Editor’s note: Cabuyadao was commissioned as a U.S. Navy officer on December 19 and earned her bachelor鈥檚 degree from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 on December 20..

For Navy officer candidate Gellie Cabuyadao, the path to her December 2025 graduation from the reflects a deep commitment to service under extraordinary circumstances.

Cabuyadao will earn a bachelor of business administration in while completing training through 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 (NROTC). Injured during the New Year鈥檚 fireworks disaster in Salt Lake just after midnight on January 1, 2025, she returned to the scene to ensure her girlfriend and brother were safe and helped provide immediate care.

Selected in 2022 for the Navy鈥檚 highly competitive Seaman to Admiral–21 (STA–21) commissioning program, Cabuyadao is the program鈥檚 first active–duty Sailor to graduate from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 through NROTC.

A defining moment of courage

Just after midnight on January 1, Cabuyadao was inside a garage when sparks struck her leg and a sudden flash of fire surged toward her. The blast knocked her forward. “I felt intense heat on my arms, face and hair, and then everything went quiet except for a ringing sound,” she recalled.

She ran to safety, extinguishing flames on her clothing as fireworks continued exploding. Moments later, thinking of her girlfriend and brother, she turned back. “I just needed to find them to make sure they were safe,” she said.

Despite her injuries and the chaos of the scene, Cabuyadao located her loved ones, escorted them away from danger and helped provide immediate care until additional assistance arrived. She was later awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for heroic achievement, recognizing her courage, rapid response and decisive action despite being injured.

“The recognition has not changed how I see myself or how I act,” she said. “I do not consider myself a hero. My instinct was to protect the people I love.”

Six people died in the accident, and more than 20 others were injured.

Family, roots and early Navy service

Raised in Salt Lake by parents who immigrated from the Philippines, Cabuyadao credits her family鈥檚 sacrifices for shaping her sense of duty. With parents working long shifts to support the family, she learned independence early, often caring for her siblings and walking home through nearby military housing.

A 2016 graduate of Moanalua High School, Cabuyadao enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after graduation. She began her career as an information systems technician at Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific in Wahiaw膩, supporting satellite and telecommunications systems critical to Navy operations across the Pacific.

“That early experience showed me how essential my role is to mission success,” she said. “Leadership exists at every level. Commissioning felt like the right step because I wanted the responsibility of making final calls and leading others.”

Through the STA–21 program, Cabuyadao remained on active duty while completing her degree and training with 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 NROTC unit, blending academics with leadership development.

Balancing service, studies and resilience

Balancing early–morning physical training and military obligations with a full academic load tested her limits. She met the challenge with discipline, careful planning and support from her chain of command, NROTC staff, professors and peers to stay on track.

“Managing both responsibilities strengthened my confidence and showed me I can perform under pressure,” she said.

Fear is allowed to be there, but it does not limit me…I know I can move forward and get through what鈥檚 in front of me.
—Gellie Cabuyadao

Surviving the fireworks incident also reshaped her perspective. With support from family, friends, healthcare professionals and the community, Cabuyadao gave herself time to process the trauma.

“Fear is allowed to be there, but it does not limit me,” she said. “I know I can move forward and get through what鈥檚 in front of me.”

Graduating from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 carries additional significance. Cabuyadao is the first Filipina American, first woman and first commissioned officer in her family to hold this milestone.

“I hope my journey shows that people from communities like mine belong in these spaces, and their stories and perseverance matter,” she said.

Looking ahead, Cabuyadao plans to take on every opportunity the Navy offers—traveling widely, holding herself to high standards and leading by example.

“As a leader, I want to challenge Sailors to be comfortable getting uncomfortable,” she said. “Long–term mission success depends on mental resilience as much as physical readiness.”

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 (NROTC) marked a historic milestone by commissioning its first three Marine Corps officers during a ceremony aboard the USS Missouri on May 22. As Hawaiʻi鈥檚 only university with a Marine Corps NROTC program, the event marks a major step for the state.

2nd Lt. Abraham Palacios, 2nd Lt. Anthony Tirao, 2nd Lt. Kealoha Yamaguchi and Ensign Robert Nelson received their gold bars, symbolizing their new ranks as U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy officers, respectively.

“This has been a historic year at University of Hawaiʻi NROTC, and we couldn鈥檛 be prouder of each of our midshipmen,” said Commanding Officer Capt. Paul “Veg” Bandini.

Among those in attendance was Lt. Gen. James Glynn, Commanding General of Marine Forces Pacific, who emphasized the importance of strong, adaptable and resilient leadership. He spoke about how the deep knowledge of the Indo-Pacific gained through a 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 education equips officers to meet the challenges facing the United States in the 21st century.

Marine graduates set the standard

Palacios, Tirao and Yamaguchi, who received their bachelor鈥檚 degrees at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 spring commencement, have set the standard for the more than 30 Marine unit students at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.

It’s incredible to be part of this historic group of Marines and I’m excited to represent Hawaiʻi
—2nd Lt. Abraham Palacios

“We used to get lost around campus together just a few years ago,” said Tirao. “But now we have the honor of joining our Navy peers as the first Marine graduates from this university鈥攅ver.”

Palacios added, “It’s incredible to be part of this historic group of Marines and I’m excited to represent Hawaiʻi as one of the first officers to commission through 东精影业 Manoa!”

Students in the NROTC program manage the responsibilities of both midshipmen and college students, maintaining high academic standards, physical fitness, leadership development and community involvement.

