CIS 40th Anniversary graphic

CIS 40th Anniversary: Celebrating 40 Years of People, Ideas, and Impact

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Communication and Information Sciences (CIS) Ph.D. Program!

On November 2, 2026, the CIS community came together in person and virtually to celebrate 40 years of the program. Current students, faculty, and alumni took a look back at CIS through the years with a presentation by CIS Chair Rich Gazan, featuring historical program documents and reflections on how CIS research has evolved.

CIS students, faculty, and alumni gather in person and via Zoom for the program’s 40th anniversary celebration.

CIS Chair Rich Gazan presents during the program’s 40th anniversary celebration, with the anniversary slide projected beside him.

Attendees also shared stories and memories from their time in the program and enjoyed browsing the Digital Memory Book, created to commemorate the anniversary. We invite members of the CIS community to continue contributing to the memory book by sharing stories, photos, and favorite memories. To submit yours, email cischair@hawaii.edu.

Finally, in keeping with the CIS 720 First Monday tradition, the celebration continued with beers at Mānoa Gardens!

CIS community members gather for drinks and conversation outdoors at Mānoa Gardens following the 40th anniversary celebration. Photo credit: Mandi Hull

We extend a heartfelt mahalo to everyone who attended and helped celebrate this occasion. We are grateful to everyone who has been part of CIS over the past 40 years and look forward to all that lies ahead.