and the have been recognized as some of the nation’s highest-performing institutions for student satisfaction. Both campuses have earned a place on the inaugural , released by higher education technology company EdSights.

The SVS Honors List recognizes the top-performing 20 percent of participating colleges and universities within each higher education sector, celebrating institutions that set the national standard for student experience and success. Windward CC ranked No. 2 overall among 2-year public institutions nationwide. The 糖心视频 West Oʻahu ranked No. 9 among 4-year public institutions.

Delivering on mission

This recognition signals that 糖心视频 campuses are delivering on their core mission to provide accessible, supportive and high-quality educational environments. According to the report, top-performing 2-year public institutions like Windward CC are providing access, affordability, flexible scheduling and dedicated support staff to help students balance school with work and family.

“The voice of our beloved students in this survey affirms how they flourish through the aloha and dedication of our faculty and staff who live our mission and values,” said Windward CC Chancellor Ardis Eschenberg. “Windward Community College is a magical place to learn and work because of our people.”

At 4-year public institutions like 糖心视频 West Oʻahu, students highly value approachable faculty, relevant coursework, strong campus communities and comprehensive student services, such as advising and counseling, the report said.

“It brings me great pride to see our campus celebrated through the voices of our own students,” said 糖心视频 West Oʻahu Interim Chancellor Carlos Pe帽aloza. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our faculty and staff, and it affirms that student support and success are at the heart of everything we do at 糖心视频 West Oʻahu.”

‘Where students can thrive’

The SVS benchmark is unique because it captures satisfaction directly from the students themselves at scale. The 2026 SVS Report analyzed feedback from more than 125,000 students attending 257 colleges and universities.

“At a moment when higher education is often thought of in the context of headlines about declining confidence and enrollment challenges, the Student Voice Score^® tells a more nuanced story—students are telling us that many colleges and universities are delivering exceptional experiences,” said Carolina Recchi, co-founder and co-CEO of EdSights. “The institutions recognized on this year’s Honors List have distinguished themselves by listening to students, responding to their needs, and creating environments where students can thrive.”

Under a five-year contract, EdSights has provided each 糖心视频 campus with a proactive AI chatbot designed to check in with students, connect them to resources and provide valuable insights into student needs. The initiative is part of a systemwide student success strategy to create a “common standard of care” for 糖心视频 students across the state.

The Learning Resource Center at Kauaʻi Community College buzzed with energy as 77 incoming students and their families flooded the campus in June for the sixth annual ʻOhana Night, turning the often daunting college enrollment process into a supportive celebration of future academic success.

Attendees tackled the essentials of starting college鈥攔egistering for classes, applying for financial aid and navigating campus resources鈥攁ll in one place. Nursing staff offered free TB testing to clear health requirements, while Student Government Association members engaged with future leaders. Students in the (a scholarship and support program) connected with mentors for the first time, creating a strong sense of community that stretched from the food tables to the resource booths.

Uplifting students

“[ʻOhana Night] turns what can be an intimidating, bureaucratic process into a welcoming, celebratory community event where we uplift our students and their families as they begin their academic journey,” said Admissions Specialist Keanna Pavao.

Attendees received personalized support to ensure they were ready for the fall. Workshops on financial aid and employment opportunities provided extra value, while campus tours showcased vital services like the Veteran Support Center and the on-campus food pantry.

With nearly 48% of Kauaʻi CC
students identifying as first-generation college students during the 2025–26 academic year, the family-centric model of ʻOhana Night has become increasingly critical.

“This event is unique because it’s an opportunity to visit the college after hours and allows students to get all of their questions answered 鈥� and complete everything they need to enroll at Kauaʻi CC,” said Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Noʻeau Keopuhiwa. “We encourage students to bring their parents, children and anyone else in their family who wants to learn more about college and the opportunities available to them.”

As families walked away with their next steps secured, the event solidified its role as a cornerstone of the Kauaʻi CC experience鈥攈elping new students launch their academic futures with confidence. For enrollment assistance, visit .

More than 4,000 haumāna (students), faculty and staff filled the campus on August 25, for the annual .

The afternoon event featured a resource fair spanning Legacy Path, Kuykendall Lawn and the Campus Center Courtyard. More than 50 campus departments and programs participated, sharing information on student resources, activities and giveaways. Haumāna explored opportunities ranging from academics to activities and employment, all while enjoying food, games and entertainment.

“Here at Mānoa it is all about the student experience,” 糖心视频 Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis Syrmos said. “This first day, Welina Mānoa brings all our students together here at Campus Center and on Legacy Path. We are excited to have our students back on campus. They’re gonna have an unbelievable experience.”

“It’s definitely valuable to know the resources the campus provides鈥攁ll the different departments and all the important offices like financial aid,” said James Taylor, a 糖心视频 Mānoa senior majoring in travel industry management. “There are so many different majors to potentially decide on. It will definitely help any new student or even returning students figure out what they want to do in the future.”

The event also included prize drawings and interactive activities designed to help students connect with campus resources and build community. Both new and returning Rainbow Warriors and Wahine took part in the festivities, marking the start of the fall 2025 semester.

Welina Mānoa served as the semester鈥檚 first major student engagement event. Next up is the free Welcome Back Bash on Friday, August 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Campus Center Courtyard. 糖心视频 the for more details.

