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instructor Ian Kekaimalu Isami Lee has sailed far and wide aboard the vessel Hōkūleʻa. Now, the and alumnus uses the experiences gained on open waters in his class on the basic principles and theories of modern non-instrument navigation, the same navigation used on the Hōkūleʻa.

“It brings a lot of context for my students because when we talk about things or when I try to explain things to them,” Lee said. “I tell them stories of things that I have personally experienced. That brings it to life for them, and it makes it easier for them to understand the concepts.”

After graduating from Leeward CC with an associate鈥檚 degree in liberal arts in 2011, Lee enrolled at 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa. In 2014 Lee sailed from Samoa to Aotearoa and in 2017 from Tahiti to Hawaiʻi aboard Hōkūleʻa.

His master鈥檚 thesis revolved around voyaging and canoe culture. The journeys were instrumental in his growth as a person and navigator, allowing him to share experiences with his ancestors who crossed the sea thousands of years prior. Lee earned bachelor鈥檚 (2014) and master驶s (2017) degrees in Hawaiian studies.

Community on campus

It was not always smooth sailing. After spending his first semester skipping classes, Lee says he found community at Leeward CC. This inspired him to engage more in his studies and take advantage of free tutoring and other support.

“I just found myself having a blast and learning along the way,” said Lee. “It was the community that I surrounded myself with. We had the program Hālau ʻIke O Puʻuloa, which is now known as Kīpuka, Native Hawaiian Student Services. There were so many people who created a very comfortable environment. That made me not want to leave.”

Lee remembers being greeted with a smile and treated with aloha on campus, which felt like a home away from home. Now, he tries to encourage his students to build community.

“My students do their course in groups, they do everything as a group,” Lee said. “I try to shift their thinking to a broader, global thinking that all of our actions are interconnected and affect each other. If we all thought that way, I think this world would be a much better place.”

Watching his grandson Marco shag balls at the Clarence T.C. Ching Complex football field, Mark Robison looks beyond the game to envision a future. During a recent walk around the M膩noa campus he asked Marco where he might want to go to college. The sixth grader quickly replied, “probably 糖心Vlog官方.”

That simple answer reframed something for Robison. Inspired by Marco—and by granddaughter Bianca, a dedicated ʻIolani volleyball player—he began supporting 糖心Vlog官方 women鈥檚 volleyball and athletics more broadly.

“This is my way of showing up for Bianca and acknowledging the sport that she is so dedicated to,” he said.

Even as he looks toward the future, Robison鈥檚 heart remains tethered to a gritty, golden era of 糖心Vlog官方 football that began with an unexpected phone call decades ago.

From West Point to Waiʻanae

Growing up in a low-income household in Washington state, Robison had his life mapped out for him by his father: attend West Point, serve four years and land a job on Wall Street.

糖心Vlog官方 defensive coordinator Larry Price had a different plan.

To this day, Robison has “no idea how he found him,” but Price鈥檚 recruitment pitch worked. Robison turned down West Point to play for the then 糖心Vlog官方 鈥楤ows, a decision that upset his father so much he refused to speak to him for a year.

“He was one of those working-class guys who always wanted better for his kids,” Robison said. “He was firm and stubborn in what he thought was best for me.”

Robison arrived in the islands as an outsider in 1973, but he didn’t stay one for long—especially since his mother was born on a plantation in Lahaina. The weekend before classes even began, some local teammates invited him to a three-day wedding party in Waiʻanae. Robison recalls the reception vividly, specifically the “aunties” who didn’t hold back.

“You鈥檙e a football player?” Robison recalled. “You must be the punter because you look like one skinny kid.”

Hard Lessons, Lasting Loyalty

Robison credits much of his later success to his time under coaches Larry Price and Rick Blangiardi. Practices were intense, and Blangiardi was known to deliver high-decibel commands on the line of scrimmage. While the practices were grueling, Robison remains grateful for that level of pressure.

“They taught me about loyalty, commitment, hard work, perseverance and discipline,” he said.

Today, Robison is a “true believer” that 糖心Vlog官方 football can compete at the top level. However, he acknowledges the landscape has shifted from the olden days. He points to the challenges of the Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) era, noting that it takes strategy to keep key players—such as a quarterback or wide receiver—from transferring to schools raising millions in NIL funds. To support 糖心Vlog官方‘s NIL program, Robison recently contributed $270K.

“It鈥檚 an honor to be a 鈥楤ow,” Robison said, “and my continued support is give from the heart.”

Read more at the .

—By Simplicio Paragas

Before launching her local clothing and accessory brand, , Hilo native Tania Takashiba made the decision to continue her education at the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa. She spent several years studying on the U.S. continent before attending the Shidler College of Business, where she earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in marketing in 2002.

