The 10th annual Onizuka Day of Exploration (ODE) ignited curiosity and celebrated STEM for an estimated 4,500 attendees at the University of Hawaiʻi—West Oʻahu on April 11. The free, family-friendly event, honors the legacy of Hawaiʻi-born astronaut Ellison Onizuka. It featured more than 100 interactive activities, demonstrations and exhibits, and was presented by Scouting America, Aloha Council.
“The energy throughout the day was outstanding,” said ODE Co-Chair Will Hartzell. “The campus was filled with students, families, educators and community partners engaging in hands-on learning, discovery, and exploration. The event continues to reflect the spirit of Ellison Onizuka—bringing curiosity, innovation and opportunity together in a way that inspires the next generation.”
NASA astronaut, inflatable whale
Crowd favorites included a presentation by NASA astronaut Mike Fincke and the massive 45-foot inflatable whale exhibit. Participants explored the Bishop Museum Planetarium, used flight simulators, learned about AI in the Cyber Learning Pavilion, and watched the VEX IQ Robotics Scrimmage.
In the days leading up to the event, unstable weather conditions required organizers to quickly relocate more than 100 booths to covered areas for safety and accessibility.
This marked the fourth consecutive year ODE was held at 糖心Vlog官方 West Oʻahu. Hartzell acknowledged the support of university staff, including Vice Chancellor for Administration David McDonald, and Lynn Reyes and John Murakami from Auxiliary Services.
“Despite weather challenges, the collaboration between 糖心Vlog官方 West Oʻahu; Scouting America, Aloha Council; community organizations; and volunteers made it possible to deliver an inspiring and meaningful experience for thousands of attendees,” he said. “Onizuka Day not only honors Ellison Onizuka’s legacy, but also creates real moments of inspiration that shape future interests, education paths and careers.”
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—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman