuine connection, noting that “He gave us the space to be vulnerable and honest, turning a history lesson into a moment of genuine connection that I don’t think any of us will forget.”

Beyond the classroom, Koo serves as coordinator of Hawaiʻi History Day, supporting students and teachers statewide in developing research projects grounded in primary and secondary sources. He also advises the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, helping lead service initiatives that connect academic learning with civic engagement.

His teaching empowers students to think critically, engage meaningfully, and contribute to the communities they serve.

Chancellor Ardis Eschenberg said, “Professor Koo exemplifies Windward Community College’s commitment to teaching that expands opportunity and strengthens our Koʻolau community.”

Mark Ombrello

Mark Ombrello
Mark Ombrello

Mark Ombrello is an assistant professor of history at Kauaʻi Community College. His teaching emphasizes a student-centered approach, incorporating low-pressure assessments designed to support meaningful learning.

Recognizing the evolving challenges of teaching and evaluating students in the age of AI, Ombrello has reexamined the importance of soft skills in education. He emphasizes that “maintaining mindfulness of our behavior—acting with kindness, respect, and patience—makes all the difference in building and sustaining healthy relationships that foster rewarding and sustainable learning environments.”

As an asynchronous instructor, his student evaluations are consistently excellent across all categories.

Deeply engaged with both the college and the broader island community, Ombrello has made numerous valuable contributions to Kauaʻi CC and the University of Hawaiʻi system. He previously served as faculty senate vice chair and currently holds the position of chair. In addition, he continues to lead the district History Day fair and has served as a board member for the Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities since 2021.

Sandra, a student, said, “Instructor Ombrello does more than just share facts; he teaches us how to think freely, how to question, and how to learn from the past to understand our present.”

Miyoko Pettit-Toledo

Miyoko Pettit-Toledo
Miyoko Pettit-Toledo

Miyoko T. Pettit-Toledo is an assistant professor at the William S. Richardson School of Law at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. Her teaching is defined by rigor, empathy and innovation.

Drawing on experience as a judicial clerk, practicing attorney and nonprofit leader, she brings civil procedure to life by combining doctrinal mastery with practical lawyering skills and critical inquiry. Her teaching challenges students to examine how legal systems function and whom they serve.

She is known for transforming the first-year civil procedure course into an engaging, collaborative experience through creative approaches such as student “law firms,” interactive simulations, and a “Procedure in Practice” writing lab.

A student said, “I love Professor Pettit-Toledo! I think she’s an amazing professor who cares deeply about her students. I’ve come a long way since the first day of law school, and I owe a considerable amount of my growth to her. She’s pushed me since the start and not just with civil procedure but in becoming a more confident, meticulous student.”

Pettit-Toledo is deeply committed to student success, mentoring with care and intentionality while maintaining high academic standards. By cultivating trust and community in the classroom, she empowers students to grow into thoughtful, justice-minded legal professionals.

Subhashni Raj

Subhashni Raj
Subhashni Raj

Subhashni Raj is an assistant professor in urban and regional planning in the College of Social Sciences at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. Her teaching is rooted in inquiry-based, student-centered learning and a commitment to equity and place-based practice.

Drawing on her STEM background and experience as an international scholar, she designs multi-modal courses that integrate systems thinking, experiential learning and transdisciplinary approaches to real-world planning challenges. Her pedagogy emphasizes scaffolded skill-building, critical reflection and collaboration. Through spatial labs, community-engaged projects and structured debates, she equips students with technical skills while encouraging critical analysis of power, justice and policy.

She is recognized for inclusive classrooms that center Indigenous knowledge, decolonize planning education and connect students to Hawaiʻi‘s communities. Beyond the classroom, Raj mentors students in research and professional development, supporting pathways into planning and public service careers.

“Dr. Raj was probably the best, most understanding, educated, well spoken, and considerate professor I’ve ever had. She communicated so well and taught very clearly,” said a student. “She also was so reasonable with all her deadlines, requests and lectures. She even gave us breaks, which were so appreciated, and allowed us to focus better on the material.”

Eirik Saethre

Eirik Saethre
Eirik Saethre

Eirik Saethre is a professor of anthropology in the College of Social Sciences at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. He creates discussion-driven classrooms described by students as both intellectually rigorous and deeply human.

His teaching engages students with anthropological theory through conversation, storytelling and original research, connecting abstract ideas to lived experience. Drawing on global ethnographic research, he grounds learning in real-world contexts and student inquiry.

A hallmark of his pedagogy is “ungrading,” which emphasizes reflection, intellectual risk-taking and growth over traditional assessment, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Grounded in decolonial, relational and care-centered approaches, Saethre fosters inclusive spaces where students engage topics such as health, sexuality, inequality and identity with curiosity and empathy. His courses encourage students to think with anthropology rather than only about it, shaping how they understand the world.

“Every part of this course was valuable. Dr. Saethre is the first professor to help me understand theory and how I can actually use it in a valuable way,” said a student. “The course materials chosen by Dr. Saethre complemented each other perfectly, made every concept easy to digest, and challenged me in ways I have not been challenged before in a theory course.”

Amy Shiroma

Amy Shiroma
Amy Shiroma

Amy Shiroma is an assistant professor in the Hospitality and Tourism Education Department (HOST) at Kapiʻolani Community College. She is recognized for her student-centered teaching, industry expertise and dedication to student success.

Drawing from her professional experience in Hawaiʻi‘s hotel industry, she connects classroom learning with real-world application through hands-on projects, role-playing exercises and industry-based instruction. Students describe her as patient, approachable and deeply invested in helping them grow both academically and professionally.

“Amy always extended time out of class to help out the students who may be concerned with the lesson or help students excel in the challenges they may have faced with the material,” a student said. “She was always an individual who wanted her students to strive, even if that meant extending her efforts outside of class.”

Another student added, “Amy is truly passionate about the hospitality industry and showing her students how hospitality changes the world for the better. She is someone who goes above and beyond for her students.”

Tamara Ticktin

Tamara Ticktin
Tamara Ticktin

Tamara Ticktin is professor of botany in the School of Life Sciences at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. Her teaching blends scientific rigor with creativity, collaboration and place-based learning. She reimagines the classroom as an active learning environment centered on inquiry, dialogue and hands-on experience.

Her courses integrate field-based learning, community partnerships and student-driven problem solving, enabling students to apply concepts in real-world conservation contexts. Drawing on global research and long-term work in Hawaiʻi, she connects students with diverse knowledge systems, including Indigenous and local perspectives, while encouraging reflection on ethics, equity and environmental responsibility.

She is known for fostering inclusive learning spaces where students are encouraged to share ideas, challenge assumptions and learn collaboratively. Through this approach, Ticktin cultivates both strong scientific understanding and a sense of purpose in addressing complex ecological and social challenges.

A student said, “She is a kind and wonderful teacher who makes me think about the class and the materials I am learning, she helps me feel passionate about the issues we are discussing, and makes me feel engaged with the material and see its applicability into real life.”

Kara Wong Ramsey

Kara Wong Ramsey
Kara Wong Ramsey

Kara Wong Ramsey is an associate professor at the John A. Burns School of Medicine. A kanaka ʻ艒颈飞颈 (Native Hawaiian) physician and neonatologist, she conducts her courses grounded in kuleana (responsibility), service and experiential learning.

In the neonatal intensive care unit, she teaches learners across all levels of medical training while also advancing public health education through outreach, including nationally recognized social media initiatives. Guided by ma ka hana ka 驶颈办别 (through doing, one learns), she emphasizes hands-on, patient-centered education that builds clinical skills, critical thinking and resilience.

As a leader in simulation-based education, Wong Ramsey creates collaborative environments where trainees develop confidence in high-stakes decision making. Known for her compassionate mentorship, she fosters trust, curiosity and professional growth.

As pediatric clerkship director, she has developed award-winning curricula and contributed to accreditation, faculty development and nationally recognized innovations in medical education. Wong Ramsey’s work prepares future physicians to deliver culturally grounded, high-quality care.

“Best preceptor ever! Amazing teacher and provided various learning opportunities from reviewing write-ups/topics in peds to seeing patients in the NICU,” said a student. “She created a safe learning environment and encouraged critical thinking of clinical data. I would be honored to become the type of MD Dr. Wong Ramsey is.”

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How Asher Griffith became ‘Mr. Everybody Knows Me’ at Kauaʻi CC /news/2026/05/15/mr-everybody-knows-me-griffith/ Sat, 16 May 2026 01:15:53 +0000 /news/?p=234400 How an electronics student grew into a confident, community-focused leader.

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Asher Griffith
Asher Griffith

When Asher Griffith walks across the stage in May to receive his associate鈥檚 degree in from Kauaʻi Community College, he鈥檒l be carrying much more than technical skills into his future.

group shot
Griffith pictured with other contestants and judges in the Kauaʻi CC Talent Show this year.

Griffith said his true passion lies in voice acting. This fall, he plans to transfer to the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree in general while continuing to explore creative opportunities in performance and entertainment.

His artistic interests grew through seven years in the Kauaʻi CC Jazz and Symphony Band and through involvement in theatre. But Griffith鈥檚 impact on campus extended far beyond the stage.

Leadership roles

group photo
Griffith pictured with the current student government body.

He served in multiple leadership roles within the Student Government Association, including treasurer, president and, most recently, human resources director. As student body president, Griffith focused on rebuilding communication between students and the administration, and revitalizing student life following the pandemic.

Student activities regained momentum, and campus engagement grew once again. Some of the events that were reestablished include the Halloween Bash, Ping Pong Tournament, Valentine鈥檚 Day event, and International Education Week. Griffith also worked to help student clubs become active again across campus.

“My motto when I was president was and is to keep growing,” Griffith said. “t鈥檚 what I tried to do for Kauaʻi CC—to try to make it better and better—and I also tried to grow myself as well.”

Encouraging others

people talking at event booth
Griffith chatting with students who attended the career fair this year about student government.

Griffith immersed himself in campus life, working as a student ambassador in the Student Life Center and serving as president of the gaming club. Through the club, he helped organize participation in an e-sports tournament on Oʻahu and encouraged students to get involved outside the classroom.

“A big highlight for me during my time here was all the friends I made, whether reconnected or new,” Griffith said. “Being able to be in a big community and to be able to develop my social skills was very impactful. I was really awkward in high school, and now I鈥檓 ‘Mr. Everybody Knows Me.’”

Other Kauaʻi opportunities

Although Griffith plans to move to Oʻahu to continue his education and pursue voice acting, he said the skills he learned in the electronics technology program will always provide opportunities should he return home to Kauaʻi. The program鈥檚 partnership with the Pacific Missile Range Facility provides internship opportunities.

He also recently began working with former Kauaʻi CC professor Jameyia Shamia to help build customized light-up signs for a startup business and is working on sound and lighting at the Kauaʻi CC Performing Arts Center.

Griffith is grateful for the opportunities, friendships and lessons that shaped him into a more confident version of himself.

He said, “Everything that happens in your life can be used as a growing experience, something you can learn from.”

—By Caitlin B. Fowlkes

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2026 legislative recap: Final outcomes for 东精影业 /news/2026/05/15/2026-legislative-recap/ Fri, 15 May 2026 21:38:06 +0000 /news/?p=234386 Considering the significant fiscal challenges and competing priorities facing the state, the University of Hawaiʻi ultimately fared relatively well overall.

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Hawaii state capitol interior

Aloha 东精影业 ʻohana,

Salaveria smiling
Luis Salaveria

The 2026 legislative session came to a close on May 8 and, considering the significant fiscal challenges and competing priorities facing the state, the University of Hawaiʻi ultimately fared relatively well overall.

Throughout the session, lawmakers were tasked with balancing reductions in federal support for critical programs, economic uncertainty driven by both national and international events, and continued efforts to maintain affordability for Hawaiʻi residents.

With those realities in mind, 东精影业 entered the session with a modest supplemental operating budget request focused on two priority areas: healthcare workforce initiatives and 东精影业 Mānoa Athletics. While the university did not ultimately receive funding for those requests, we appreciate the continued engagement and collaboration with lawmakers throughout the session.

We are also grateful that the Legislature largely maintained existing operating support for the university and continued to invest in capital improvement projects across 东精影业‘s 10-campus system.

The supplemental budget bill, HB1800 CD1, was approved by the Legislature and now heads to Gov. Green for final consideration.

Preserving tuition and fee reserves

During the session, proposals to utilize the university’s tuition and fee reserves to support other state priorities were under consideration. Through extensive discussions with lawmakers, 东精影业 was able to successfully communicate the importance of maintaining those funds to support student services, campus operations and future strategic investments across the 10 campuses, particularly at a time when reductions in federal funding are creating additional financial uncertainty for higher education nationwide.

There were two measures with fiscal implications for the university. The first, SB2602, would have required that any unencumbered funds in 东精影业‘s Tuition and Fees Special Fund (TFSF) lapse to the state general fund. This bill did not pass. The second bill, SB2921, transfers any excess balances from non-general funds to the state general fund. Although this bill passed the Legislature, it did not include any of 东精影业‘s funds.

NIL bill outcome

Unfortunately, Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) legislation intended to support 东精影业 Mānoa Athletics did not advance on the final day of session. The final compromise proposal, which 东精影业 supported, would have placed $1 million of state funds into an NIL endowment and allocated $1.5 million for immediate support for the upcoming season. The bill also required 东精影业 to use $7.5 million in tuition and fee reserves for NIL – $4 million for the endowment and $3.5 million for the upcoming season.

The House passed the bill, but it was defeated in the Senate by a vote of 11–12. A reference on the Senate floor to an email identifying 东精影业 concerns related to a previous version of the bill, not the version on the floor for a vote. 东精影业 will continue to seek funding for NIL in future sessions.

Operating budget

For the operating budget, 东精影业 saw a net reduction of approximately $3.8 million in general funds. At the same time, the Legislature added $319,000 in general funds for three positions at 东精影业 West Oʻahu, as well as $4.1 million in special fund ceiling authority for the Culinary Institute of the Pacific at Kapiʻolani Community College.

The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the original 东精影业 Board of Regents request, and the final legislative appropriation in HB1800 CD1, pending any line-item vetoes by the governor.

Category Board FY27 Legislature FY27
Healthcare Initiative $3,724,600  
东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Athletics $15,080,000  
Reduce funds for 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补   $(1,991,147)
Reduce funds for JABSOM   $(120,324)
Reduce funds for 东精影业 Hilo   $(301,413)
Reduce funds for 东精影业 West Oʻahu   $(154,233)
Reduce funds for 东精影业 Community Colleges   $(994,554)
Reduce funds for 东精影业 Systemwide Administration   $(258,392)
3 Positions and Funds for 东精影业 West Oʻahu   $319,000
Professional Master Classes for Culinary at 东精影业 Community Colleges (TFSF)   $4,169,328
Grand Total (General Funds) $18,804,600 $(3,501,063)
Grand Total (All Funds) $18,804,600 $668,265

Items in purple are Special Funded, not General Funded.

Capital improvement projects (CIP)

For capital improvement projects and deferred maintenance, HB1800 CD1 provided $126.5 million in general obligation bond funding and $20 million in special funds for projects across the 东精影业 System.

These investments will support important facility improvements, such as $11 million for 东精影业 Mānoa Athletics, infrastructure modernization and system-wide deferred maintenance projects that directly impact students, faculty and staff across the university.

The following table summarizes the final CIP appropriations:

Description Board FY27 Legislature FY27
东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Student Housing $59,250,000  
东精影业 System Renew, Improve, and Modernize (RIM) $100,000,000 $65,000,000
东精影业 Hilo RIM $30,000,000 $9,500,000
东精影业 Community Colleges Capital Renewal & Deferred Maintenance $30,725,000 $10,000,000
东精影业 West Oʻahu RIM $5,000,000 $3,000,000
东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Athletics Facilities $11,000,000 $11,000,000
东精影业 Community Colleges Minor CIP $30,125,000 $10,000,000
奥补颈办墨办墨 Aquarium $10,000,000 $7,000,000
Kapiʻolani CC Renovations for Health Program $4,000,000  
东精影业 Maui College Vocational Training Center Modernization $3,000,000  
东精影业 Maui College – Hale Modernization   $5,000,000
Waialeʻe Livestock Research Station Improvements (CTAHR)   $6,000,000
Total $283,100,000 $126,500,000

*The Legislature also added $10 million each in special fund ceiling for Minor CIP and Capital Renewal and Deferred Maintenance at the Community Colleges

Although these investments are significant, substantial needs remain throughout the university system. Addressing deferred maintenance and modernizing aging infrastructure across our campuses will continue to be one of the university’s highest long-term priorities.

While the legislative session has concluded, our engagement with lawmakers continues year-round. Next year will be the start of a new 2-year biennium budget, and we will continue advocating for the needs and priorities of 东精影业‘s 10 campuses while strengthening partnerships that help the university best serve the people of Hawaiʻi.

The governor has until July 15, 2026, to sign, veto or allow bills to become law without his signature.

Mahalo for all that you do to support our students, campuses and the mission of the University of Hawaiʻi.

Luis P. Salaveria
Vice President for Budget and Finance/Chief Financial Officer
University of Hawaiʻi

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Kauaʻi CC student rebuilds her life through carpentry and education /news/2026/05/14/kauai-cc-student-power-tools/ Thu, 14 May 2026 23:17:19 +0000 /news/?p=234311 A second chance at Kauaʻi CC transformed Crystal Santos鈥 life.

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When Crystal Santos was incarcerated, she realized her life was not headed in the direction she wanted. Determined to create a better future for herself and her family, she took her first step by enrolling in a carpentry micro-credential course through Kauaʻi Community College in 2024.

Smiling in front of door installation
Crystal Santos and classmate Lucus Baliaris-Rivera installing a door on a building made in class.

“When I got out, I knew I needed to do something for myself,” Santos said. “I was nervous and intimidated. I was 45 years old, and I hadn鈥檛 been in school for 29 years. I was afraid because there was this younger generation here. But once I got to Kauaʻi CC, so many doors and opportunities opened for me. Kauaʻi CC helped me through every doubt I had.”

Waiʻaleʻale support

Her connection to the college began through her daughter, who served as a Waiʻaleʻale Peer Mentor. Santos applied to the first-year support program that provides mentorship and guidance to students transitioning into college life.

Santos in action
Santos said she learned so much more than she expected to in the program.

Through the Waiʻaleʻale program, Santos found encouragement to apply for scholarships, helping her cover most of her educational expenses while building confidence in herself as a student.

“At first, I thought I wasn鈥檛 going to be able to learn anything,” she said. “But I pushed myself, and honestly, I learned so much. I gained knowledge, confidence and motivation. I鈥檓 ready to get back out there and start over.”

Greater opportunities for women

Construction and masonry have long been part of Santos鈥 family history, and working with her hands and building things for others feels natural to her.

“I like helping people,” Santos said. “I enjoy going out into the field and building things up.”

Santos using power tools
Santos plans to get a second associate驶s degree in business before opening her own business.

When she started in construction in her early twenties, Santos was often the only woman on the job site. Today, she sees greater opportunities and representation for women in traditionally male-dominated careers.

“The female population in these fields is growing,” Santos said. “It鈥檚 opening new chapters and new doors for women to say, ‘I can do this too鈥攁nd it鈥檚 fun.’”

Inspiration for the future

Santos will graduate in May with an associate in science degree in carpentry technology, and plans to continue at Kauaʻi CC, where she will pursue another associate驶s degree in entrepreneurial business. Her long-term goal is to earn a commercial driver鈥檚 license through Leeward Community College, and eventually open her own heavy hauling business.

She said the civil engineering technology components of the carpentry program had the greatest impact on her professional development and inspired her to continue earning additional certifications in the future.

“I have so much gratitude,” Santos said. “I can鈥檛 believe this chapter is coming to an end.”

By Caitlin B. Fowlkes

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Image of the Week: Shakas up! /news/2026/05/13/image-of-the-week-shakas-up/ Wed, 13 May 2026 18:00:06 +0000 /news/?p=234163 This week's image is from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.

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Rainbow Warrior National Championship Volleyball team with the fans in the stands

This week鈥檚 东精影业 News Image of the Week is the National Championship Rainbow Warrior volleyball team and the fans in the stands. Congrats ‘Bows and shakas up!

Previous Images
Got rice?
Everybody chill
J-Pop Demon Killaz
Bash splash
Mōʻī Wahine
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the 东精影业 ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next 东精影业 News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

  • .

Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other 东精影业 connection. By submitting your image, you are giving 东精影业 News permission to publish your photo on the 东精影业 News website and 东精影业 social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

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Photos: Congratulations spring 2026 UH grads! /news/2026/05/12/photos-spring-2026-uh-grads/ Wed, 13 May 2026 01:03:01 +0000 /news/?p=234049 University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 campuses across the state are celebrating its graduates this spring.

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U H West Oahu graduates
The 东精影业 West 翱驶补丑耻 2026 Annual Ceremony honored graduates on May 9, 2026 at the SimpliFi Arena at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.

University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 campuses across the state are celebrating its graduates this spring.

Keep checking back on the story as more images are added from the other 东精影业 campuses.

Meet some of our amazing graduates.

View photos from

All the photos can be viewed on the .

贬补飞补颈驶颈 Community College

Graduates celebrated the completion of their degrees and certificates during 2026 commencement ceremony at the Edith 碍补苍补办补驶辞濒别 Multi-Purpose Stadium in Hilo on May 15, 2026. Family, friends, faculty and staff gathered to honor the achievements of this year鈥檚 graduating class. (Photo credit: Dyllon Ching)

For more photos go to the .

 

贬补飞补颈驶颈 CC 笔腻濒补尘补nui

Students, faculty, staff and loved ones gathered at in Kona on May 16, 2026, to celebrate the college鈥檚 2026 commencement ceremony and recognize the accomplishments of this year鈥檚 graduates.

For more photos go to the .

 

Honolulu Community College

Spring 2026 Commencement at the 奥补颈办墨办墨 Shell on Friday, May 15, 2025.

For more photos go to the .

 

碍补辫颈驶辞濒补苍颈 Community College

celebrated spring commencement at the Diamond Head Theatre on May 15, 2025.

For more photos go to the .

 

碍补耻补驶颈 Community College

More than 1,200 attend the 61st Commencement at on May 15, 2026 to celebrate the graduating class of 2026.

For more photos go to the or the .

 

Leeward CC

celebrated their spring 2026 graduates at 奥补颈驶补苍补别 Moku and 笔耻驶耻濒辞补 locations.

For more photos go to the , , or the .

 

东精影业 Hilo

celebrated Spring Commencement on May 16 at the Edith 碍补苍补办补驶辞濒别 Multi-Purpose Stadium.

For more photos go to the .

 

东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

held two ceremonies for spring 2026 graduates at the Stan Sheriff Center on Saturday, May 16.

For more photos go to the .

 

东精影业 Maui College

Congratulations to the 东精影业 Maui College Class of 2026! On May 14, 2026 the campus had the honor of hosting an unforgettable spring commencement on the Great Lawn.

For more photos go to the or the .

 

东精影业 West 翱驶补丑耻

held it Annual Commencement Ceremony at the SimpliFi Arena at the Stan Sheriff Center at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 on May 9, 2026.

For more photos go to the or the .

 

Windward Community College

Windward Community College celebrated commencement on May 15, 2026 during a stormy day in 碍辞驶辞濒补耻 marked by heavy rain, lightning and flooding.

For more photos go to the .

 

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3 degrees: The Kauaʻi CC library at the heart of Alyssa Silva鈥檚 journey /news/2026/05/12/kauai-cc-library-at-the-heart-of-silva-journey/ Tue, 12 May 2026 22:58:05 +0000 /news/?p=234088 She went from high school student to careful steward through the Kauaʻi CC library.

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women holding book in library
Alyssa驶s work as a student employee led her to pursue a career in librarianship.

A decade ago, Alyssa Silva first stepped into the as a Running Start student. Running Start is a program that allows eligible high school students to take a college course at a University of Hawaiʻi campus as part of their high school coursework.

Silva headshot
This will be Alyssa Silva驶s third time walking the commencement stage.

Silva is preparing to cross Kauaʻi CC鈥檚 commencement stage for the third time to earn her master of library and information science degree from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. She was only 16 when she began her journey there, while attending Kauaʻi High School.

“I basically grew up in this library in terms of my career,” Silva said. “I came here when I was 16, and now I鈥檓 26.”

Silva earned her associate degree in accounting from Kauaʻi CC in 2019 before transferring to . She completed her bachelor鈥檚 degree in with an emphasis in in 2021, while residing on Kauaʻi. During her undergraduate years, she worked as a student assistant in the Kauaʻi CC library.

After graduating, Silva briefly worked in accounting before finding herself drawn back to the library. What began as a temporary position quickly turned into a permanent role. She credits University Center Education Specialist Rhonda Liu with encouraging her to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in library and information science.

2 women talking
Education specialist Rhonda Liu, left, encouraged Alyssa Silva to earn her master驶s degree.

Working in a small community college library has allowed her to develop skills across many areas while helping students feel welcomed and supported.

“We get students fresh out of high school, or students returning to school after a long time, and they can be nervous,” Silva said. “We鈥檙e here to help them become comfortable using the library and the school鈥檚 resources, and to give them a safe space to be.”

Indigenous librarianship

Throughout her graduate studies, Silva said courses focused on Indigenous librarianship had the greatest impact on her perspective and career goals.

“Libraries are based on Western ideas, and Indigenous knowledge doesn鈥檛 always fit neatly into those systems,” Silva said. “I feel like my way of contributing to our Indigenous-serving institution is by being a careful steward of what we have, continuing to learn from our community, and finding ways to make library spaces and collections more reflective of the people we serve.”

Meet more amazing 东精影业 graduates

In recent years, Silva has supported a variety of initiatives at Kauaʻi CC, including managing circulation operations, learning cataloging, and collection management while helping plan for future library projects and supporting projects connected to the Kikuchi Center.

“As an Indigenous-serving institution, archiving helps make these materials accessible,” Silva said. “It creates greater access for the community, especially for Native Hawaiian students, to connect with and work with these materials.”

Silva also recognizes the important role libraries play for local students at a time when many public school libraries on Kauaʻi face ongoing challenges and reductions in services.

“Sometimes students come into the library feeling intimidated,” Silva said. “I feel like making sure Indigenous, Pacific and local authors are represented and available to our students is crucial. It鈥檚 important for students to walk into a library and see something of themselves reflected there.”

Looking ahead, Silva is considering pursuing a second master鈥檚 degree in Indigenous language and culture education, history, anthropology or humanities to become a specialty librarian. No matter where her career leads, the Kauaʻi CC library remains at the heart of her journey.

By Caitlin B. Fowlkes

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Image of the Week: Got rice? /news/2026/05/06/image-of-the-week-got-rice/ Wed, 06 May 2026 17:45:46 +0000 /news/?p=233650 This week's image is from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补's Patrick Williams.

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Person in a I Heart Rice shirt harvesting rice

This week鈥檚 东精影业 News Image of the Week is from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补’s Patrick Williams, of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR).

Williams shared: “A team of researchers and students harvested rice at CTAHR‘s Waim膩nalo station as part of exploring if Hawaiʻi can grow rice again. Rice is a local tradition, but instead of growing it in the islands, we import more than 100 million pounds of it a year.”

Previous Images
Everybody chill
J-Pop Demon Killaz
Bash splash
Mōʻī Wahine
Cleaning up
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the 东精影业 ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next 东精影业 News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

  • .

Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other 东精影业 connection. By submitting your image, you are giving 东精影业 News permission to publish your photo on the 东精影业 News website and 东精影业 social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

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东精影业 spring 2026 commencement schedule /news/2026/05/04/uh-spring-2026-commencement-schedule/ Mon, 04 May 2026 23:57:53 +0000 /news/?p=233489 Graduates from across the University of Hawaiʻi 10-campus system will be celebrated starting May 9 and ending May 16, 2026.

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graduates

Graduates from across the University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 10-campus system will be celebrated this spring, starting May 9 and ending May 16.

Meet more amazing 东精影业 graduates

Thousands of graduates will celebrate at the ceremonies with family and friends. We ask that attendees and residents near the events plan ahead for traffic before and after the ceremonies.

Saturday, May 9

University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈鈥揥别蝉迟 翱驶补丑耻
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center

Livestream link (will become active during the ceremony)

Thursday, May 14

东精影业 Maui College
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: 东精影业 Maui College Great Lawn

Friday, May 15

碍补辫颈驶辞濒补苍颈 Community College
(PDF)

Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Diamond Head Theatre

Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Diamond Head Theatre

Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Diamond Head Theatre

碍补耻补驶颈 Community College
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Location: 碍补耻补驶颈 CC, lawn near Hawaiian Studies/Social Sciences Building

Leeward Community College
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: 笔耻驶耻濒辞补 Campus, Tuthill Courtyard

Windward Community College
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: Windward CC, Hale 驶膧办辞补办辞补

贬补飞补颈驶颈 Community College
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Edith 碍补苍补办补驶辞濒别 Tennis Stadium

Honolulu Community College
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Waikiki Shell

Saturday, May 16

University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 at Hilo
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: Edith 碍补苍补办补驶辞濒别 Multipurpose Stadium

University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 at 惭腻苍辞补

Time: 9 a.m.
Location: 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center

Livestream link (will become active during the ceremony)
College of Arts, Languages & Letters
College of Natural Sciences
College of Social Sciences
College of Tropical Agriculture & Human Resilience
贬补飞补颈驶颈nui膩kea School of Hawaiian Knowledge
Interdisciplinary Studies
School of Ocean & Earth Science & Technology

Time: 3:30 p.m.
Location: 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center

Livestream link (will become active during the ceremony)
College of Education
College of Engineering
John A. Burns School of Medicine
School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene
School of Architecture
Shidler College of Business
Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health

贬补飞补颈驶颈 Community College鈥摫誓灞舨钩静筺ui
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: 贬补飞补颈驶颈 CC 笔腻濒补尘补nui Campus, P膩nini Lanai

The post 东精影业 spring 2026 commencement schedule first appeared on University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 System News.]]>
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May 2026 anniversaries /news/2026/05/01/may-2026-anniversaries/ Fri, 01 May 2026 18:00:56 +0000 /news/?p=233303 The University of Hawaiʻi celebrates May 2026 faculty and staff anniversaries.

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congratulations text over pink image

The University of Hawaiʻi celebrates May 2026 faculty and staff anniversaries.

40 years

Hu, Esther M
Researcher, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Inafuku, Derek T
Vice Chancellor, Honolulu CC

30 years

Kumagai, Chrisjames K
IT Specialist, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Lozanoff, Scott
Professor, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

More anniversaries
April 2026
March 2026
February 2026
More anniversary lists

20 years

Clayton, Cathryn H
Associate Professor, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Imanaka, Teri R
Educational Specialist, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Jenkins, Thomas Y F
Building and Grounds Custodian, 东精影业 West Oʻahu

Koizumi, Lauren L
Administrative and Fiscal Support Specialist, 东精影业 System

Saeki, Lori Ann Y
Librarian, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Taketa, Charmaine Y
Budget Analyst, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Ye, Carrie K W
Fiscal Specialist, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

10 years

Andrade-Fujii, Colette
Student Services Specialist, Kapiʻolani CC

Moss, Evelyn M
Human Resources Specialist, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Saavedra, Rosary J R
Library Assistant, Honolulu CC

Saito, Jenna L A
Administrative Officer, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

Seto, Justin K K
Building Maintenance Worker, Kauaʻi CC

Taniguchi, Kelton R
Lab Manager, Leeward CC

Tavares, Kylie L T
Assistant Extension Agent, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

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One platform, better access: UH moves all online instruction to 尝补尘补办奴 /news/2026/04/30/uh-moves-all-online-instruction-to-lamaku/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:06:38 +0000 /news/?p=233378 The change is designed to strengthen the student experience across 东精影业's 10 campuses while improving data security and systemwide support for teaching and learning.

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two hands typing on keyboard

Beginning in summer 2026, all University of Hawaiʻi online classes—including hybrid courses with an online component—will be delivered through (LMS).

The change, required by adopted on April 1, 2026, is designed to strengthen the student experience across 东精影业‘s 10 campuses while improving data security and systemwide support for teaching and learning.

Providing students with single point of reference

Using a single LMS provides students with a consistent point of access for course materials, communication and grades, regardless of campus or department. This reduces the number of different platforms students must navigate and supports stronger engagement and success in online learning environments.

“Moving to a single learning management system makes it easier for students to stay organized and engaged in their courses, while also giving faculty a secure, well-supported platform for teaching,” said Kim Siegenthaler, senior advisor to 东精影业 President Wendy Hensel. “尝补尘补办奴 strengthens consistency across our campuses and helps ensure that both students and instructors have the tools they need for a successful learning experience.”

The move also enhances protection of student information. 尝补尘补办奴 meets 东精影业 Information Security policies and applicable data privacy requirements, significantly reducing the risk of security breaches involving course materials, grades and other sensitive information.

Faculty may continue using third-party instructional tools when appropriate, but those tools must meet 东精影业 policy requirements and be integrated through 尝补尘补办奴.

尝补尘补办奴: Lighting the path for learning

The Hawaiian word 濒补尘补办奴 means torch—the same torch represented in the 东精影业 logo—and symbolizes education and enlightenment, 濒补尘补办奴 o ka naʻauao. The platform reflects 东精影业‘s ongoing commitment to advancing teaching and learning through modern, secure and student-centered technology across the system.

Lamaku banner

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Image of the Week: Everybody chill /news/2026/04/29/image-of-the-week-everybody-chill/ Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:00:32 +0000 /news/?p=233273 This week's image is from Honolulu Community College's Shannon Fritz.

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Students and instructor smiling and flashing shaka

This week鈥檚 东精影业 News Image of the Week is from Honolulu Community College’s Shannon Fritz.

Fritz shares: Everybody chill. Students in the Honolulu CC Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Program get hands-on experience with a water-cooled chiller system after attending the Hawaii Buildings, Facilities, & Property Management Expo. Clockwise from far left: Jeremy Jennings, Professor Steven Chow, Joe Grummon, Pohaku Kaye, Awa Yerhot, D’Sean Watson, and Sage Le Akina.”

Previous Images
J-Pop Demon Killaz
Bash splash
Mōʻī Wahine
Cleaning up
Through the water
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the 东精影业 ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next 东精影业 News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

  • .

Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other 东精影业 connection. By submitting your image, you are giving 东精影业 News permission to publish your photo on the 东精影业 News website and 东精影业 social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

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Hawaiian Word of the Week: Maui Komohana /news/2026/04/28/hawaiian-word-of-the-week-maui-komohana/ Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:35:53 +0000 /news/?p=233276 Maui Komohana—West; Western Maui.

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—West; Western Maui.

More ʻ艑lelo of the Week

“Kaulana nui loa ʻo Mokuʻula i Maui Komohana i kona kapu loa. (Mokuʻula Western Maui is very famous due to its sacredness.)”

—Melelani Seiki, he haumāna ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language student), Ke Kulanui Kaiāulu o Honolulu a me Ke Kulanui Kaiāulu o Maui (Honolulu Community College and UH Maui College)

For more information on other elements of the definition and usage, go to the 东精影业 Hilo .

Olelo of the week

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Microsoft expert encourages ‘teach me, don’t tell me’ approach to AI /news/2026/04/28/microsoft-expert-ai-talk/ Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:47:36 +0000 /news/?p=233256 A central theme of Michael J. Jabbour's presentation was the importance of maintaining human direction as AI capabilities rapidly expand.

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graphic for the session

The University of Hawaiʻi community gathered for a virtual keynote exploring the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) on April 27. The event drew interest across the system, hosting nearly 500 attendees online.

Microsoft’s AI Innovation Officer Michael J. Jabbour led the session, focusing on human-centered organizational transformation and the intersection of human and AI in education and healthcare.

东精影业 President Wendy Hensel opened the webinar stating: “At the University of Hawaiʻi, we recognize the question is not whether we will embrace AI, but how we will do so. As you know, we’ve been setting up a systemwide AI initiative and conversation that we launched last year that we will scale significantly in the year ahead to educate our community on AI. As an example of this you may know we recently launched artificial intelligence for Hawaiʻi course which is a free 12-chapter interactive course accessible through the .”

A central theme of Jabbour’s presentation was the importance of maintaining human direction as AI capabilities rapidly expand. He warned that while AI can generate an infinite amount of output, humans must stay driven by actual outcomes. To foster critical thinking, especially among students, Jabbour shared how he encourages his own children to interact with AI models by instructing them to “teach me, don’t tell me,” ensuring that users maintain active agency.

“The only thing I ask you to consider, whether it’s with an AI or it’s with a human, is to think before you ask,” Jabbour said. “Because if you’re throwing ideas out there and asking the AI before you’ve thought, the AI‘s thinking now becomes your thinking and you don’t get a choice.”

Looking ahead, Jabbour noted that up to 70% of every hour worked could soon be automated, and that models are quickly matching human intelligence in specific tasks. With more than 60% of employers indicating they will not hire individuals lacking AI skills, he stated that educational institutions must adapt to avoid a big skills gap in training the up and coming workforce.

When asked how students can prepare for a workforce heavily impacted by AI, Jabbour highlighted adaptability, curiosity and human connection. He advised that the future of work will rely less on manual tasks and more on the human ability to clearly express goals and direct outcomes alongside AI.

The recording will be linked here when it’s available online.

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东精影业 Community College student marketers steal the spotlight in epic collab /news/2026/04/28/uh-community-college-student-marketers-collab/ Wed, 29 Apr 2026 01:26:59 +0000 /news/?p=233244 Energetic video gives 东精影业 Community College student workers their moment.

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group of students
Leeward CC驶s marketing team, known as “The Baddies.”

A new University of Hawaiʻi Community College collaboration shone the spotlight on a group often working behind the scenes: student employees in the marketing offices across the campuses

Led by Leeward Community College student Terrina Martin, the project brought together marketing teams from multiple campuses to create a short social media reel highlighting student workers. Each campus contributed a unique 5–7 second clip that was combined into a single video shared before the end of the spring semester.

“Student employees are basically the voice of our audience,” Martin said. “We get what our peers are into, what actually grabs attention, and how to make college feel real and relatable. This project was about showing that energy and giving student workers their moment.”

Understanding Gen Z

东精影业 Community College marketing offices are behind much of what students and the public see—from social media to advertising campaigns—quietly shaping how each college is recognized and understood. Student employees are essential to these efforts, bringing fresh ideas and a strong understanding of Gen Z communication styles.

“It鈥檚 easy to overlook how much happens behind the scenes,” said Leeward CC Marketing Specialist Tad Saiki. “Our student employees are not just assisting—they鈥檙e contributing creatively and strategically in ways that directly impact how we connect with prospective students.”

The reel didn’t just boost campus pride; it built a network.

Simolata headshot
Juhainah “Juju” Simolata, Hawaiʻi CC

“Being part of this made me feel like our work matters beyond our campus,” said Juhainah “Juju” Simolata, a Hawaiʻi CC student. “It鈥檚 cool to see how we鈥檙e all connected.”

Marketing leaders hope this collaboration is just the beginning.

“By working together, we can amplify our message about the value of a 东精影业 Community College education,” said Lesli Yogi 东精影业 Community Colleges marketing director. “And our students are leading the way.”

Students interested in working for their campus marketing office should reach out to their campus marketing coordinator.

—By Tad Saiki

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President Hensel outlines systemwide alignment strategy /news/2026/04/28/president-hensel-systemwide-alignment/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:42:27 +0000 /news/?p=233163 The strategy aims to create a more cohesive and effective university that better serves students and the state.

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University of Hawaiʻi President Wendy Hensel presented a coordinated effort to better align strategy and budgeting across the 10-campus system to the 东精影业 Board of Regents on April 16.