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 recently opened a new space in the Campus Center. The Place for Encouraging Awareness, Calmness, and Enlightenment Room was soft-launched in May and is located in the Campus Center cafeteria room 203 B/C.

The two rooms, which were formerly conference rooms, include chairs, yoga mats and empty areas for activities to promote mental, emotional and spiritual health.

“Before this, I had to use library Zoom rooms just to find a quiet and secure place to pray,” said Queenie Abarcar, a double major in biology and psychology. “The PEACE Room gives a safe space to reconnect and stay spiritually grounded throughout the day.”

The project was first proposed by Raiyan Rafid, a member of the . He said the campus lacked spaces that could be used for reflection, prayer and meditation. The PEACE Room will hopefully fill that gap.

“We鈥檝e learned since COVID how essential mental health is to student success,” Rafid said. “This room is a small but meaningful step toward giving students the space to breathe, reset and care for themselves.”

Currently, the PEACE Room is open only to 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students, faculty and staff. To access the room, students and faculty have to go to the at Campus Center room 209, where they will activate their 惭腻苍辞补 One Card for the semester.

In 2024, the space underwent renovations to transform it into a quiet, flexible environment designed for wellness and reflection.

“Our facilities team did an amazing job bringing this vision to life,” Rafid said. “They really transformed the space to create a peaceful, welcoming space that feels intentional.”

A moment to pause and reflect

Rafid said its location at the heart of Campus Center works to the room鈥檚 advantage.

“A lot of students and faculty pass through after lunch, and having a quiet space nearby gives them a chance to pause, reflect or simply reset before heading back to class or work,” Rafid said.

“Providing a dedicated space for reflection and prayer honors the diverse spiritual needs of our students, staff and faculty,” said Arif Rahman, an affiliate graduate faculty in the Department of Electrical Engineering. “It鈥檚 encouraging to see our campus becoming more inclusive and welcoming for all.”

During the three-year pilot phase, Rafid and campus stakeholders will be able to collect usage data, assess patterns of engagement, and evaluate the room鈥檚 effectiveness. These insights will help determine the long-term viability of the space upon completion of the pilot phase.

Learn more about the 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 .

—By Grant Nakasone

University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno was awarded the 2024 National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Region VI President’s Award, recognizing his leadership and commitment to advancing the quality of student life on campus by supporting student affairs staff and initiatives. Bruno received the award at the Western Regional Conference in San Diego in November.

Bruno has served as 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Provost since 2019 and previously as vice chancellor for research. He has earned praise for his dedication to students, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 Maui wildfires. Colleagues have commended his transformative impact on the university and the broader community.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed鈥攏ot just academically, but in all aspects of their development,” said Bruno.“This award is actually a reflection of and a testament to the dedication and hard work of my colleagues at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补. Together, we鈥檝e created a supportive environment that empowers all students to reach their full potential. It鈥檚 about fostering a campus culture where students can thrive and become the leaders of tomorrow.”

Student-centered leadership

Lori Ideta, vice provost for student success (retired in 2023), highlighted Bruno鈥檚 prioritization of student well-being, even during crises. Reflecting on his leadership during the pandemic, she said, “Provost Bruno was acutely aware of the essential staff鈥檚 unwavering commitment to student success, even when their own healths were at risk. He was, and remains, their biggest cheerleader.”

Colleagues also noted Bruno鈥檚 commitment to equity and student support services, including mental health resources, disability access, and advocacy for military-connected students. Ideta underscored his determination to preserve vital student and academic affairs programs during financially challenging times, even as many campuses faced budget cuts鈥攁n approach she described as a defining example of his student-centered leadership.

Laura Lyons, interim vice provost for academic excellence, credited Bruno鈥檚 personal experience as a first-generation college student for shaping his holistic approach to leadership. “He and his twin were the first in his family to attend college, so he knows the generational challenges and opportunities his parents鈥� migration made possible and that experience resonates with many 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students, helping them see that they are not so different from this man who leads their campus.”

Bruno鈥檚 leadership was also evident during the recent Maui wildfires. Lyons said, “He understands that, while immediate needs are overwhelming and must be addressed, we, as a university, must demonstrate that our commitment will last as long as necessary.”

Impact on research, graduate student support

An ocean engineer by training, Bruno is passionate about research. He understands firsthand the impact that research opportunities can have on students and has championed programs that provide the resources necessary for students to succeed.

With his support, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 has allocated more than $4.5 million to fund the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) since its inception a few years ago, enabling transformative undergraduate research and capstone projects.

Mark Willingham, Jr., president of the , also commended Bruno鈥檚 transparent leadership and advocacy for graduate students, including increasing graduate assistant pay, improving grievance policies and implementing sick and bereavement leave.

“Every institution should have a Dr. Michael Bruno, but there is only one, and we鈥檙e so fortunate to have him. His impact is palpable and contagious in all the great ways leaders should be,” said Nikki K膩healani Chun, vice provost for enrollment management, who credits Bruno for fostering her professional growth and leadership as a Native Hawaiian and first-generation college graduate.

More than 3,000 people are expected to attend on October 26, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. The free event is for prospective students and their families along with the general public so they can see firsthand why 糖心视频 Mānoa is considered one of the best universities in the country. Organizers say current students and employees are also welcome.

“We are thrilled to provide this opportunity for prospective students and the community to learn more about 糖心视频 Mānoa and find why we are consistently ranked among the best universities in the world,” said Provost Michael Bruno. “It is also a chance to speak and interact with current students, faculty and staff, the people who make this university great.”

Booths, displays and hands-on workshops featuring more than 100 academic departments will line iconic McCarty Mall, Legacy Path and the Campus Center courtyard. There will also be campus tours, including special tours of the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene鈥檚 Translational Health Science Simulation Center, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resource鈥檚 Certified Kitchen and the Esports Lab.

糖心视频ors can also explore interactive exhibits and activities that cover a range of topics, from education to oceanography and medicine. The Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Success and Hamilton Library will also be open to visitors.

“糖心视频 Mānoa has so much to offer academically and there are so many services available to help our students on their journey,” said 糖心视频 Mānoa Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun, who is responsible for Discover 糖心视频 Mānoa. “We want everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about our campus, even if you are not a prospective student, because 糖心视频 Mānoa is something everyone can take pride in.”

Each attendee will receive a 糖心视频 Mānoa tote bag, event/program map, bookstore coupon and a coupon for $2 off retail dining options, including Starbucks, Ding Tea, Food Trucks and Sodexo Concessions. Attendees will also have the chance to win prizes throughout the day.

Two shuttle routes will be available for attendees interested in visiting student housing, and the Music Building Complex.

Free parking will be available in Zone 20 until 1:30p.m. For more information, visit .

Pāʻina on the Path and homecoming football

Following the open house, 糖心视频 Mānoa will host Pāʻina on the Path, a free homecoming celebration from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. This Homecoming Edition on Legacy Pathway will feature a 糖心视频 Alumni Maker鈥檚 Market, Hawaiʻs Finest DJ & Kickoff Concert Series featuringPeniDean, food vendors, a beer garden, keiki zone with inflatables and football-themed games, and more.

The Rainbow Warrior football team will then take on Nevada in this seasonʻs homecoming game. Kick off at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletic Complex is at 6 p.m.

More than 4,000 students, faculty and staff attended the postponed Welina Mānoa welcome back to campus event on September 4 at the .

“I can feel a lot of excitement from the students here just like looking at the different clubs and stuff. And especially as a freshman looking at the different clubs they have over here is really good,” freshman Presley Okimoto said.

More than 100 booths stretching from Campus Center through Legacy Path featured resources and information from a variety of service offices, schools and colleges, clubs and food.

“I think there’s a lot of information about the stuff that I didn’t know there was and then like, the research stuff. I wasn’t like, if I didn’t go here then I wouldn’t know about it at all,” freshman Noah Castro said.

“So this is a chance for not just for students to explore what we offer, but also for other offices and departments to promote and get themselves out there because we have amazing resources out there,” Welina Mānoa organizer Allyson Lagatuz said.

The 糖心视频 Band, 糖心视频 Cheerleaders and Rainbow Dancers performed and spent time helping the crowd learn the football fight song.

The event was originally scheduled for the first day of classes on August 26, but was rescheduled because of the threat of heavy rains from the remnants of Hurricane Hone.

The University of Hawaiʻi is deeply committed to the right to free speech and the protections of the first amendment of the U.S. constitution. Peaceful protests and demonstrations are part of the rich history of 糖心视频 and universities around the country. It is absolutely essential that all who wish to share their views can do so and conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful to others.

Many in our 糖心视频 ʻohana are personally touched by specific events. But as others have said, our hearts must be big enough to mourn the loss of lives and suffering in both Israel and Gaza. Minimizing the suffering of civilians and hostages, wherever and whoever they are, is not who we are at 糖心视频. Nor are we a place that can tolerate either anti-semitism or Islamophobia. And we cannot make our points heard by trying to silence the voices of others. These tactics tarnish the message of anyone who wants to express their views on world events. These tactics do not show aloha.

Diverse perspectives held on local and global conflicts and controversies have always flourished at 糖心视频. Higher education is where our students must learn to coexist with others who hold different views—as we must all do in life. Being able to share views and to listen with respect and appreciation of others is essential to a healthy and thriving campus and community. It is the only path to solutions. It is a way to show aloha.

Nonetheless, we know that some protected speech can be extremely hurtful to others. At the onset of the events of October 7, in Israel and the subsequent actions in Gaza, 糖心视频 reached out directly to students with offers of assistance. We continue to extend that support to students who are impacted. We take great pride in the fact that our 糖心视频 campuses are among the most diverse higher education institutions in the nation and 糖心视频 stands strongly committed to non-discrimination and working together to overcome intolerance. We all benefit when our entire community feels safe and secure and heard.

—糖心视频 President David Lassner and 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno

is back at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补! On Friday, April 26, the iconic duo, , will headline the musical event at Andrews Amphitheatre. The event will offer concessions as well as a raffle for a chance to win 15,000 Hawaiian Airlines miles for three lucky winners.

Tickets can be purchased through . This event is open to the public, and exclusive discounted rates are offered for 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students.

Event details

Aloha Bash 2024 will be held on Friday, April 26, at Andrews Amphitheater. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with the show to start at 6 p.m.

糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students must present a valid 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 I.D. for entry. Rates for 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students are as follows:

• $5 for early bird, through April 16
• $10, April 17—26

General public can also purchase tickets:

• $20 for early bird, through April 16
• $30, April 17—26

Aloha Bash is sponsored by 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Campus Center Board Activities Council (CCBAC), and co-sponsored by Coke Hawaiʻi, Raising Cane鈥檚, The District and Hawaiian Airlines.

For any questions contact CCBAC at (808) 956-4491, or visit for additional information.

About the artist

Surfaces is an American duo group consisting of Forrest Frank and Colin Padalecki, with a sound that鈥檚 a blend of surf music, jazz, pop rock and more. They are well-known for their Billboard Top 100 hit, “Sunday Best” and their collaboration with Elton John on song, “Learn to Fly.”

Music, videos and other information on Surfaces can be found , or on their .

The esports scene at the University of Hawaiʻi took a major leap forward as students from seven 糖心视频 campuses engaged in friendly competition at the 2024 Kawaii Kon.

Held at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center, March 29–31, students from 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补, 糖心视频 West Oʻahu, 糖心视频 Hilo, Leeward Community College, Kapiʻolani CC, Windward CC and Kauaʻi CC participated in a Super Smash Bros. tournament.

“The overall purpose of the Smash tournament is to not only offer students a highly competitive venue for esports, but to also have them experience the larger (and extremely popular) digital games, anime, and cosplay events locally,” said Nyle Sky Kauweloa, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 esports program director. “This is not just a tournament, but an entire cultural experience for the students.”

“This was my second time attending the 糖心视频 collegiate tournament, and it was just as awesome to see all the campuses come together in spirited and friendly competition,” said 糖心视频 Hilo student Logan Nobriga. “I really appreciated how supportive players were, not just of their own teams, but of the other teams as well. Hilo came and gave it our all, and I’m really grateful our new players had the chance to experience some competition and got to show their skill to the other campuses.”

With more than 20,000 attendees over the three-day event, the success of the 糖心视频 esports programs were on full display for the Kawaii Kon fans.

“Kapiʻolani‘s debut at the Kawaii Kon tournament was a significant step for our club, having been established just two months prior,” said Adam Moura, Kapiʻolani CC instructor and esports advisor. “It was a great opportunity for growth and learning, and we came away from it inspired to continue developing our skill for future competitions.”

Keala Chock, Leeward CC vice chancellor for academic affairs, added, “For Leeward Community College’s students to be part of systemwide esports events is not just about competition; it’s about fostering a sense of community, collaboration, and innovation among our students, shaping them into well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.”

Continuing collaboration

While the tournament at Kawaii Kon is the one event each year where 糖心视频 brings together students from several campuses together to compete, organizers hope to increase the collaboration throughout the year. The esports programs would like to acknowledge Southwest Airlines for flying in students from Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi, Bank of Hawaii for 3D-printing trophies, Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union for providing scholarships and the Academy for Creative Media System (ACM System) for funding the program.

“Just as ACM System started at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 and now supports programs on all 10 糖心视频 campuses, my discussions about funding esports with President Lassner six years ago always had the goal of rolling this out to every 糖心视频 campus that wants to participate,” said Chris Lee, founder and director of ACM System. “I am very grateful to President Lassner who brought on Sky Kauweloa and his team to grow 糖心视频 Esports to the global powerhouse it is today and even more proud to see so many of our campuses and students engaging through esports.”

More stories on 糖心视频鈥檚 esports program.

The (NASPA), the nation驶s largest student affairs professional in higher education organization awarded the Pillars of the Profession to University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 Christine Quemuel, the interim assistant vice provost for student diversity and inclusion.

[This award] represents generations of my family and my community who never even imagined that college was possible.
—Christine Quemuel

“I am overwhelmed by this honor, because the award isn鈥檛 just about me. It represents generations of my family and my community who never even imagined that college was possible,” said Quemuel, a first-generation college student with military connections and both of Yonsei (fourth generation Japanese immigrant) heritage and the daughter of an immigrant parent from the Philippines. “They are always with me in the work I do to provide access, opportunities and support for student success.”

Commitment to enhancing access and success

Quemuel has dedicated 27 years of service at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补. As part of the (SEED), she is committed to enhancing access and success for traditionally excluded student groups. She manages scholarships, facilitates lifelong learning for seniors, and implements policies for campus diversity and inclusion. She oversees various programs promoting educational equity, providing support services for a diverse student body and actively contributes to initiatives like the 惭腻苍辞补 Commission on Inclusion and Diversity, aligning with the university’s equity and diversity goals.

“I am eternally grateful to the entire SEED family, past and present—a truly amazing team of students and professionals who are deeply committed to communities that have been historically excluded and marginalized in education. I am able to do what I do because of their dedication to the success of our students, their families and communities,” she said.

“I can think of no one more deserving to be honored as a NASPA Pillar of the Profession than Christine Quemuel,” said nominator Romando Nash, associate vice president of student life services at the University at Nevada at Reno, who worked closely with Quemuel through their involvement with NASPA. “She is a consummate professional in all that she does and has made a difference in countless students驶 lives. Her congenial presence, keen insights and genuine care for students and the profession is not only impressive but a model for many professionals across the nation. Her being named a Pillar of the Profession is an honor that is long overdue.”

Quemuel is an alumna of 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 where she earned her MA in American Studies and her PhD in Educational Administration. She earned her BA from Fairhaven College-Western Washington University.

Quemuel will be officially recognized as a Pillar of the Profession during NASPA Annual Conference in Seattle, WA, on March 12.

Students who are the first in their families to go to college were well-represented at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 First-Generation Student Celebration on November 8. The event connected nearly 200 students with invaluable campus resources and contacts, and also treated them to free boba, tote bags and giveaways.

The event also provided an opportunity for faculty, staff and students to share their experiences and their journey as first-generation students to inspire others in the community.

Being a positive role model

Kikilia Lani is a first-generation student of Kanaka ʻOīwi, Boricua, Ilocano and Chinese descent. She graduated and earned degrees from (AS in early childhood education and teaching) and at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 (BA and ME). She is currently a PhD student in education and an instructional and support specialist with the . She said poverty and kuleana is what led her to college.

“I didn驶t want to be poor anymore, and I recognized education as a means to socioeconomic mobility,” Lani said. “I felt that excelling in school was one way I could show appreciation to my mom and honor the struggles she went through while raising me, while serving as a positive role model for my younger siblings.”

While it can feel lonely and difficult at times, Lani said she feels privileged to be a first-generation student. “I recognize that each accomplishment contributes to the realization of the dreams of those who came before me. Knowing that those who come after me can focus less on the struggle and more on their dreams鈥ives me pride and makes me want to keep going…”

She reminds other first-generation students to not be afraid to ask for help, which can lead to meaningful connections, new insights and exciting experiences.

Pathway for better opportunities

Theresa Crichfield is 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 associate vice provost for and dean of students. For her, college was the pathway for opportunities to better herself and her family.

“My grandparents fled a dictatorship in Cuba and came to the USA for the American Dream. I can tell you, our family was fortunate enough to make it here,” she shared. “I was able to blaze my own trail with the support of my family and made my grandparents and parents proud that I was able to be college-educated and attain more than they did.”

In her role overseeing various student services, she emphasizes that the campus is packed with resources and people who want to support first-generation students on their journey to graduation. “Building a network of friends and mentors is crucial!” she said.

New experiences

Micah Mizukami is the associate director for the and a first-generation Japanese and Okinawan student. He earned his MA in linguistics and is currently pursuing his PhD in second language studies at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补. He earned his BA in Japanese Studies at Willamette University in Oregon.

Growing up in the small town of ʻEleʻele, Kauaʻi led him to venture somewhere new and different for his undergraduate college experience. “I always loved traveling and seeing new places and meeting new people, and I wanted the same for my college experience,” said Mizukami.

His advice for other first-generation students? He said meeting regularly with college advisors and finding first-generation groups on campus will help them find a sense of community with other students from similar backgrounds. “These are things I wish I knew more about when I was an undergrad!”

Ellen Lokelani Kenolio has been appointed vice chancellor for student affairs, and Michaelyn Nākoa Hall has been appointed to the newly created position of interim executive director of strategy at Kapiʻolani Community College. Both appointments were effective on August 1.

Ellen Lokelani Kenolio

Kenolio has more than 25 years of administrative and student affairs experience in the University of Hawaiʻi System. She has served as the interim vice chancellor for student affairs at 糖心视频 West Oʻahu and has led successful efforts in enrollment services, equity and access, Native Hawaiian student success and student first-year experience programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kenolio as the vice chancellor for student affairs,” said Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “Loke comes to us with rich experiences and a strong track record in student services and support as well as teaching in Hawaiʻi. Loke鈥檚 expertise in enrollment services, equity and access, student engagement, academic advising, especially, will undoubtedly be a critical asset to Kapiʻolani Community College.”

Kenolio earned a BA in speech communications and an MA in educational leadership from 糖心视频 Mānoa; and earned an EdD in educational leadership from the University of Southern California. Her EdD research focused on the areas of high-impact student success programs of persistence, retention and graduation.

“I am grateful and honored to join the Kapiʻolani campus ʻohana,” said Kenolio. “I am excited to work with the campus community in perpetuating the mission and values of Kapiʻolani and providing students the services needed to support their success.”

Michaelyn Nākoa Hall

As the interim director of strategy, Nākoa Hall will oversee Kapiʻolani CC鈥檚 accreditation process, strategic development and communication and the coordination of Native Hawaiian student support resources and services.

“I am very pleased that Dr. Nākoa Hall has accepted the role of interim director of strategy,” said Takabayashi. “Dr. Nākoa Hall has been instrumental in leading student affairs through the recent transition as an executive, co-led the strategic plan development, and is a prominent leader in enhancing the capacity for Native Hawaiian student success. Her diverse experiences at our college in various roles in AGOs, faculty leadership, grants and administration, whilst remaining a staunch supporter of Native Hawaiians and all students, will bring so much value to our entire campus through this role.”

Nākoa Hall has been with Kapiʻolani CC since 2005 in various capacities and leadership roles in student affairs. In her primary and campus leadership roles, she acquired extensive knowledge of student affairs programming, grant acquisition and management, budget management, evaluation and assessment, shared governance and 糖心视频 System and campus policies.

“I am honored and humbled to have been offered this position as the interim executive director of strategy,” said Nākoa Hall. “The position combines the kuleana for three very critical areas for the college. I am enthusiastic about accepting this challenging role and will approach it with renewed energy to support the institution鈥檚 mission to promote student success and serve our community.”

She was born and raised in Honolulu and earned a BA in sociology from 糖心视频 Mānoa, and an MS in counseling psychology with a concentration in community counseling from Chaminade University. Her PhD in educational psychology from 糖心视频 Mānoa was conferred in May 2020, and her dissertation topic was, “The Influence of Self-Efficacy and Hawaiian Identity on Academic Performance among First-Year Native Hawaiian Community College Students.”

The energy and volume were pumped up to the max at the annual music event, Aloha Bash, held April 21, at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补. Hosted by the (CCBAC), hundreds gathered at the Andrews Amphitheatre to hear an exclusive live performance by pop singer, MAX.

“The turnout for Aloha Bash was awesome!” said CCBAC chairwoman Sophia Lopez. “We had a national pop artist join us this year, a first in CCBAC history, as well as amazing openers that people were looking forward to, so we were really excited to see so many people come together to enjoy such great music. I鈥檓 so glad people came out.”

The show opened with the artist JOBY! and his four-piece band The Currents, as well as the band Ragamuffs, whose lead singer Hailey Fines is a graduate from 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 .

Supporting act Ryan Siegel of Party Pupils, a duo which consists of producer Siegel and MAX, played future funk remixes of popular hits and original music, getting the crowd excited for headliner, MAX. The pop star sang a selection of his viral hits, such as “Blueberry Eyes featuring SUGA of BTS” and “Lights Down Low,” and gave attendees a chance to hear one of his unreleased songs, “Strings.” MAX will release his next full studio album in fall 2023.

Although the opportunity to see MAX live was huge for many 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 students, student media organizations Ka Leo O Hawaiʻi and 惭腻苍辞补 Now got up close and personal with the pop singer in a personal interview and chance to capture close-up footage of his performance.

“I really enjoyed interviewing MAX,” said Lili Hurd, a student in Ka Leo. “He was really down to earth and cared a lot about his craft and his fans. He was passionate about supporting the students at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 and just wanted to create a magical performance.”

Lopez extends her thanks to BAMP Project; KT糖心视频; 102.7 Da Bomb; Micah Banks from Power; Sodexo; student media organizations Ka Leo and 惭腻苍辞补 Now; the numerous volunteers; and everyone at Campus Center and Student Life & Development for the successful event.

Additional supporters include the Campus Center Board and CCBAC advisors Joshua Ramos, Ashley Nguyen and Sarah Yap. The event was sponsored by Coca-Cola Hawaiʻi and Raising Cane鈥檚.

“I鈥檓 so grateful to everyone who helped put this together because it was such a team effort,” said Lopez. “This wouldn鈥檛 have been possible without them, and I hope we can have more events like these and invite more artists like MAX in the future.”

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo (DSA) was recognized as one of the “most promising places to work in student affairs“ for 2023 by the American College Personnel Association鈥擟ollege Student Educators International () and . 糖心视频 Hilo is among 27 schools recognized nationwide.

“It is an honor to receive this recognition from ACPA,” said 糖心视频 Hilo Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Chris Holland. “As we undergo a new divisional strategic plan, DSA is committed to staying focused on reimagining the student experience and being laser focused on student success.”

The award focuses on workplace diversity, staffing practices and work environment, and uses a web-based survey to examine family friendliness, salary and benefits and professional development opportunities. 糖心视频 Hilo previously received the award in 2019 and 2021.

“DSA recognizes that our staff are on the front lines of working with students in their developmental journey, and we must be as focused on staff development as well—from making great hires to onboarding to training and development,” said Holland. “I am very proud of the resilience of this team through the pandemic to continue to meet student needs while also staying motivated in our planning efforts. This recognition is reflective of their work, and it is my privilege to work alongside such great people committed to students and their success.”

For more, visit the .

Thanks to dozens of collaborators across the University of Hawaiʻi System, an online, zero-cost textbook for two popular anatomy and physiology courses—Physiology 141 and 142—will replace the textbook that was used by almost 4,700 students during the last academic year for an estimated total savings of more than $433,000. The various textbooks currently used for these courses range in cost from $160 to $210. The new textbook is anticipated to be ready for fall 2023.

Kapiʻolani Community College Assistant Professor Sheryl Shook and former 糖心视频 Associate Vice President of Student Affairs Hae Okimoto worked with 37 faculty, 11 of them co-authors, across all 10 糖心视频 campuses on the multi-year Online Educational Resource (OER) project.

Shook is the author of , which she uses to teach lecture and lab courses. She is a big fan of saving students money through OER.

“Students tell us they have to choose between buying food or a textbook. This creates an opportunity gap, not just an achievement gap, with an enormous impact on student success,” she said. “Look at the data about which students are least likely to afford the book. You鈥檒l see that high textbook cost is a form of institutional racism, so I am very thankful our administrators and faculty are supportive of OER.”

Shook praised all the faculty involved, especially the co-authors, who had to shift gears in April 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The team鈥檚 scheduled “book sprint” went all online into uncharted territory, which increased the time it took to write it.

“It was one of the most intense things I鈥檝e ever done,” she recalled. “It was really challenging, but the team I worked with—they care so much about the students.”