A member of the business fraternity Pi Sigma Epsilon, Takshiba said her time at Shidler played a pivotal role in shaping her professional network and lasting friendships.

“I think graduating from ”糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa was the perfect transition into adulthood,” said Takashiba. “[I] did internships, I was able to get a job pretty easily, and I couldn鈥檛 be more thankful for the people I met.”

Those connections continue to play a role in her life today. Takashiba stays in touch with several friends from her Shidler years, including one who serves as her financial advisor.

Building a local business

Takashiba started MaruMaru Hawaii with her sister in 2015. She said it was hard to find local brands that offered clothes for kids, so they decided to create their own. The brand has taken off, and Takashiba has run into people at the airport and on vacation wearing her clothes.

“Our designs are super simple, but I think because they鈥檙e based on real things, it resonates with a lot of people,” said Takashiba.

Popular designs such as “Hilo Das Why” and “Hilo Love” reflect the brand鈥檚 commitment to represent Hilo and its people.

Rooted in Hilo

Despite the brand鈥檚 popularity, Takashiba has intentionally chosen to keep MaruMaru Hawaii rooted on the Big Island. She said she does not plan to expand through pop-ups on Oʻahu or other islands, even when opportunities arise.

“I think there鈥檚 something to be said about being able to give Hilo people something first,” said Takashiba. “There鈥檚 nothing like Hilo; it鈥檚 very special. The community here is amazing, you鈥檙e connected to everybody, and it鈥檚 just Hilo das why.”

For nearly 20 years, Rachel Hualani Loo has graced the Merrie Monarch stage on 贬艒ʻ颈办别 night as an ʻ艒濒补辫补, or dancer, with H膩lau o Kekuhi. This year, she returned to the Edith Kanakaʻole Stadium in a profoundly different role: as the 2026 惭艒ʻ墨 Wahine (Queen) of the Merrie Monarch Royal Court.

A University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo alumna and the director of the , Loo has spent over a decade supporting Hawaiian students on their educational journeys. But when the Merrie Monarch Festival committee asked her to serve in this role, the weight of carrying this kuleana (responsibility) for her community felt different.

“Just to be included in all of this鈥攏ot just the honor on an individual and personal level, but the real honor is continuing to be part of this community in a different capacity,” Loo expressed.

One of the most special things about being in Hilo during Merrie Monarch week is the opportunity to witness the community鈥檚 hospitality and ability to hoʻokipa, to host. Whether welcoming family, friends, or h膩lau hula, 贬颈濒辞鈥檚 community shows up year after year to graciously welcome everyone. Growing up in Hilo and being part of the Merrie Monarch in different capacities has shaped Loo鈥檚 own commitment to this practice.

What the Merrie Monarch Festival and its stage represent isn鈥檛 lost on her. Loo recalled the words of her Kumu Hula N膩lani Kanakaʻole Zane, whose legacy continues to permeate the festival: “She would remind us that this is the biggest stage for hula: an opportunity to share our language, culture, and dance in excellence. It鈥檚 an example of Hawaiian excellence at its highest level.”

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A Leeward Community College alumna who goes by Sasha is reconnecting with her roots through art, and shared a personal body of work at Cafe in April.

Sasha, who earned an associate in arts in liberal arts with a focus on art and art history in 2017, said her time at Leeward CC helped shape both her creative direction and career. From hands-on class projects to a study abroad trip in France, she was exposed to different perspectives that continue to influence her work today.

“Through attending Leeward, doing many different projects in art classes, going on a study abroad trip to France with my classmates, I had so many opportunities to see and feel culture and art,” Sasha said. “Everything I learned has turned into my skill and profession.”

After graduating, Sasha went straight into the workforce and now balances several roles, including work as a TV personality and collaborations with travel media focused on Japan. She also promotes Hawaiʻi-based small businesses and continues to build her presence as an artist. Her Instagram account , which has nearly 38,000 followers, shares a mix of her artwork, travel experiences and everyday life in Hawaiʻi, connecting with a local audience as well as those interested in island culture.

惭腻濒补尘补 ʻ腻颈苍补

Her art exhibit, centered on the theme m膩lama ʻ腻颈苍补 (caring for the land), drew from her upbringing and her growing understanding of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 history and values.

“This really reflects the perspective and environment I grew up in,” she said. “The process of myself growing up and learning the history of Hawaiʻi鈥� came from my childhood and attending Leeward.”

Sasha also credited her professors and early opportunities at Leeward CC—such as painting murals in the campus theater—with giving her the foundation to take on larger creative projects.

“I hope my art can inspire people in many different ways of thinking about how important m膩lama ʻ腻颈苍补 is,” she said, “and your education can definitely benefit you in the future.”

