If you are visiting a Disney park and spot a cast member wearing a blue name tag, you have found someone special. That distinctive marker signifies the , the highest honor bestowed upon Disney employees. Kapiʻolani Community College Hospitality and Tourism [HOST] alumnus Robert “Robbie” Pearson recently joined these elite ranks, a distinction achieved by only about 1% of cast members across the company.

Pearson, who graduated from Kealakehe High School before earning two associate degrees from Kapiʻolani CC in 2016, began his Disney journey making Dole Whips in Disney World鈥檚 Adventureland during a college internship. Today, he serves as a Magic Kingdom鈥檚 west-side coordinator of sales for merchandise.

Foundation at Kapiʻolani CC

Pearson credits the personalized attention he received from the HOST faculty at Kapiʻolani CC for his professional growth.

“Having a staff that has worked in the industry was something that I really respected and admired,” Pearson said. “They also were always willing to support my education and invest in my future. Their foundation and guidance was something that has stuck with me throughout my career in hospitality.”

While Pearson is now recognized for his strategic mindset at the Magic Kingdom, his former professors remember a student who was simply happy to help—even if it meant wearing a purple velvet suit.

“He was the first to volunteer for any project,” said Professor Dave Evans, who chairs the HOST Department. During a 1960s-themed department fundraiser, Evans asked Pearson to appear as the character Austin Powers.

“Always the good sport, he agreed and even bought his own wig. All night long he was in character giving our guests a good chuckle.”

‘Insanely proud’

The Legacy Award recognizes individuals who embody the company鈥檚 core values: to dream, create and inspire. Colleagues describe Pearson as a “big-picture thinking cast member” with a “strategic mindset.” One peer noted, “Robbie is the hardest working cast member I’ve ever met,” citing his commitment to excellence.

While the Walt Disney Legacy Award included a framed plaque and a recognition ceremony, Pearson said getting to wear the signature blue name tag “almost feels like a magical secret society” for those who understand its significance in the park.
Evans added, “The recognition of earning the Walt Disney Legacy Award is so well deserved, and all of us faculty members in the Hospitality and Tourism Department are insanely proud of him!”

University of Hawaiʻi Maui College students in the (HOST) now have access to a state-of-the-art learning environment on campus designed to launch their careers: The Hospitality Academy of Maui. This fully functioning “lab hotel,” which celebrated its grand opening on November 10, is a unique partnership with top Maui resorts and hotels, providing students with unparalleled real-world experience.

The academy features a lobby, front desk, meeting room and five guest rooms. Each guest room has been “adopted” and outfitted by a specific Maui resort or hotel to reflect its unique brand. This level of industry integration provides students with invaluable opportunities for gaining experience, networking with professionals, and potentially securing internships and future employment.

糖心视频 Maui College students will engage in hands-on learning that mirrors the operations of a real hotel. Through work-integrated education, students will complete some of their required internship hours while practicing the full range of daily tasks such as managing basic facility needs, performing tasks related to front office and housekeeping operations, and working through operational scenarios that build confidence and technical skill.

“What truly sets this program apart is the strength of our industry partnerships, paired with cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning,” said Professor Lorelle Peros, Business & Hospitality Department chair. “Students will train on the same OPERA Cloud (property management) system used by luxury hotels worldwide, experience guest service scenarios that reflect real operational flow, and take part in interactive simulations that build practical skills in both operations and revenue management.”

Powerful partnerships

Industry partnerships include Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Maui Bay Villas, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, lobby sponsor Andaz Maui, and coffee bar sponsor Maui Beach Hotel.

“Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is honored to partner with the 糖心视频 Maui College HOST Program to implement a training environment that allows for emerging hospitality leaders to cultivate essential skills through hands-on experiences that will prepare them for the fast-paced and multi-faceted nature of a career in hospitality,” said Tets Yamazaki, general manager of the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and HOST Advisory Committee co-chair.

Top-performing students may participate in the Elite Management Program, where they shadow the lab manager and take part in day-to-day management decisions, giving them early leadership experience and a deeper understanding of hotel operations.

Chancellor Lui Hokoana added, “This is yet another example of our college鈥檚 commitment to training a workforce that can meet our community鈥檚 future needs in all fields, and because we believe the demand for skilled hospitality professionals has never been greater.”

The Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California, was named the No. 1 Eco-Friendly Hotel by USA Today in August 2025—another in an impressive list of international accolades achieved under the leadership of general manager and Kapiʻolani CC alumnus Tim Lee.

Since 2021, Lee has guided the iconic cliffside resort to worldwide recognition for its luxury service, design and sustainability. In 2024, Post Ranch Inn became one of just 11 hotels in the U.S. to receive the inaugural MICHELIN Guide 3 Keys distinction for outstanding hospitality, and repeated in 2025. The resort was also named the No. 1 Best Hotel in the World (under 50 rooms) in 2024 by the Andrew Harper Members Choice Awards, and has been recognized among the Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth by Robb Report and featured on the cover of Cond茅 Nast Traveler.

It is heady stuff for the Kapiʻolani CC and McKinley High School alumnus. Lee credits the foundation he built studying hotel management at Kapiʻolani CC with launching his path to global success.

“It made a big difference because it made me realize what I want, what career I wanted to pursue,” Lee said. “I think it had to do with my instructors, how they were so personable, how they would answer so many of my questions.”

Starting from the bottom

Lee鈥檚 career spans more than four decades at some of the world鈥檚 most celebrated properties, including the Hotel Bel-Air, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Halekulani, The Kahala Resort & Spa and the Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como, Italy. However, he chooses to pass on the lessons he learned at Kapiʻolani CC to students and young professionals today.

“I say the money will come with experience, just gain the experience,” Lee said. “I started as a dishwasher, then bellman. I was a room attendant. I didn’t care about the position—I just wanted to get the experience. So start from the bottom, work your way up, and it will just do so much more for your career.”

He worked as a bellman at a Waik墨k墨 hotel while attending Kapiʻolani CC in the 1970s. Among his coworkers was a desk clerk named Dave Evans, who is now the chair of Kapiʻolani CC鈥檚 Hospitality and Tourism Management Department.

“Immediately upon meeting Tim, you are impressed with his graciousness, poise and professionalism—he embodies all the genuine qualities of a true hotelier,” Evans said. “Tim was fortunate that these many traits were recognized and developed by the best hospitality pioneers in Hawaiʻi‘s tourism industry.”

Iconic celebrities

Lee鈥檚 resume documents an incredible professional ascent. Spanning multimillion-dollar renovations, hotel pre-openings, and staff training for international brands, he has elevated guest experiences to Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond standards. Along the way, he also befriended many iconic celebrities.

“Here’s Elizabeth Taylor,” Lee said, pointing to her signed picture hanging on the wall of his Waik墨k墨 apartment. (He tries to come home to Hawaiʻi when he can.) “The first time I met her was at the Dorchester in London—beautiful woman, piercing blue eyes, just the nicest person—and then she stayed at the Kahala another time, so it was a reunion when I saw her again.”

For a period of several years, he had lunch every Friday with Nancy Reagan Hotel Bel Air. He first met Reagan when he managed the Regent Beverly Wilshire (where Pretty Woman was filmed and where he also met Julia Roberts and Richard Gere). He lists the late Robert Redford among his top three “nicest celebrities,” noting how he treated every staff member with kindness and would call to thank staff from the operator up. Their connection carried over to the Post Ranch Inn, where Redford would fly in on his private helicopter.

The wow factor

From Honolulu to Hollywood, Italy to Malaysia, and now the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, Lee鈥檚 journey reflects the impact of his Kapiʻolani CC education carried to the world stage. His continued excellence attracts the spotlight of global hospitality achievement, and he shares his wealth of knowledge generously, including with Evans鈥� students.

“When he is back home in Hawaiʻi, he is a regular guest speaker in my classes, mesmerizing the students with numerous tales of the eccentricities of his rich and famous guests,” Evans said. “We are most proud to include Tim as one of our many successful graduates of our hospitality and tourism program.”

Lee said, “I always like to help the younger generations—the future hoteliers of the world. They call me internationally, and I thrive on that.”

However, he is also looking forward to moving back home someday, not to retire, but to possibly consult.

“I want to find a property I can call ‘home’ and give back to Hawaiʻi all that I have learned. Where our people are very happy and proud. A company that believes if you take care of your employees, your employees will take care of your business. That’s when the real magic begins!” Lee said. “That’s my dream—to come back to a property and just make it a wow factor.”

—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa鈥檚 (TIM School) in the hosted its annual Ambassador L.W. “Bill” Lane Jr. and Mrs. Jean Lane Lecture on Sustainability on October 29, at The Kahala Hotel & Resort. The free event drew more than 100 attendees for an engaging conversation on regenerative tourism and sustainable business practices.

The lecture brought together approximately 30 students, 20 faculty members and members of the local business and tourism communities to explore how Hawaiʻi can lead the way in balancing economic vitality with environmental and cultural stewardship.

Audience members were invited to ask questions and engage directly with the panelists, sparking lively discussion about the intersection of sustainability, culture and commerce. Student attendees shared that the event deepened their understanding of what regenerative tourism looks like in action and how they can contribute to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 future.

“The discussion centered on topics that are critical to my future career opportunities, as well as how to position Hawaiʻi as a tourist destination in ways that respect our unique culture, fragile ecosystem and protecting limited resources,” said TIM junior Sally Citrawireja and a Hoʻoilina scholarship recipient. “Being from Maui, not only is this discussion top of mind, but I appreciated the opportunity to build relationships with hospitality leaders. These networking opportunities have personally led to me being offered internships and sparking lifelong mentorships, which I鈥檓 grateful for.”

This year鈥檚 discussion featured three distinguished panelists:

• Jerry Agrusa, TIM School professor, is an internationally respected scholar in hospitality and tourism. A Fulbright senior specialist, and recipient of the Asia Pacific Tourism Association Founder鈥檚 Award and Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association鈥檚 Nā Poʻe Paʻahana “Hospitality Educator of the Year,” Agrusa has published more than 100 papers and presented in more than 25 countries.
• Taylor Ledgerwood, TIM alumna and manager of the Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture and the Arts at The Kahala Hotel & Resort, is a Shidler College alumna and Hoʻoilina scholar. Born and raised in Maunalua, she leads initiatives that connect sustainability, culture and community.
• John Morgan, president and general manager of Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, is a sixth-generation Hawaiʻi resident whose leadership has guided Kualoa Ranch from a small family business into a global model of stewardship, education and diversified agriculture.

The panel was moderated by Xiaodan Mao-Clark, assistant professor at the TIM School, who guided the conversation on how education, collaboration and innovation can strengthen Hawaiʻi鈥檚 visitor industry while preserving its natural and cultural resources.

“Events like this remind us that Hawaiʻi has both the responsibility and opportunity to model regenerative tourism for the world,” said Shidler College Dean Vance Roley. “Bringing together leaders from industry, academia and the community helps our students see how business can drive meaningful change.”

The Lane Lecture Series was established in 2001 through a gift from Ambassador L.W. “Bill” Lane Jr. and his wife, Jean Lane, to address critical issues of sustainability in the travel industry. Each year, it brings together experts and the community to inspire the next generation of business and tourism leaders.

While he was a student at the 鈥嬧�婾niversity of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa (TIM School), Jared Matsuki, executive director of (an organization connecting people to care for the ʻāina), had a defining moment that would shape his future—he attended his first beach cleanup at Makapuʻu Beach Park in 2018. He was a frequent beachgoer, but this time was different because it opened his eyes to a problem hidden under the sand.

“I realized just how much plastic was buried beneath the surface—not just large bottles or bags, but tiny, broken-down fragments of microplastics,” he said. “I remember feeling overwhelmed because I could barely make a dent in one small area. That moment stayed with me; it opened my eyes to a deeper problem—one that鈥檚 invisible unless you鈥檙e really looking.”

Following that cleanup, Matsuki felt inspired to take action. He began volunteering regularly with local nonprofits hosting beach cleanups and learned everything he could about how they were run. He also started making sand sifters with his dad using scrap wood they had at home, and used them during small cleanups he organized with friends a few times a year.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, it gave Matsuki time to reflect on what a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of microplastics and creating a regenerative experience for participants could look like. Starting with a meaningful name, Hele Mua was born. He said the name means “to go forward,” perfectly aligning with the organization鈥檚 mission—connecting tourism and the local community to work together to protect and preserve the ʻāina (land) through Native Hawaiian practices that inspire sustainable living.

By 2023, the organization obtained its nonprofit status and has been growing steadily. Matsuki is joined by fellow alumni Romel Gaspar, account recruiting manager at Actalent (a company connecting talent with engineering and technical opportunities), who serves as the board鈥檚 community engagement and outreach manager, and Savanna Diorec, catering and conference coordinator for Prince Waikiki, who serves as social media manager. The trio, along with three more board members, host events, partner with community organizations and create hands-on stewardship opportunities.

A strong TIM School foundation

During his time as a student, Matsuki said he took full advantage of opportunities available to him, including leadership roles in TIMSA (Travel Industry Management Student Association) and Eta Sigma Delta. He also participated in the Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association鈥檚 Generational Mentorship Program, studied abroad in Tokyo and completed internships. He reflects that these experiences—alongside impactful courses from professors such as Jerry Agrusa—helped him gain perspective.

“I got to see tourism from so many angles—as a student, an employee, an intern and a volunteer,” he said. “That helped shape how I see the industry鈥檚 role in Hawaiʻi and why I believe Hele Mua鈥檚 mission—to bridge tourism with culture and community—is so important. A lot of what we do today is rooted in the experiences and lessons I picked up during those four years.”

For the entire story and more stories like this, .

is launching a transformative workforce development initiative aimed at bolstering Hawaiʻi鈥檚 hospitality industry. The Hawaiʻi Place-Based Hospitality Professional Development Training Program, a 7-week cohort program set to begin in spring 2026, will enroll employees from Kahala Hotel & Resort for a pilot that integrates leadership, Hawaiian values, cultural traditions and global sustainability practices.

The training is focused on non-supervisory and managerial staff who are interested in upskilling to comfortably share the “aloha spirit” and the stories of the place they work and live in.

“Kapiʻolani Community College is proud to partner with industry leaders to reimagine workforce training for Hawaiʻi鈥檚 hospitality industry,” said Kapiʻolani CC Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “We are excited to lead this training initiative, knowing that we are fulfilling our kuleana (responsibility) to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 workforce and communities.”

Hawaiʻi鈥檚 hospitality sector faces mounting pressures, from labor shortages to evolving expectations of global visitors. Coupled with the outmigration of young professionals, these trends demand innovative approaches that attract, retain and grow talent. Kapiʻolani CC鈥檚 new pilot training aims to cultivate a more resilient, future-ready workforce by instilling confidence, pride and a deep connection鈥攅mbedding Hawaiʻi鈥檚 values into the next generation of industry professionals.

Honoring people and place

“This program is an investment in our colleagues,” said Joe Ibarra, vice president and general manager, Kahala Hotel & Resort. “It equips them with the skills and confidence to deliver authentic Hawaiian hospitality and build meaningful careers right here in Hawaiʻi.”

The pilot program is a collaboration among Kapiʻolani CC faculty, who will develop the curriculum and provide instruction, Kahala Hotel & Resort, Hotel and Restaurant Industry Employment and Training Trust (HARIETT), and Banquet Solutions Hawaiʻi, Inc. Their combined efforts work to ensure hospitality leadership in Hawaiʻi remains culturally, environmentally and socially responsible.

“Rooted in leadership, Hawaiian culture, and world-class hospitality, this pilot empowers UNITE HERE! Local 5 members to serve visitors in ways that honor both people and place,” said James Hardway, executive director, HARIETT. “This helps realize Hawaiʻi鈥檚 goal of regenerative tourism, where travel contributes to the well-being and renewal of local communities.”

For alumna Kiana Beimes, a journey that began with educational uncertainty has flourished into a thriving career in the hospitality industry. Beimes, who grew up in Waikīkī surrounded by the tourism sector, now serves as the general manager of Outrigger Waikīkī Paradise Hotel. Her path to success was shaped by perseverance, family support and the invaluable experiences she gained at Kapiʻolani CC.

Beimes鈥� college career began at the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa, before transferring to Kapiʻolani CC in 2010.

“The difference Kapiʻolani CC made in my life is that I felt less intimidated due to the smaller class sizes. I felt a lot more engaged because of the intimate settings, and I found that the faculty themselves were extremely energetic and exhilarating,” she said. “I felt really comfortable. I felt like that鈥檚 where I was able to thrive.”

Beimes discovered her passion for at Kapiʻolani CC. Inspired by a friend鈥檚 enthusiasm for the program, she enrolled and quickly realized that it was the perfect fit.

“It felt like a dream come true, because it was just innately who I am,” she said. “It was very much an aligning moment for me. My passion, my experience and my knowledge of the industry all came together.”

Pillars of support

Beimes credits her success to the unwavering support of her mother, Mapuana Dervaes, who instilled in her a strong work ethic and resilience. She also acknowledges the faculty at Kapiʻolani CC, including Dave Evans, Laure Burke, Sheryl Fuchino-Nishida, and Kawehi Sellers, who played a pivotal role in her academic and professional growth, nominating her twice for the Outstanding Student Award, which Beimes won in 2012.

“Because of them, I was able to continue my education. They made me aware of scholarships and grants, which were crucial for me since finances were a major barrier,” she said. “They were rock solid supporters of me. I consider them to be major pillars in my career.”

Beimes鈥� career with Outrigger began during an internship at the Outrigger Reef Hotel, which was secured through a class at Kapiʻolani CC. Within months, she was offered a full-time position as an overnight auditor. She worked her way up, taking on roles as a front desk agent, guest services manager, and eventually hotel manager at Ohana East. Only 10 years after starting with the company, she was promoted to general manager, overseeing a major renovation and rebranding project that transformed the property into Outrigger Waikīkī Paradise Hotel.

Respected leader

Evans, her former Kapiʻolani CC professor, wrote, “I cannot overstate how proud all of the faculty of the Hospitality and Tourism Education department at Kapiʻolani Community College are of Kiana鈥檚 accomplishments 鈥� how significant it is for us to witness the success of a local girl, a graduate of Kalani High School and the University of Hawaiʻi Community College System become a highly respected voice of leadership in our Hawaiʻi hospitality and tourism industry.”

Now, as an industry leader, Beimes hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions.

“I want visitors to experience the magic I did throughout my childhood,” she said. “Waikīkī will always be my happy place. No matter how much it changes, it has always given me a sense of wonder and excitement. I hope every visitor who comes here gets to feel that at least once in their life.”

—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch

With an eye towards improving curriculum for her students, Kapiʻolani Community College Associate Professor Kawehi Sellers got up close and personal with more than 15 hotels across Hawaiʻi, California, Nevada and Japan, where she conducted in-depth inspections of public areas and guest rooms.

Sellers鈥� mission, over a six-month sabbatical in 2024, was to enhance the HOST 150 – Housekeeping Operations course. She researched the current state of the hotel industry鈥檚 housekeeping operations, including best practices, trends, human resource challenges, and sustainability initiatives, to provide students with cutting-edge, practical knowledge.

“Hotel rooms are the foundation of a hotel鈥檚 product,” Sellers said.

From carpet to ceiling, molding to mold, and bathrooms to balconies, she examined every detail of hotel rooms, documenting her findings through videos and virtual tours.

Her research covered topics such as innovations in post-COVID housekeeping, workforce challenges and effective resource management. These findings have been seamlessly integrated into the HOST 150 curriculum, enabling students to move beyond textbook learning to engage with real-world scenarios through videos, readings and interactive activities.

She highlighted the immense pride and dedication of housekeepers and their managers, who work tirelessly to ensure rooms meet and exceed guests鈥� expectations. This perspective is now central to her teaching, inspiring students to appreciate housekeeping as a vital and rewarding career path in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Workforce development is one of the University of Hawaiʻi System Strategic Plan鈥檚 four imperatives.

Meet Kelly Valdez (BS 鈥�12, 糖心视频 M膩noa), director of food and beverage at Four Seasons Hotel and Residence Seattle. She is a graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa Travel Industry Management School.

“Originally, I was going to school at San Diego State studying business, and then I decided to move into hospitality and tourism there,” said Valdez. “But then I was thinking about what I really wanted to do and where I should be, and it was Hawaiʻi. Tourism is flourishing in Hawaiʻi.”

After graduating from 糖心视频, Valdez worked at the Four Seasons Hawaiʻi as an assistant restaurant manager. In 2015, she relocated to the Four Seasons Seattle to assist with the grand opening of Goldfinch Tavern. In 2024, Valdez became the director of food and beverage.

During her time at 糖心视频, she felt moments of doubt and uncertainty, but was lucky to have a strong support system.

“It鈥檚 really about being able to surround yourself with people that are impactful,” said Valdez. “Are there mentors that you can team up with? Are there professors you can use as a resource? I definitely encourage making those connections as you pursue your career.”

After more than a decade in the hospitality industry, Valdez said serving people is what gets her through the ups and downs.

“The greatest gift in life is the gift of giving, and in hospitality we can do that,” said Valdez. “In hospitality, we don鈥檛 expect anything. We don鈥檛 need the gold star or the trophies. I think that鈥檚 really what drives me.”

Learn more about and other .

The City and County of Honolulu has formally entered into a sister city agreement between Honolulu and Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan with a signing ceremony on May 31. Ahead of the signing, a University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa tourism expert provided guidance to a Shibuya city delegation, including Mayor Ken Hasebe.

The delegation met with (TIM) Professor Jerry Agrusa, along with Director and Professor of TIM Daniel Spencer at 糖心视频 M膩noa in December 2023, to discuss an emerging practice called regenerative tourism. Regenerative tourism is a new form of tourism where “visitors leave the destination in better condition than when they first arrived at the destination.” In addition, regenerative tourism aims to restore, rejuvenate and enhance the health and well-being of destinations, in addition to benefiting the local communities and ecosystems.

Hawaiʻi has implemented regenerative tourism practices, such as M膩lama Hawaiʻi, which encourages visitors to engage in volunteer activities to benefit the environment and community, and community-based initiatives such as visitor access management to ensure benefits to the community and minimal environmental impacts. The Shibuya delegation wanted to learn more about them from Agrusa, an expert in the practice.

“It was a great experience providing guidance to the leaders of Shibuya city in Japan,” Agrusa said. “Sharing our expertise in the field of regenerative tourism helped fulfill some of the goals in the Strategic Plan 2023-2028 by producing research relevant and beneficial to Hawaiʻi, the Asia-Pacific region, and the world, as well as 糖心视频 M膩noa, which include, Excellence in Research, Building a Sustainable and Resilient Campus Environment and Becoming a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning.”

More on the sister city signing

Honolulu city leaders met with Shibuya leaders during the signing ceremony at the Hawaiʻi Expo 2024 in Shibuya. Shibuya became Honolulu鈥檚 36th sister city relationship and the 9th in Japan. The sister city agreement aims to promote cultural exchange, economic cooperation and shared best practices between Honolulu and Shibuya.

“The City and County of Honolulu is thrilled to establish a Sister City partnership with Shibuya, Tokyo,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “This agreement symbolizes the strong bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between our cities. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that will enrich both communities and foster mutual understanding and growth.”

The University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa 鈥� (TIM school) held its 22nd annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala on April 10, at the Sheraton Waik墨k墨. Also marking the college鈥檚 75th anniversary, this year鈥檚 fundraiser raised a record-breaking $517,000 thanks to the generous support of the hospitality and Hawaiʻi business community.

“We鈥檙e proud to recognize Mufi Hannemann, Holden Lim and Kyo-ya as trailblazers in their industry, who continue to inspire current and future graduates,” said Shidler College Dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership Management Vance Roley. “Further, it鈥檚 incredible that over half a million dollars has been raised to support student scholarships. We applaud the efforts of our volunteer table sales committee and the 2024 honorees to greatly amplify our impact.”

2024 honorees

Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism honors individuals who have made significant and long-term contributions to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 tourism industry. This year, the Legacy in Tourism Award was presented to Muliufi 鈥淢ufi鈥� Hannemann; Holden Lim, BBA 鈥�89 was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor; and Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, LP received the Distinguished Service Award.

Hannemann was honored with the Legacy in Tourism Award for his vast contributions to the tourism industry and dedication to fostering the development of students. As president and CEO of the Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association, chair of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority board, and board member of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, Hannemann has played a pivotal role in shaping the state鈥檚 tourism landscape. His founding of the Pacific Century Fellows and service to the TIM school as an advisory council member further showcases his commitment to nurturing future leaders.

Lim, president of Hospitality Link International, Inc., was presented with the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor award, recognizing his professional achievements and continued support of the TIM school. Lim’s career in the hospitality industry began in 1989 at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco and over the years, he contributed significantly to firms like HVS International and Sonnenblick-Goldman Company, orchestrating over $4.5 billion in real estate transactions. Lim remains engaged with the TIM school, currently serving on the TIM Alumni Association as secretary.

Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, LP, was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award for their contributions to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 tourism industry and the community, providing many hours of service and volunteer hours to various local causes. Kyo-ya expanded its footprint across Hawaiʻi and California, including iconic properties like The Royal Hawaiian and Sheraton Maui. Additionally, Kyo-ya serves as a pipeline for hospitality careers, hiring numerous graduates from 糖心视频 and mentoring high school and college students, ensuring the continuity of generations in the islands.

This year鈥檚 presenting sponsor was Marriott International; contributing sponsors were Bank of Hawaii; Central Pacific Bank; First Hawaiian Bank; Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association, Iron Workers Stabilization Fund & Iron Workers Local 625; KV & Associates and Stanford Carr Development; Kyo-ya Hotel & Resorts, LP; “Sheraton Old Timers” group; and The Westin Maui and Trinity Investments. Hawaii Business magazine once again served as the 2024 media partner.

To support the TIM school or Shidler college, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development at Jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org. For a full list of past honorees .

University of Hawaiʻi President David Lassner delivered commencement addresses at Asahi University and Meikai University in Japan in March to about 1,700 graduates. Lassner praised the students for their academic achievements and highlighted the impactful ties between 糖心视频 and the two Japanese institutions over the years.

“I hope you feel great pride in all that you have accomplished, and are excited about new possibilities that are open to you as you enter into the next stage of your life,” said Lassner in his speeches. “I have every confidence looking at you today that the superb education you experienced here has prepared you with the knowledge, skills, and passion to grow as lifelong learners.”

In September 2023, Asahi and Meikai Universities contributed $20,000 toward 糖心视频 relief efforts to help students and employees impacted by the Maui wildfires.

Long-term partnerships

Since 2009, 140 students from Meikai’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management have enriched their education through 糖心视频 summer programs fostering camaraderie and cross-cultural understanding. 糖心视频 students in return have gone on short-term and semester-long exchange programs, which have provided them with valuable experiences in Japanese industry and culture.

The partnership with Asahi University has flourished since 2018, when students from the School of Health Science were hosted at the 糖心视频 Mānoa College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science. This collaboration has resulted in successful outcomes for students and faculty, with ongoing research focusing on enhancing the safety and fitness of senior citizens through new technologies.

“As our long-term relationship continues, the University of Hawaiʻi will be taking further steps toward building and sustaining our partnership,” said Lassner.

Strengthening ties

During his commencement address, Lassner shared a new initiative to explore the development of a “micro-campus” at Meikai University that will enable respective students to earn credits and degrees while studying at their home campuses.

“This has been successful at other universities, and I have every expectation that with our strong partnership, Meikai and 糖心视频 can make this work for our students as well,” Lassner said.

To further the exchange support between the institutions, later this year, students from Asahi and Meikai will participate in various short-term programs at 糖心视频, including disciplines such as health sciences, business administration, hospitality and tourism management, English and real estate sciences.

Wade Takano attended in 2002 after graduating from Mid-Pacific Institute, but quickly became much more enamored with the social aspect of college than the academic one.

He left and worked in the hospitality industry for 13 years before deciding to come back to school. Focused, he graduated in 2017 with a degree in and a concentration in management. Today, Takano is a front office manager at the Wayfinder Waikiki Hotel and was a featured panelist at a Hospitality Leadership Forum in February hosted at Kapiʻolani CC, and made possible by the Kitaro Watanabe Tourism Training Series Endowment as part of a series of events celebrating National Career and Technical Education Month.

“My journey, actually coming back to school in my early 30s, it took a lot of courage for me to realize that I wanted to be in the hospitality industry,” Takano said. “And the faculty and staff did a great job just sharing their experiences with me and really putting the focus that this is where I want to be. Truly, I think, in my life, this is the best decision I’ve ever made, coming back to school.”

It made me inspired to want to do what I want, especially in the travel industry.
—Junell Escobar

Takano and fellow alumni Noriko Bergstrom (Hawaiian Airlines), Miyuki Clancey (Hawaiian Airlines), Sisilia “Sisi” Poʻoi (Hawaiʻi Convention Center), Jacki Slaton (Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort) and Jasmine Tamanaha (Hawaiian Airlines), touched on a number of topics, including their unique career paths, leadership qualities they look for in themselves and others, and education advice.

“As I listened to the panel and all the good advice I heard, it made me inspired to want to do what I want, especially in the travel industry,” said Kapiʻolani CC student Junell Escobar.

Kapiʻolani CC鈥檚 Hospitality and Tourism Education department is the largest community college program in the state and aims to support workforce development for 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈鈥檚 largest industry.

“The tourism industry is one that鈥檚 always changing, so you鈥檝e just got to take a risk and you鈥檝e just got to learn to adapt with the industry,” said Slaton, a 2018 graduate who is now a guest service manager at Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort. “The tourism industry is here to stay, especially in the state of Hawaiʻi. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable and learning new things.”

—By Kim Baxter

After 15 years of working as a flight attendant in Japan, Kazuyuki “Kaz” Shoji found himself jobless due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of succumbing to adversity, he seized the opportunity to further his career in the hospitality industry. Drawn to Kapiʻolani Community College鈥檚 HOST (hospitality and tourism) program鈥檚 reputation, Kaz moved to Hawaiʻi in 2022 to begin his studies.

In a heartfelt commencement speech to his fellow Kapiʻolani CC graduates, Shoji recounted his transformative journey and reflected on his attainment of a certificate of achievement in hospitality operations management through the HOST program. As a former part-time student assistant to Sheila Kitamura, Health Sciences Department chair, he credited her with sharing valuable advice.

“Persistence and learning from failure will open paths you never imagined,” said Shoji. “Believe in your unlimited potential. These words came true because of my mentor, Sheila Kitamura, who never gave up on me.”

Finding community at Kapiʻolani CC

Shoji鈥檚 interactions with many HOST program faculty and staff, including assistant professor Amy Shiroma, counselor Sheryl Fuchino-Nishida, and program chair Laure Burke, have been instrumental in shaping his journey and finding a sense of community.

“Kaz brings a burst of positive energy when he walks in a room and makes everyone around him feel valued and important,” said Shiroma. “Kaz鈥檚 natural hospitality and professionalism, and his willingness to take risks and initiative, are traits that will ensure his success in any career pathway he chooses.”

Shoji plans to remain in Hawaiʻi and begin a one-year practical training opportunity provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that allows international students to work for up to a year in the U.S.

“Regardless of your situation, if you encounter a problem that you can not solve on your own, please do not hesitate to ask for help,” Shoji said. “Inspired by (the Kapiʻolani CC faculty and staff鈥檚) dedication to students, I have a new dream now that involves helping others through education.”

Immediately following the deadly Maui wildfires in August, student and Maui native Dave Ramos diverted from his plans to study abroad in Japan this semester and headed home to help his community.

“Dave, at that time, was actually going through his visa process to get to Japan, dealing with the Japanese consulate in Honolulu,” said Aya Hara-Joesting, interim manager for Leeward CC鈥檚 . “I can鈥檛 even imagine what that was like, going through that while seeing what was happening on Maui.”

Ramos felt compelled to assist in the aftermath and volunteered at the Baldwin High School gym shelter.

“It was heartbreaking to see all of the displaced families,” he said. “It was eye opening and hits a little bit close to home knowing that this kind of tragedy happened to Maui, of all places.”

Hospitality industry perspective

A native of Wailuku, Ramos鈥� experience as a catering and conference services intern and restaurant busser at the Grand Wailea Maui sparked his interest in the hospitality industry. After earning an associate鈥檚 degree in from , he decided he wanted a career in mid-level management at a luxury hotel. Leeward CC鈥檚 one-year international study/abroad program was the best next step for him. It would send him to Leeward CC鈥檚 partner, the in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.

“I lived in Okinawa from 2017 to 2019 while I was in the military. I always wanted to return and experience living abroad as a civilian.” Ramos said. “I also had a personal interest in learning Japanese, because, in Hawaiʻi, Okinawan and Japanese culture is intertwined with Hawaiʻi鈥檚 cultural identity. I want to relate to Japanese and Okinawan visitors on a personal basis by getting to know their culture and speaking to them in their own native tongue.”

The aftereffects of the fires also reinforced Ramos鈥� ultimate career goal.

“Tourism in Hawaiʻi is essential to its economy,” he said. “Most of my friends鈥� and family鈥檚 jobs were reduced or cut because of the lack of tourists (after the fires). The Maui fires made international news and have made people want to visit Maui in order to support the local economy. The following years are essential in order to keep Maui’s economy thriving.”

Future hospitality leader

Ramos is currently thriving in Japan—learning the language and immersing himself in the culture.

“All the education I鈥檓 getting and experiences I鈥檝e been having will benefit me in the future,” he said. “The most impactful thing I鈥檝e experienced so far is becoming friends with both local Japanese and international students. All come from different countries and vary in age, ethnicity, and education. This has inspired me to continue my education, as most of my international classmates have either completed their master’s program or started their PhDs at such a young age. Everyone at the university has a personal and educational goal, yet we are all connected with experiencing Okinawan culture as well as learning Japanese.”

After completing his study abroad program with Leeward CC and earning his bachelor鈥檚 degree from 糖心视频 West Oʻahu, Ramos intends to embark on a management career at one of Oʻahu鈥檚 many luxury hotels. Wherever he lands, Ramos is equipped with a great education, Maui鈥檚 resilience and sense of responsibility to the community.

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—By Bonnie Friedman