Indigenized, localized content

The team Indigenized and localized content to give Hawaiʻi students a sense of connection. Their efforts impressed the book production company they are working with. According to Shook, , a company that facilitates book creation, said it has never worked with anyone who wrote that much original content.

The team is in the process of collecting and curating all the images for the book and ancillary tools. The work is extensive, since the visuals span body systems, gross anatomy and microscopic images. Some key team members in this effort are:

• Amanda Alimboyoguen, who teaches anatomy and physiology at Kapiʻolani CC and is leading the ancillary (lecture slides, study guides, homework questions, etc.) development project for the textbook.
• Rachel Lindsey, who teaches anatomy and physiology at Kapiʻolani CC and is creating the course shells (starter structures) that will be integrated with the textbook.
• LynleyShimat Lys, who is a 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 PhD graduate, is leading the OER image curation effort and also creation of student tools such as interactive quizzes and drag-and-drop activities for each chapter.

Free in fall 2023

The goal is to have the textbook completed by May 2023, then to do professional development with dozens of instructors across the 糖心视频 System since the anatomy and physiology text is used in courses that are prerequisites for most programs in nursing, medicine, pharmacology, dental hygiene, radiology technician, physical therapist, physical therapy assistant and respiratory therapist, as well as some biological sciences.

Shook said, “The hope is to have this be a best practice so we can share it with people all over the world.”

She also recommends the as a resource to find campus OER leads, information about OER 101 (an asynchronous online course) and more.

Anatomy and physiology OER textbook coauthors

Luria Namba, Hawaiʻi CC–笔腻濒补尘补苍耻颈
Lissandra Baldan Jenkins, Hawaiʻi CC (Manono)
Gabriel Peckham, Honolulu CC
Amanda Lee, Kapiʻolani CC
Rachel Lindsey, Kapiʻolani CC
Sheryl Shook, Kapiʻolani CC
I-Chia Shih, Leeward CC
Trenton Niemi, 糖心视频 Maui College
Jason Higa, 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补
Rebecca Romine, 糖心视频 West Oʻahu
Joel Kaufmann, 糖心视频 Hilo

—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch

Two finalists have been identified to fill the University of Hawaiʻi associate vice president for student affairs (AVPSA) position that reports directly to the vice president for academic strategy and provides leadership in the design, implementation, evaluation, administration and management of policies, programs and initiatives related to student affairs and student success across the 糖心视频 System.

Students, faculty and staff from all 糖心视频 campuses are encouraged to attend the virtual presentations and Q&A sessions for these candidates as scheduled:

Saovra “Sy” Ear, August 9, 2022, at 8 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. HST (presentation Zoom link)

• Dean, basic and transitional studies, Seattle Central College, WA
• Interim vice president, student services, Highline College, WA
• Interim vice president, student services, Edmonds Community College, WA
• Dean, enrollment & entry services, Edmonds Community College, WA
• Director, career and advising, Green River College, WA

Farrah-Marie Gomes, August 10, 2022, at 2 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. HST (presentation Zoom link)

• Vice chancellor for student affairs, 糖心视频 Hilo
• Interim associate vice president for student affairs, 糖心视频 System
• Interim dean, College of Continuing Education and Community Service, 糖心视频 Hilo
• Director, North Hawaiʻi Education and Research Center, 糖心视频 Hilo
• Research associate, 糖心视频 Hilo

“As an important system-wide position, I hope that faculty, staff and students from all campuses will consider attending and providing feedback. I thank the search advisory committee for their work in interviewing our top candidates from an excellent pool of applicants,” said Vice President for Academic Strategy Debora Halbert.

Following the virtual campus visits and feedback from the AVPSA search committee, 糖心视频 community and governance groups, Halbert will be making a recommendation on this appointment to 糖心视频 President David Lassner.

Please mark your calendars and visit the 糖心视频 System Executive Search website for more information regarding this position and search, including the finalists鈥� biographies, CVs, virtual visit schedules and Zoom link, and upcoming feedback form.

An annual music event at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 was held in person for the first time since 2019. Hosted by the (CCBAC), the 2022 Aloha Bash on April 29 at the Campus Center Courtyard featured hit Hawaiʻi reggae band The Green.

“Live entertainment is always better in person and we have definitely missed engaging with students after these past two years,” said CCBAC Chairperson Ashley Nguyen. “It felt exciting to have put on this concert for the students, especially since the students were eager to see performers on stage again. There were many challenges/uncertainty in the beginning with coordinating this event due to COVID-19, but we are proud of our team for pulling together this successful event!”

Tickets went on sale April 21 and sold out in five days. The Green was formed in 2009 and were among the first reggae bands from Hawaiʻi to extensively tour the continental U.S. and perform in Japan and New Zealand. The band supported many American reggae bands including Rebelution, Iration, SOJA and Damian Marley. Grammy-winning pop superstar Bruno Mars selected The Green to open his three sold-out shows at Neal S. Blaisdell Arena in 2014, and his two sold-out dates at Aloha Stadium in 2018.

With much of the live music industry scaled back in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, many musicians enjoyed an extended hiatus at home with family and friends and additional time to focus on their music. The Green sum up their period of self-reflection on their sixth studio album, Brand New Eyes, which is out now.