Hensel framed alignment as a core governance issue, emphasizing that strategic priorities must be consistently reflected in how resources are allocated in the budget, how campuses are evaluated and how leaders are reviewed.

A structured approach

President Wendy Hensel

Hensel highlighted challenges that are common in multi-campus systems, where individual campuses tend to operate separately. When alignment is weak, she said, strategic plans often sit on the shelf.

The result can be a system that underperforms despite strong individual efforts. Leadership, she noted, must regularly navigate tensions between aligning the 10 campuses while still allowing for individual campus missions to be pursued.

“We want an aligned system where we鈥檙e all moving in the same direction, but there are differentiated missions on each campus and specific priorities on each campus,” Hensel said. “We, as a group of 10 [campuses], have agreed on the major objectives that have let us have significant impact over time.”

To address those issues, the university is implementing a coordinated process centered on key areas:

  • Strategic action plans: annual plans tied directly to system and campus priorities, with defined outcomes, teams and resources.
  • Budget transparency: a clearer, multi-year budgeting process aligned with strategic goals rather than historical funding patterns.
  • Incentives: performance-based funding and stipends to encourage innovation, collaboration and student success.
  • Accountability: a standardized set of performance metrics and regular campus reviews to track progress and inform leadership evaluations.

The system also plans to expand leadership evaluations for officers, chancellors and administrators, including potential 360-degree reviews, and increase transparency through regular performance reporting.

Continuous improvement

Hensel concluded by emphasizing that alignment is not a one-time effort but an ongoing cycle of planning, measurement and adjustment.

“In order to move from a very decentralized approach to strategy across the 10 [campuses]; by setting alignment as a goal up front, it really enables the entire strategic plan to be executed,” she said.

The goal, she noted, is a more cohesive system that better serves students and the state.

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High-tech Kauaʻi CC internships protect ancient sites, prepare students for careers /news/2026/04/24/high-tech-kauai-cc-internships/ Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:58:44 +0000 /news/?p=232992 Digital ingenuity helps 碍补耻补驶颈 CC students save ancient sites and fragile artifacts.

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People looking at a screen
Reviewing data

Kauaʻi Community College is combining high-tech innovation with cultural preservation, offering five students paid internships while supporting local nonprofit efforts to protect Indigenous data across the island.

Image of the heiau
Render of the heiau

These interdisciplinary projects allow students to gain specialized skills, earn academic credit and explore new career pathways through hands-on experience. They are part of the University of Hawaiʻi‘s Office of Indigenous Knowledge and Innovation, which has established several Indigenous Data Hubs (IDH).

In one vital project, students are partnering with the nonprofit I Ola Wailuanui to aid in the restoration of Malaehaʻakoa heiau. Using drone technology, interns created 3D models of the historical site, which are now being used to inform and guide restoration efforts.

Person plotting data points
Plotting data points

“Building pilina (connection) with Malaehaʻakoa and listening to what its needs are for restoration and integration into modern-day functioning has been integral,” said Kauaʻi CC IDH Coordinator Kamalani Chock. “When we interact with the space, we treat the heiau as an ancestor that can help the community cultivate mana (power). What the process of mana cultivation means in the 21st century is what we’re meditating on.”

Digitizing artifacts

People standing around equipment
Tremonti instructing interns on photogrammetry

A second project involves students digitizing fragile artifacts at Kauaʻi CC’s Kikuchi Center. They are photographing from 360 degrees and transforming those images into a 3D model with an associated texture map, making them accessible for study and public engagement on the .

“I think it’s important to expand the scope of potential career pathways on the island,” Creative Media Program Coordinator Joseph Tremonti said.

Artifact image on a screen
3D render of an artifact

“Projects like this allow students to develop skills that can be applied to cultural heritage work, archives, and museum studies—fields where access to fragile materials is often limited. This opens up exciting opportunities for our students.”

Chock, who also teaches agriculture and natural science courses through Nā Pua Noʻeau (a pre-K–college enrichment program), emphasized the importance of connecting education directly to community needs.

“I think the future of education must be holistic,” Chock said. “It can’t be siloed into singular disciplines. Instead, it should recognize how these fields intersect and work together in our communities—especially in ways that support community health and well-being.”

artifact and equipment
One of the artifacts being photographed to produce a 3D image
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Image of the Week: J-Pop Demon Killaz /news/2026/04/22/image-of-the-week-j-pop-demon-killaz/ Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:37:34 +0000 /news/?p=232743 This week's image is from Windward CC's Nicole Tessier.

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Three actors posing

This week鈥檚 东精影业 News Image of the Week is from Windward Community College’s Nicole Tessier.

Tessier shares: J-Pop Demon Killaz and The Hangry Games are two world premieres presented by the students of Hawaiʻi Conservatory of Performing Arts at Windward Community College.

Satirizing the popular films K-Pop Demon Hunters and The Hunger Games, these shows will feature singing, dancing and combat! At Palik奴 Theatre April 24–May 3, more information at .

Previous Images
Bash splash
Mōʻī Wahine
Cleaning up
Through the water
Breeze block
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the 东精影业 ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next 东精影业 News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

  • .

Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other 东精影业 connection. By submitting your image, you are giving 东精影业 News permission to publish your photo on the 东精影业 News website and 东精影业 social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

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Hawaiian Word of the Week: Leʻaleʻa /news/2026/04/21/hawaiian-word-of-the-week-lealea/ Wed, 22 Apr 2026 02:01:27 +0000 /news/?p=232741 Leʻaleʻa—Fun; to have a good time.

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—Fun; to have a good time.

More ʻ艑lelo of the Week

E leʻaleʻa kēlā lā me kēia lā. (Everyday should be fun.)”

—Maluhia Nahuina, he 丑补耻尘腻苍补 ʻ艑lelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language student), Kulanui Kai膩ulu o Honolulu (Honolulu Community College)

For more information on other elements of the definition and usage, go to the 东精影业 Hilo .

Olelo of the week

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