Fastest-growing NROTC unit in the nation

The Marine unit was established in 2022 by Marine Officer Instructor Capt. Grace Chow with just eight students. Since then, the program has more than tripled in size. It now includes 11 Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program (MECEP) active-duty Marines and 20 midshipmen.

“What has made this unit a success is the Marine Corps family on the island,” said Chow. “There is no camaraderie like the Marine Corps, and that is why I love what I do. I鈥檓 excited to see these new officers join the fleet and hope to serve alongside them in the future.”

Now the fastest-growing NROTC unit in the nation, 东精影业 NROTC relies heavily on the support of local organizations such as the Honolulu Navy League, Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi, Marine Forces Pacific, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, and individual sponsors who dedicate time and resources to mentoring the next generation of naval officers.

Five months after the (NROTC) at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 commissioned their first sailor, they celebrated another milestone on May 13, as three naval officers earned a commission from its program.

Donning their caps and gowns and proudly displaying their diplomas, Zachary Barto, Chase Roche and Jacob Simmons achieved the rank of ensign in the U.S. Navy during a ceremony held aboard the Battleship Missouri. Their commissioning ceremony served as a culmination of rigorous training and preparation as well as a testament to their commitment to serve their country.

“Another spectacular moment for the 东精影业 NROTC as we commission our three newest ensigns in the United States Navy. We are excited for your journey that awaits!” said Commanding Officer Paul “Veg” Bandini.

On May 11, prior to their commissioning, Barto, Roche and Simmons graduated with their respective bachelor’s degrees. Their achievements are not only sources of pride for themselves, but also for their families and the Koa O Ke Kai Battalion.

Reflecting on their journey, each newly commissioned officer expressed honor at being among the first to graduate from the university’s pioneering NROTC program. Barto will serve as a naval submarine officer upon completing nuclear power school in Charleston, South Carolina. Roche will serve as a naval pilot and Simmons will serve as a naval flight officer after both completing their naval aviation training in Florida.

The commissioning of Barto, Roche and Simmons underscores the success and commitment of the NROTC program at the UH 惭腻苍辞补 in preparing future leaders for service in the U.S. Navy.

“Their exemplary dedication and leadership serve as inspirations to their peers and reflect the program’s unwavering dedication to excellence in training and education,” added Bandini.

Two years after the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 began training the inaugural students of the state鈥檚 only (NROTC), it celebrated a significant milestone—the commissioning of its first naval officer.

Midshipman Mahinalani Vongsy achieved the rank of ensign with the U.S. Navy in a ceremony that was held on December 15, aboard the Battleship Missouri. The next day, Vongsy marked another accomplishment and graduated with her BA in at the at the Stan Sheriff Center. The culmination of these events are proud moments for her and her parents, both of whom served in the U.S. military.

“I feel very honored to be the first commissioned Naval Officer from this historic program,” said Vongsy. “I pushed myself to a high standard and I really hope I set the bar high. I am a second generation Asian American, the daughter of two U.S. military veterans, and a super senior earning a summa cum laude in my major. If that doesn鈥檛 speak to you as the perfect person to be the first commissioned from 东精影业 NROTC, I鈥檓 not sure of a better person to do so.”

Embracing legacy of her parents

Vongsy is following in the footsteps of her parents, who were inspirational figures throughout her upbringing. Her mother, Katrina, a retired Navy lieutenant commander with 26 years of service, earned a BA in biology at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in fall 2003, exactly 20 years earlier than her daughter. Her father, Samson, a retired Army Sergeant First Class, served actively for 21 years.

Before earning her 东精影业 degree, Vongsy鈥檚 mother joined the Navy as a hospital corpsman. While Vongsy and her brother were still young children, their mother not only earned her commission but also secured admission to medical school. Vongsy鈥檚 father immigrated from Laos to Hawaiʻi in the 1970s to escape persecution from the Vietnam War, eventually settling in P膩lolo Valley. He attended Kaimuk墨 High School then enlisted in the Army after a few years of college.

“Seeing my mother persevere through the challenges of being in the military, raising my brother and I, and becoming a doctor all at the same time has inspired me to follow in her footsteps and also do great things,” she said. “My dad taught me everything I needed to know to get me to become a commissioned officer鈥攖he skills to be a good leader. He was basically my own personal drill instructor, preparing me for life.”

She added, “My parents gave me an amazing start on life, being able to go to college and get my degree and now I鈥檓 following in their footsteps in service. I only hope to be able to make them proud of continuing their legacy as another Vongsy serving in the U.S. Military.”

Highlight of college

Vongsy considers her participation in the NROTC program the highlight of her college experience. The friendships forged, the invaluable mentorships from esteemed staff, and the opportunities NROTC provided have left a lasting and meaningful imprint on her life.

This really is the premier NROTC unit in the country and I have been blessed.
— Vongsy

Through the program, Vongsy was able to travel to Japan and Singapore, sail through the South China Sea and the Philippines, connect with students from diverse corners of the globe, and engage with four-star admirals.

“This really is the premier NROTC unit in the country and I have been blessed,” Vongsy said. “Being in Hawaiʻi has afforded us so many opportunities apart from other NROTC programs. I鈥檝e made amazing friends that I will soon see joining me in the fleet. They鈥檝e [faculty and instructors] given me expertise on all things Navy, and I feel confident to say I will be a great addition to the team because of them.”

Using degree to empower service members

Vongsy pursued psychology as a major following a challenging period in her life marked by anxiety and depression.

“Through this struggle I was able to understand how mental anguish can affect people and I wanted to use my experience of getting through it to help others who are struggling with the same problems,” she said. “I want to help service members who struggle with mental illness and show them they are not alone.”

Vongsy aspires to leverage her time in the Navy to contribute to her research and understanding of mental health, aiming to reshape the stigma and culture surrounding these challenging conditions within the military.

Following graduation, Vongsy will undergo a basic division officer course in San Diego for several months before embarking on her first assignment aboard the USS Shiloh in Pearl Harbor.

“I am looking forward to exploring the world with my shipmates,” she said.

—by Arlene Abiang

In a showcase of athletic talents which fostered camaraderie and friendships between two nations, midshipmen from the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 (NROTC) and their counterparts from the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy participated in a friendly soccer match September 10 on the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 campus.

Final score: The visiting ROK Navy team won the match against 东精影业 NROTC, 5-0.

“We were thrilled to welcome the Republic of Korea Navy Midshipmen to our campus for this exciting soccer match,” said Capt. Grace Jenkins, 东精影业 marine officer instructor. “This event not only promoted teamwork and sportsmanship but also strengthened the ties between our nations, reflecting our shared values and commitment to maritime security.”

Twenty-four midshipmen from the ROK Navy traveled to Hawaiʻi as part of their annual training cruise for graduating seniors of their naval academy aboard the Hansando training vessel and the Hwacheon logistic ship. They are traveling 30,000 nautical miles over 141 days and visiting 13 countries, and will travel next to the Panama Canal.

Even with the loss, the event was a testament to the shared commitment to the mission of the 东精影业 Naval Service Training Command, which is dedicated to transforming volunteers into naval service professionals by instilling and reinforcing enduring core values, knowledge and skills to prepare them for the fleet.

More than 80 young wahine, grades 5–8, were part of this year鈥檚 (YIP) for girls, a free two-week STEM and leadership development program, held at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 and off-site locations in July.

Now in its 2nd year, YIP is hosted by in partnership with the U.S. Army Pacific and many community volunteers throughout the state.

Related: Transformative development program for girls launched at 东精影业, August 2022

YIP empowers youth, fosters personal growth and cultivates a sense of responsibility. The program is available at a number of universities across the nation with a mission to provide inclusion, equity and opportunity to at-risk middle school youth.

New experiences

Students participated in a STEM-based curriculum, provided with guidance from Hawaiʻi State Department of Education teachers, including guest speakers covering topics that inspired, educated and brought awareness. They heard from mentors with the U.S. Army Pacific and 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 , who led sessions on leadership development and life skills. In addition, working with the Rainbow Wahine student athletes, students took part in activities that focused on team building, work ethics and more.

“We hope we鈥檝e inspired these young wahine to dream big and strive for greatness academically, athletically and in everything they do. We believe when someone is challenged, they grow, and this program provides a safe environment that supports participants in stepping out of their comfort zone,” said Jason Hill, director of operations for 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Wahine Basketball and lead coordinator for this year鈥檚 YIP. “Last year laid the foundation for what this program can become, and this year built upon that foundation. We are grateful to take part in the first Youth Impact Program for Girls in the nation.”

Along with basketball and military education, lessons in yoga, hip-hop dance, Hawaiian culture and more were offered.

“The program is awesome because I got to play basketball with college players and met lots of new friends that don鈥檛 go to my school,” said Maggie Clason, a fifth grader from Mililani.

Turning dreams into reality

The closing ceremony held July 15, at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, was attended by parents and family of the students, Rainbow Wahine basketball players and staff, military, donors, teachers, special guests and more. Maj. Gen. Brian Gibson and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi gave remarks, and the girls received personalized dream cards to encourage them to turn their dreams into reality.

“This emotional event was the culmination of 10 days of trust, leadership, effective guidance and life-changing engagement,” stated founder and Super Bowl champion (49ers: 1984, 1988, 1989) Riki Elison in a letter to supporters. “We were unified behind each and every young girl that participated in the 2023 Hawaiʻi Girls YIP program.”

Following the same principles, the Hawaiʻi Youth Impact Program for was held June 12—23, and hosted by 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Football in partnership with the U.S. Army Pacific Command.

Students of the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 (NROTC) participated in their first annual field exercise, March 23–26. The spring field exercise (FEX) is the culminating event of the year for Marine option midshipmen with the purpose of practical application of skills they have learned throughout the year, including training designed to improve their leadership, teamwork and combat readiness.

Training events took place around Oʻahu, including Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Marine Corps Training Area Bellows and Schofield Training Areas. Throughout the exercise, students worked together to complete each event, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in combat situations.

The exercise began with indoor marksmanship simulator training using both the M4A1 service rifle and SIG Sauer M18 pistol. Students were taught disassembly and assembly of weapons and honed their shooting skills in a safe and controlled environment, preparing them for the more intense training ahead.

Combat conditioning training followed, putting students through a series of rigorous exercises designed to build strength, stamina and resilience. From there, participants moved on to day and night land navigation, relying on map and compass skills to find their way through challenging terrain.

Perhaps the most challenging event of the exercise was the nine-mile conditioning march with a modified assault load. Students were required to carry full packs and rifles while navigating through steep terrain, pushing their physical and mental limits to the brink.

“The biggest takeaway from our Marine Option Spring FEX was that you know much more than you think and can perform much more than you鈥檙e capable of,” said Anthony Tirao, NROTC midshipman. “To succeed in the various events, I had to rely, most importantly, on teamwork both through communication and trust between myself and others. I, alongside other Marine Options, used these components to ensure that the instructions were clear and, most importantly, that we had each other鈥檚 back.”

“It was a privilege to see the Marine option students rise to the challenge and perform at an exemplary level. Their teamwork, leadership and determination were truly impressive and a testament to the values of the Marine Corps. I am confident that these students will go on to become exceptional leaders in the U.S. Marine Corps. It was an honor to work alongside them and witness their growth and development throughout this exercise,” said Capt. Grace Jenkins, Marine officer instructor.

Support from Hawaiʻi Marine infantries

The training showcased the importance of Hawaiʻi‘s strategic location for military training and highlighted the commitment of NROTC to ensure its students are prepared to serve as effective leaders in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“We could not have made this field exercise a success without the unparalleled support provided by fellow marines and sailors. The commitment and dedication of everyone involved were truly remarkable and inspiring to witness,” said Jenkins.

The NROTC spring field exercise was supported by Marine Forces Pacific Command, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment and 1st Battalion 12th Marines Artillery Battalion.

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 (NROTC) is entering its second year with a new cohort and is adding a Marine Corps unit to the program. In addition to its Navy unit, the program will now screen and accept Marine officer candidates.

Recently joining the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 program to head the new detachment is Capt. Grace Jenkins, U.S. Marine Corps.

“Standing up the 东精影业 Marine NROTC unit with a team eager to assist and an island full of service members has been none less than a team effort,” said Jenkins, who will serve as Marine Corps Instructor. “The unit is in its infancy stage, but has had resounding help from Marine Corps Pacific Fleet, Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi and Commander Pacific Fleet.”

New Student Orientation

About 40 midshipmen participated in the recent New Student Orientation held August 12–16, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor, Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay and on the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 campus.

NROTC鈥檚 newest members were introduced to the program and took part in a series of activities鈥攑hysical fitness tests and a swim qualification, weapons handling, pistol familiarization range, close-order drill, an intro to the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program, an overnight stay aboard USS Missouri—and attended the Kaneohe Bay Air Show, where they interacted with Navy and Marine Corps officers and watched the Navy Blue Angels performance.

The students ended their orientation by moving into their residence halls to kick off their first semester as college students.

Midshipmen Bailey Gapusan said he enjoyed his experience during orientation and for what lies ahead. “My favorite part was the Marine Corps martial art, especially ground fighting. I鈥檓 looking forward to being part of the first Marine Corps unit,” he said.

Midshipman Jason Stevenson-Chupany, who is joining the Navy unit, said, “I liked meeting the Marine drill instructors to learn the fundamentals, as well as our time aboard the USS Missouri. I am most excited for the leadership opportunities.”

Aside from the addition of the Marine Corps unit, 东精影业 惭补苍辞补鈥檚 NROTC just completed a two-month pilot summer internship program with the U.S. Pacific Fleet which provided midshipmen the opportunity to join the COMPACFLT headquarters command as full staff members and exposed them to different roles and responsibilities of Navy occupational specialties.

东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 NROTC program was established in August 2020.

The (COMPACFLT) completed its first summer paid internship program with midshipmen from the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 newly established (NROTC).

The two-month pilot program provided eleven midshipmen the opportunity to join the Pacific Fleet headquarters command as full staff members for the summer and gain broad experience in the naval services鈥� role in the Indo-Pacific.

The training included embarking on various naval platforms, including overnight embarks aboard USS Abraham Lincoln and amphibious assault ship USS Essex, and participating in a familiarization program with the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. The opportunity gave the midshipmen real-world experience with navies from 26 nations.

• Read more NROTC stories on 东精影业 News.

Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander, COMPACFLT, explained the importance of creating the internship program.

“As U.S. Pacific Fleet, the Navy鈥檚 largest and most expansive fleet is located on Oʻahu, we welcomed the opportunity to work alongside the University of Hawaiʻi NROTC to create the paid internship for the midshipmen,” said Paparo. “These midshipmen are receiving a world-class education and a vast experience working with the Navy鈥檚 oldest Fleet headquarters.”

Along with earning qualifications, completing ship simulators, and hands-on training aboard ships, like the guided-missile destroyer USS Daniel Inouye, students also completed group capstone projects on increasing amphibious lethality and contested logistics as they prepare for the upcoming semester.

“My favorite event was being able to use an MV-22 simulator, but my most memorable experience was talking to the chiefs on the Essex,” said Kealoha Yamaguchi, a midshipman with the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 NROTC unit. “Learning about the chiefs鈥� experiences and knowledge, and what they want us, as future officers, to know going into the fleet. This opportunity has shown me that every aspect of the Navy and Marine Corps contributes to the overall success of the mission.”

The internship program was open to students in the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 NROTC unit who had completed 40 credit hours with a good academic standing.

东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 NROTC program was established in August 2020 with the mission to develop midshipmen mentally, morally, and physically and to instill the Navy鈥檚 core values of honor, courage, and commitment to commission college graduates as naval officers.

The nation鈥檚 and Hawaiʻi鈥檚 first (YIP) for girls was launched at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 in July, with Rainbow Wahine Head Basketball Coach Laura Beeman taking the reins. About 100 girls ages 10 to 14 from disadvantaged backgrounds throughout the state participated in the innovative nine-day camp focused on STEM-based academics, leadership skills and athletics.

This groundbreaking event marked a significant achievement for YIP and 东精影业 on the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the gender equity law that dramatically increased participation of girls and women in sports.

YIP was founded by Super Bowl champion and Polynesian Hall of Famer Riki Ellison with a mission to provide inclusion, equity and opportunity to at-risk middle school youth nationwide. Since 2006, 44 programs at 15 prominent universities have been conducted. Transformative youth development camps have been held for boys for 18 years, and the Rainbow Warrior football team has hosted 400 youth in the Hawaiʻi YIP for boys in the last five years.

Academics, leadership and basketball

“It鈥檚 a busy time of year, but finally I said, ‘I want to do this, my staff wants to do this,’” said Beeman. “My players are amazing role models. We want to do this and started talking as a team, what YIP is and why are we doing it for the boys and not the girls?”

Beeman along with her Rainbow Wahine and Big West Champion student athletes and staff inspired the student participants throughout the camp, offering basketball tips and helping them with math, reading and life skills.

The STEM-based curriculum also included the guidance of Hawaiʻi Department of Education teachers and nine special guest speakers who covered topics on positive social interaction, improv and mental health to encourage, educate and inform the young women.

The life skills, character and leadership development sessions were provided by mentors from U.S. Army Pacific represented by 8th Theater Sustainment Command, 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command; Marine Corps Hawaii represented by Combat Logistics Battalion 3; and the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Army ROTC Warrior Battalion.

Female role models

The program also included a “Pearl Harbor Experience” field trip for the students to learn about military historic sites and centers, as well as explore a number of STEM career opportunities in aerospace, maritime and high-tech.

Students heard from female role models, including Army Major General (Ret) Suzy Vares-Lum, the first female General Officer commissioned from 东精影业 惭补苍辞补鈥檚 Army ROTC program, and now president of East-West Center, and Lt. Col. BJ Itoman, former ALL-Western Athletic Conference Rainbow Wahine point guard and currently a C-18 Globemaster pilot in the Hawaii National Guard.

“The opportunity is what this camp is about. It’s about exposure, it’s about laying a foundation, it’s about saying to each one of these young ladies, we鈥檙e giving you the opportunity to go back to your school and be a leader in your classroom,” said Beeman.

Parents of youth participants surveyed agreed that the program had positive impacts on their daughters, while the youth participants agreed the program increased their knowledge, understanding and ability to be a better person.

A participant stated, “When people say I can鈥檛 do something, I will show them a girl can do anything! I will respect everyone!”

The fiery December 7, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor got “real” for the first cadre of Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补. As part of their U.S. Naval History course, the 25 midshipmen donned virtual reality (VR) headsets and were immersed in a 360-degree digital experience of the events of the attack through two newly released VRs from .

The narrated VRs, titled “Air Raid Pearl Harbor” and “Skies Over Pearl,” placed them on the deck of the USS Utah, one of the battleships destroyed on that Sunday morning, and also put them in the cockpit of a Japanese fighter plane as it departed the carrier Akagi 230 miles north of Oʻahu and headed toward the military airfields and Pearl Harbor.

“It was important for them to see this virtual reality simulation because as Hawaiʻi鈥檚 first Naval ROTC Command, [the students] need to see what is in their region鈥檚 background and their history,” said Lt. Sawyer Smith, NROTC aviation officer and instructor of the course. “It teaches them how to understand the severity of the Pearl Harbor attack, and teaches them a history lesson through different aspects of what made that battle so significant.”

The experience told the story of the 1941 attack in a new way, and helped the group of future military leaders, who were not born when 9/11 happened, to better understand and prepare in the event of an attack similar to Dec. 7 or 9/11.

Dylan Yamaguchi, a 4th class NROTC midshipman, who plans to join the U.S. Marine Corps after graduating said it was an innovative experience. “I thought it was pretty interesting because it was a new way of learning our history. In the history books, we could read it and imagine it in our minds, but the VR headsets actually showed us what it really was like,” he said.

“Air Raid Pearl Harbor” and “Skies Over Pearl” run about 6 minutes each and are currently shown at the at the USS Arizona Memorial. Pacific Historic Parks aims to expand outreach to students from high school and college to promote their mission of remembering, honoring and understanding World War II in the Pacific.

More on 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 1st NROTC midshipmen

• There are 25 midshipmen in the inaugural 2021–22 cohort (15 Hawaiʻi residents and 10 out-of-state residents), with a mix of male (18) and female (7) students.
• The 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 NROTC program educates, trains and develops young men and women for leadership positions in the Navy and Marine Corps.
• The program is actively recruiting students both locally and across the mainland for the 2022–23 academic year.
• Established in 2020, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 is the first university to host a new NROTC program in the country since 2016.

Learn more on the and .

This is an example of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of , one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.

—By Arlene Abiang

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa welcomed its first cadre of Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen on August 17, in a ceremony attended by top Hawaiʻi military leaders and the U.S. congressional delegation.

东精影业 President David Lassner and 东精影业 Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno hosted the event that highlighted the partnership between the campus and military counterparts. At the brief ceremony U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, U.S. Rep. Ed Case and Adm. Sam Paparo, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, acknowledged the long road to establish the program at the campus and honored the first group of students to enroll in the program.

Paparo also administered the Midshipman Oath of Office to the 19 students present for the ceremony. There are 23 students enrolled in the program. The program is expected to attract more students in upcoming years.

About half of the students are from Hawaiʻi, and the student who traveled the farthest was from Kentucky. The program covers the Navy and Marines. Top leaders from the two military branches were present for the ceremony including Rear Adm. Tim Kott, Navy Region Hawaiʻi and Lt. Gen. Steven Rudder, Marine Corps Base Hawaiʻi.

东精影业 Mānoa is the first university to host a new NROTC program in the country since 2016. 东精影业 Mānoa has been host to the Air Force and Army ROTC programs under the Office of Student Academic Success.