Nguyen would like to give a special shoutout to Campus Center and Student Life and Development departments for making the concert possible, which included 惭腻苍辞补 Dining Services; Ticket, Information and ID Office; Meeting and Event Services; Campus Center Facilities; and 惭腻苍辞补 Now at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Student Media.

“I felt relieved and ecstatic that students were excited for our event,” Nguyen said. “Our goal as the main programming arm for 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 is to plan events that students look forward to and I believe my team reached our goal with this event!”

—By Marc Arakaki

After two years of renovations and upgrades, a newly revitalized Campus Center (CC) Ballroom at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 has reopened to the campus community. Staff, faculty and students got their first look at the modernized facility in February through small group tours hosted by .

The updated 6,240-square foot ballroom has a brighter look and feel, and features new flooring, paint, lighting, fixtures and AV equipment. A popular venue for many 糖心视频 campus and community events, the space can be configured to accommodate various setups for small and large events, from 150 up to 500 guests, including lecture presentations, banquets, conferences and more. Members of the 糖心视频 community can create an account at to make online room requests for the ballroom, CC and Hemenway Hall meeting rooms and courtyards.

Latest phase of CC Complex renovation project

The ballroom renovations were part of the latest $10.1 million phase of the CC Complex Renovation and Expansion Project that also included repairs to the CC third floor gallery, repairing and repainting the CC courtyard stairs, rebuilding the CC west stairs leading to Hemenway Hall, and modernizing freight and passenger elevators.

According to CC Board President Daezon Arruda, students were involved with providing direction to the project scope either through the leadership of the CC Board or through feedback received from students regarding the student union. Student employees were also involved in certain parts of the project, such as unboxing and installing 530 new ballroom chairs.

“I feel honored to see this phase of the project completed. Previous Campus Center Board members envisioned this project, and it is empowering to see the renovations that have been made,” Arruda said. “Campus Center is the pulse of the CC Complex where students come to use the facilities to study, relax and interact with the campus community. By prioritizing students within the space, we provide a community that encourages student leadership development, which is an important skill to have in one鈥檚 future career.”

Arruda added, “We also hope that students are impressed with the improvements that have been made so far with their student fees and will continue to use the spaces for their academic and extracurricular needs.”

The next phase of the CC Complex Renovation and Expansion Project will focus on Hemenway Hall—the original student union built more than 80 years ago. According to Arruda, it is in need of approximately $15 million dollars in renovations. A $5 million project will soon begin to upgrade infrastructure, including plumbing, restrooms and other general repairs.

惭腻苍辞补 Dining Services update

During the February CC Ballroom tour, introduced its newest items, including to-go bentos, catering platters and a produce market package, which have been selling during the COVID-19 pandemic. 惭腻苍辞补 Dining Services has come up with safe, low-touch options to comply with ongoing changes due to the pandemic, such as individually-wrapped utensils and boxed meals.

“We offer the same quality and service but have also needed to adapt and provide these COVID-friendly options for our clients and their events,” said John Lopiantetzky, 惭腻苍辞补 Dining Services retail operations director and catering manager.

This effort is an example of 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 goal of (PDF), one of four goals identified in the (PDF), updated in December 2020.

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 conducts Safe Zone training every month for members of the campus community. The training seeks to enrich the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补.

Participants have the opportunity to engage in dialogue on building inclusive classrooms, equity in the workplace and non-discrimination on campus.

Jungha Kim is a third year psychology major at 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 who is all-too familiar with what it is like to be mis-gendered on a daily basis. “People think it doesn鈥檛 hurt anyone by misgendering them, but it really does. It shows disrespect and makes me feel less than human,” said Kim.

Kim identifies as a gender non-conforming student and uses 鈥渢hey鈥� pronouns to refer to themselves. They are grateful for opportunities like the Safe Zone Training on LGBTQ+ Equity and Inclusion because they help members of the 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 community build respect for gender inclusion in the classroom and on campus.

“I feel like I am part of a first-rate learning environment when I am respected for who I am, and faculty take the time to use my preferred name and pronouns,” said Kim.

Respecting individuals鈥� pronouns and using preferred names is just part of the learning curriculum in the training. Participants share their best practices on how they actively engage their students and co-workers in inclusive campus environments.

“The Safe Zone training is an essential aspect of our university鈥檚 commitment to ongoing professional development and tenets of non-discrimination,” said 糖心视频 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno.

All participants in the training will have the opportunity to receive a Safe Zone sign and materials that indicate they are an ally or advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and equity on campus.

Safe Zone trainings will be offered on the following dates of this academic year and pre-registration is required.

• Thursday, September 26
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  Campus Center (CC) Executive Dining Room
• Friday, October 25
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  CC 308
• Thursday, November 14
  2–3:30 p.m.
  CC 308
• Friday, December 13
  2–3:30 p.m.
  CC 307
• Wednesday, February 5
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  CC Executive Dining Room
• Friday, March 27
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  CC Executive Dining Room
• Thursday, April 16
  2-3:30 p.m.
  CC Executive Dining Room
• Friday, May 8
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  CC Executive Dining Room
• Monday, June 8
  10:30 a.m. to noon
  CC Executive Dining Room
• Tuesday, July 7
  2–3:30 p.m.
  CC Executive Dining Room

To register for a Safe Zone training, sign up at the .