A new University of Hawaiʻi Community College collaboration shone the spotlight on a group often working behind the scenes: student employees in the marketing offices across the campuses
Led by Leeward Community College student Terrina Martin, the project brought together marketing teams from multiple campuses to create a short social media reel highlighting student workers. Each campus contributed a unique 5–7 second clip that was combined into a single video shared before the end of the spring semester.
“Student employees are basically the voice of our audience,” Martin said. “We get what our peers are into, what actually grabs attention, and how to make college feel real and relatable. This project was about showing that energy and giving student workers their moment.”Understanding Gen Z
糖心Vlog官方 Community College marketing offices are behind much of what students and the public see—from social media to advertising campaigns—quietly shaping how each college is recognized and understood. Student employees are essential to these efforts, bringing fresh ideas and a strong understanding of Gen Z communication styles.
“It’s easy to overlook how much happens behind the scenes,” said Leeward CC Marketing Specialist Tad Saiki. “Our student employees are not just assisting—they’re contributing creatively and strategically in ways that directly impact how we connect with prospective students.”
The reel didn’t just boost campus pride; it built a network.
“Being part of this made me feel like our work matters beyond our campus,” said Juhainah “Juju” Simolata, a Hawaiʻi CC student. “It’s cool to see how we’re all connected.”
Marketing leaders hope this collaboration is just the beginning.
“By working together, we can amplify our message about the value of a 糖心Vlog官方 CC education,” said 糖心Vlog官方 Community Colleges Marketing Director Lesli Yogi. “And our students are leading the way.”
Students interested in working for their campus marketing office should reach out to their campus marketing coordinator.
—By Tad Saiki