This work is an example of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of (PDF), one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.

A 47-year career of a champion for education at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 has come to an end. A fixture in the campus, who was well respected and critical to a variety of successful programs, Ronald Cambra retired from the university in January 2021.

The Hawaiʻi Island native served in multiple positions for the university, most recently as assistant vice chancellor for since 2005. In that role, he oversaw operations and resources for undergraduate programs, including campus-wide academic advising, first- and second-year programs, honors program, ROTC, interdisciplinary studies, civic engagement, student success center, student learning center and other academic support services.

“The University owes Ron an enormous debt of gratitude, and we miss him already,” 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno said. “Ron taught us all what it means to be truly dedicated to the university and to truly care about the success of our students, from the moment they are recruited through to graduation and success in their careers.”

Under Cambra鈥檚 leadership

Cambra helped realize a number of highly successful initiatives, including the STAR degree tracking program, 15 to Finish, mandatory academic advising and a consolidation of program sheets to help with the understanding of degree requirements. These initiatives resulted in 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 increasing its four-year graduation rate from 16% to 32%, and national recognition for the campus鈥檚 degree completion projects.

• Related 东精影业 News story: Complete College America honors 东精影业鈥檚 STAR and 15 to Finish programs, November 11, 2016

Cambra had three goals, “Number one, to find ways to actively engage students when they get here to 惭腻苍辞补. Number two was to find ways to form partnerships with students, and number three was to develop a sense of stewardship—that undergraduate students understand that this is their campus, that this is their basic footprint. And I think we鈥檝e held true to those three things and that has tied the work together.”

Cambra added, “A lot of those initiatives were having the right people who are so dedicated and hard working that it was easy working with people who see the same kinds of things that you want to do. Strong leadership in STAR, , , Honors, , ROTC, , , , and Student Success Services all are led by very dedicated student-focused leaders. Our catalog鈥檚 work on the four-year academic plans and a new scheduler, have made it easier to transform the undergraduate academic experience for our students. It has been my privilege to have worked with these strong, dedicated leaders.”

Instrumental recruiter

Cambra was also an invaluable recruiter and ambassador for the university, attending accepted student receptions hosted by the .

“For 15+ years, he traveled with us across the state and on the continental U.S. sharing the ‘惭腻苍辞补 Experience’—his signature Dr. Cambra presentation, sharing all the wonderful reasons why 惭腻苍辞补 was one of the best universities in the world,” said Abigail Huliganga Hurgo, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 associate director of admissions. “His presence at our events was always a big hit with our prospective and accepted students and wouldn’t be surprised if he was one of the reasons why students chose 惭腻苍辞补.”

Building an award-winning career in education

Cambra was born and raised on Hawaiʻi Island, and transferred from 东精影业 Hilo to 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in 1968. As a 东精影业 Hilo Vulcan, he was student government president and led a campaign to establish the third and fourth years at 东精影业 Hilo, which started in 1969.

He earned a BEd in secondary education and a MA in speech from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, and a PhD from the University of Washington. Cambra became a member of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 faculty in 1974 and was promoted to professor of speech in 1987. He was the chair of the Department of Speech from 1983 to 1992. In 1992, he became the Colleges of Arts and Sciences associate dean of academic affairs and student academic services, before becoming an assistant vice chancellor in 2005.

Among the numerous awards, Cambra was named 东精影业鈥檚 manager of the year in 2019 and went on to win the state manager of the year award the same year. In 2017, he won the Michael C. Holen Pacesetter Award for excellence in the field of advising from the National Academic Advising Association and was the co-author of a presentation that won the 2017 Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities degree completion award, a national honor for institutions with outstanding four-year degree completion achievements.

Cambra鈥檚 work is a prime example of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of (PDF), one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.

—By Marc Arakaki

A virtual remembrance event marking the 79th anniversary of the December 7 attack on Pearl Harbor was held at the facilities. The event included the National Anthem performed by local ukulele artist Jake Shimabukuro, a keynote address by Medal of Honor Recipient Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura, and recorded messages of peace and appreciation from around the world.

“We come today in gratitude to reflect and reaffirm our trust and belief in each other and the power of friendship,” said Bishop Yoshiaki Fujitani in the event鈥檚 invocation.

Hundreds tuned in to the livestream that included messages from the Major General Kenneth S. Hara, the adjutant general for the State of Hawaiʻi, and Hawaiʻi Congressman Kai Kahele. 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Cadet Skylar Olsen performed Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī live from the 东精影业 ROTC facilities in front of the Hawaiian warrior statue that stands for all of the Fallen Warriors from the storied 东精影业 ROTC program founded in 1914.

Next to the statue was a table with a picture of 10 东精影业 ROTC members who died in World War II. Seven of them were members of the Varsity Victory Volunteers, a group of Japanese Americans in the 东精影业 ROTC program when the war started. They were initially classified as enemy aliens after the attack on Pearl Harbor and were only allowed to do menial tasks in the first year of the war. The Varsity Victory Volunteers went on to form the core of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team, an all Japanese American unit, while others served in military intelligence.

“The attack on Pearl Harbor changed the fates of nations and the families that make them what they are,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Gregory, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 professor of military science. “These fallen warriors show the true strength of the United States, a nation composed of all nationalities working towards a common goal. We shall forever remember our Varsity Victory Volunteers for their inspiring journey, their struggles and their triumphs.”

Stacey Hayashi, a 1997 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 graduate, will never forget their sacrifice. Hayashi organized and was the emcee of the virtual remembrance event, along with Shimabukuro. She is the filmmaker who made Go For Broke, the origin story of Varsity Victory Volunteers and the 442nd regiment.

“We can never forget the incredibly selfless service of all of the veterans who served during World War II,” said Hayashi. “They fought for the rights and opportunities that all of us still benefit from till this day.”

The has signed a memorandum of agreement with the to officially establish a new (NROTC) unit at the university, which will begin training students in fall 2021. The partnership marks the first NROTC for college students in the state of 贬补飞补颈驶颈.

• Related 东精影业 News story: Navy to launch ROTC program at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, September 5, 2019

鈥淭his has been long-anticipated and we couldn鈥檛 be prouder to join other universities across the country to host our own Naval ROTC unit,鈥� said 东精影业 President David Lassner. 鈥淭he new NROTC unit will provide even more scholarship opportunities for 贬补飞补颈驶颈鈥檚 young adults interested in serving our country through the Navy. Our sincere mahalo goes out to U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz and our entire congressional delegation for their relentless advocacy to make this program a reality.鈥�

鈥淭hank you to the U.S. Navy and to our congressional delegation for their continued support and commitment to establishing a Naval ROTC program at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补,鈥� said 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno. 鈥淲e welcome Commanding Officer and Professor of Naval Science Donald Nisbett to the 东精影业 驶辞丑补苍补. We are fortunate to have someone who brings a wealth of knowledge and an impressive background with the U.S. Navy and NROTC operations to lead the new unit.鈥�

鈥淚 would like to thank the University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 for their enduring commitment and professional expertise that has helped the Navy to help us solve some technical challenges. The education and training of Naval officers further strengthens those bonds,鈥� said Adm. John C. Aquilino, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. 鈥淚 am confident both the University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 and the Navy will benefit from this steadfast relationship.鈥�

Midshipmen complete undergraduate degrees, while simultaneously receiving military training. Many receive traditional four-year scholarships from the Navy, although two and three-year scholarships, and non-scholarship programs are available. Upon successful completion of the program, midshipmen are commissioned as Navy ensigns or Marine Corps second lieutenants.

鈥淭his new ROTC program will give more 贬补飞补颈驶颈i students a chance at earning scholarships and gaining an education, while helping the Navy strengthen its diversity to make sure its officers and Marines better reflect the American public and our values in 贬补飞补颈驶颈,鈥� Schatz said. 鈥淚 thank my colleagues on the Senate Appropriations Committee for coming together to secure the funding that made this historic program possible.鈥�

• Related 东精影业 News story: $1.1M secured for 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 first-ever Naval ROTC program, December 31, 2019

鈥淲hile the coronavirus prevents us from being together in person, I join our community in celebrating the signing of the MOU and the hiring of a commanding officer for the Naval ROTC program at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, officially opening the program that will provide quality educational opportunities for students also looking to serve their country,鈥� Hirono said. 鈥淚 thank the Navy for its engagement during the years-long process to establish this program, and I look forward to our continual strengthening of the Navy鈥檚 commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and 贬补飞补颈驶颈.鈥�

Captain Nisbett, a naval aviator, will serve as the unit鈥檚 first commanding officer. He previously commanded the Oregon State University NROTC unit and served as the deputy commander for NROTC Operations at Naval Service Training Command (NSTC).

鈥淚 am extraordinarily proud to be the first commanding officer and plank owner of the new NROTC unit in 贬补飞补颈驶颈,鈥� said Nisbett. 鈥淭his state has long historical ties to the Navy and is a central hub of naval activity today. I look forward to working with 东精影业 and the other ROTC programs in developing our future Navy and Marine Corps leaders.鈥�

The NROTC program develops young men and women morally, mentally and physically and instills in them the highest ideals of honor, courage and commitment. The program educates and trains young men and women for leadership positions in an increasingly technical Navy and Marine Corps.

NSTC, headquartered in Great Lakes, Ill., oversees the NROTC program at more than 160 colleges and universities, including staffing, facilities, and other requirements.

Applications for four-year scholarships beginning in fall 2021 are now open. .

The sky鈥檚 the limit for a new University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 graduate, literally.

Angie McCallister graduated in spring 2020 with a , was a leader in , earned the title “Distinguished Military Graduate” by the U.S. Army and mentors high school JROTC programs across Oʻahu. And, starting in fall 2020, McCallister is headed to the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence in Fort Rucker, Ala. to become a pilot.

But, it isn鈥檛 the flying she is most nervous about. It鈥檚 the so-called “dunker training” that McCallister wants to complete and get over with. This involves trainees being strapped in a test aircraft, which gets submerged in water, and tests water survival skills.

“I am looking forward to passing dunker school training, because I want to conquer my fear, which has always been swimming,” McCallister said. “I just recently learned how to swim, so being able to get there and accomplish that would be such a blessing.”

Journey to 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补

McCallister, a native of Fresno, Calif., always wanted to join the U.S. Army. However, after graduating from high school in 2008, her mother became ill. As much as she wanted to serve, she knew that she needed to remain home and take care of her mother. McCallister attended Fresno City Community College and fortunately, after her mother got better, she enlisted into the U.S. Army.

Then in 2017, McCallister applied to the , which allows enlisted soldiers to pursue a baccalaureate or graduate degree and earn a commission as an officer. McCallister heard great things about the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 ROTC program, so she packed her bags and headed for Oʻahu in fall 2018.

“东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 has been a great experience for me and my family,” McCallister said. “I attended college back in 2008 and so to pick up from where I started was a little rough. I really wasn鈥檛 sure what to expect and I was just so scared and nervous, but all my professors and the ROTC program cadre were so welcoming that transition was a fulfilling one.”

“She will go far”

“She is humble, dedicated, fit, compassionate, and strives to make herself better every day,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Gregory, professor of military science. “She poured herself into this program and into the development of her peers and the underclassmen. Even after class ended you would still find her in the ROTC building, planning training for the upcoming weeks or working with her classmates on future projects.”

Professor James Bayman is the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 anthropology undergraduate chair in the and taught two of McCallister鈥檚 courses.

“Angie McCallister is an exceptionally hard working and respectful student and individual,” Bayman said. “She energizes any classroom with her focused and thoughtful enthusiasm for the subject at hand. She will go far in life and those of us who are fortunate to know her are enriched by her positive, upbeat attitude.”

As focused as she is to achieve her academic and career goals, McCallister remains grounded and keeps family first.

“My motivation always comes from my mother and my husband. Everything I do is for them and that鈥檚 what keeps me going everyday,” McCallister said.

—By Marc Arakaki

Hawaiʻi U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz has secured $1.1 million for a first-ever Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program at the . The funding was included in the bipartisan spending deal signed into law by the president this month.

“This new ROTC program at 东精影业 will give more Hawaiʻi students a chance at earning scholarships and gaining an education, while helping the Navy strengthen its diversity to make sure its officers better reflect the American public and our values in Hawaiʻi,” said Senator Schatz.

Senior Navy leaders in Hawaiʻi have long spoken to the university about the potential to foster a significant number of high-quality cadets with critical language and technical skills among an ethnically and racially diverse student body, according to a December 30 news release from the senator驶s office.

Schatz met with the former Navy Secretary and urged him to use additional congressional funding for the establishment of a Naval ROTC unit at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Schatz worked with committee colleagues to secure the new funding for the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 program.

The new Naval ROTC program will train students to become commissioned officers and enable more Hawaiʻi students to attend college and serve their country.

—Based on a U.S. Senate press release

When University of Hawaiʻi football player Keliʻi “KK” Padello saw an U.S. Army officer in uniform among the fans watching a morning practice at lower campus one August morning, it caught the student-athlete鈥檚 attention more than his teammates. After all, Padello is also a specialist in the Army National Guard and a cadet in the . He immediately noticed the three stars on the officer鈥檚 fatigues. He was a lieutenant general.

So when Lt. Gen. Bryan Fenton stepped forward after practice and looked directly at Padello, Padello鈥檚 heart started beating faster. Then Fenton made an exciting announcement as his teammates and 东精影业 Head Football Coach Nick Rolovich looked on: Padello, who had walked on the team his junior year, received a coveted football scholarship for his senior year.

“Being granted a full football scholarship to me was my number one goal,” said Padello. “As a freshman in high school that鈥檚 all I ever wanted and finally accomplishing that goal was one of those heart-stopping moments. It symbolized all the hard work, all the early mornings, the adversity and the bruises. It was all worth that single moment. Being in the ROTC program and given the opportunity means everything, I was very fortunate to have great cadre who鈥檝e seen the drive and mentality to be a leader in both the football uniform and military uniform.”

A motivated leader

Padello is motivated both as a on the football field and as a leader in 东精影业 Army ROTC. He is currently in his final year of 东精影业‘s ROTC program, serving as a cadet lieutenant who coaches, mentors and trains junior cadets during morning physical training labs.

“The training is a grueling experience that teaches resilience and leadership,” said Lt. Col. Dan Gregory, 东精影业 Army ROTC commander and a professor in the . “Keliʻi has proven to be a passionate leader who strives to make the organization better. Student, athlete, leader—he鈥檚 a great young man.”

Padello recently completed his 37-day Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox in Kentucky, where he put his football playing grit to the Army test. The training serves as the culminating experience for all cadets across the 274 Army ROTC programs across the nation. Each cadet qualifies by operating an M4 carbine, learning life-saving first-aid techniques, completing a grueling 12-mile march on foot while carrying 35 pounds of gear in a backpack, and conquering other challenging activities.

Most importantly, cadets like Padello must serve as leaders for their peers while conducting simulated combat training over rugged terrain, said Gregory. The training is designed to test the physical and mental abilities of cadets, so they all learn how to lead while under duress.

“KK is one of our team鈥檚 inspirational leaders because of his commitment to service outside of our program,” said Brian Smith, the team鈥檚 offensive coordinator and running backs coach. “ROTC has taught him discipline and to become a more focused individual. He exhibits outstanding leadership qualities both on and off the field.”

Padello takes the praise in stride.

“Being a leader on and off the field is a mindset,” said Padello. “You cannot choose to one day be a leader then the next day take a break. Leadership is a constant ongoing job that you need to work very hard for and be resilient through anything. A quote that I go by is from The Sandlot, ‘There are heroes and there are legends, heroes get remembered but legends never die. Follow your heart and you鈥檒l never go wrong.’ I apply this to any situation whether in ROTC, football, or anything in life.”

Go to the for more on the program.

Wisconsin native and Megan Zamzow originally came to Hawaiʻi with visions of training dolphins and sprinting around the Rainbow track.

What happened next was totally unexpected. She stumbled on a new sport and new career path, all the while making history at 东精影业 Mānoa.

Follow her as she takes you on her journey at Mānoa.

In her own words, she tells at the 东精影业 Mānoa Athletics Department website.