Now in its sixth decade, the Merrie Monarch Festival draws visitors from across the state and beyond, celebrating Hawaiian culture through hula, music, and artistry. The influx of visitors also supports independent marketplaces throughout Hilo, where local businesses can showcase their work.

Two University of Hawaiʻi alumni—Summer Shiigi of Ten Tomorrow and Lana Gronwald of Jules and Gem Hawaii—are vendors at the Mākeke Naniloa marketplace at the Grand Naniloa Hotel, returning to Hawaiʻi Island after participating together last year.

Shiigi, a former 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa psychology student, runs and designs the resort women鈥檚 clothing brand Ten Tomorrow.

“My family is from Hilo, so being able to go and visit for work is really special to me,” said Shiigi. “It鈥檚 an exciting time. It feels very meaningful and deep and cultural.”

Gronwald, the owner and founder of Jules and Gem Hawaii, a luxury fragrance brand, graduated from 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

“Merrie Monarch is a special time. It鈥檚 beautiful to see all the different artists that come out and all those small businesses that are truly local who come from here and have roots in Hawaiʻi,” said Gronwald.

Supporting local businesses

Both businesses make their products in Hawaiʻi. With customers and businesses converging in Hilo, both women are appreciative of the opportunities it presents.

“The dollars being spent all with local companies is something really beautiful,” said Shiigi. “Being able to have that hard earned dollar spent in a local community and turning it back into someone who鈥檚 based here, who has local employees, who might even make things here, I think that鈥檚 really important.”

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 鈥� (TIM School) hosted its 24th annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala on March 31 at the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach. As the largest fundraiser in support of TIM School student scholarships, the event raised more than $361,000 through the generous support of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 hospitality and business community.

This year鈥檚 celebration was especially meaningful as the TIM School celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026, honoring six decades of preparing leaders who shape Hawaiʻi鈥檚 visitor industry and the global travel economy.

“As we celebrate 60 years of the TIM School, this event reflects the strong partnership between our students and the industry they will soon lead,” said Vance Roley, dean of the Shidler College of Business and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. “The continued support from our community ensures that future graduates are equipped to advance a visitor industry that is innovative, responsible and grounded in Hawaiʻi鈥檚 culture and values.”

Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism recognizes individuals and organizations that have made outstanding and lasting contributions to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 visitor industry.

At the March 31 gala, the 2026 Legacy in Tourism Award was presented to Elliot Mills (BBA 鈥�93), CEO and managing partner of Hawaiʻi Hospitality Group. Mills was honored for his leadership and long-standing commitment to operational excellence, workforce development and strengthening Hawaiʻi鈥檚 hospitality sector.

Kylie Matsuda-Lum (BS 鈥�01), managing director of Kahuku Farms, was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor. A proud TIM alumna, Matsuda-Lum has helped transform her family鈥檚 agricultural enterprise into a successful agritourism destination that connects visitors with local agriculture, sustainability and community.

The Distinguished Service Award was presented to ClimbHI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore career pathways and successfully transition from high school into post-secondary education and the workforce. Through industry partnerships and career readiness programs, ClimbHI plays a vital role in strengthening Hawaiʻi鈥檚 future workforce.

The 2026 presenting sponsors were Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Bank of Hawaii. Central Pacific Bank, First Hawaiian Bank, Kamehameha Schools and Marriott International served as contributing sponsors, and Daniel K. Hilton was a platinum sponsor. Hawaiʻi Business Magazine again returned as the media partner.

Support from sponsors, donors and community partners helps provide critical scholarship funding for students preparing for careers in hospitality, tourism and transportation. Since reunification with Shidler College in 2019, the school has:

• Introduced more than $1.5 million in new student scholarships
• Nearly doubled the size of the faculty
• Created six new faculty endowed fellowships and professorships
• Rising global and national rankings
• Increased undergraduate enrollment by 4.5% from 2024 to 2025
• Awarded more than $560,000 in scholarships during the 2025–26 academic year
• Enabled more than 90% of graduates to find employment or pursue graduate study within three months of graduation
• Established the TIM PhD program

To support the TIM School or Shidler College of Business, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development, at jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org. .

Larry Price, a celebrated University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa scholar-athlete, coach and longtime supporter of the university, is remembered for a life that bridged athletics, education and service to the community. Price died March 27, at the age of 91.

Price distinguished himself as a leader on the football field at 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa, becoming the only player in program history to be elected team captain three consecutive years from 1962 to 1964. He later earned recognition as one of the greatest players in school history, including selection to the program’s all-time team and designation as “Rainbow of the Decade” for the 1960s. He also played in three Hula Bowl games and signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Rams.

Price’s impact at 糖心Vlog官方 extended well beyond his playing days. After earning his bachelor’s degree in recreation leadership in 1967 and a master’s degree in educational administration in 1971 from the 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa College of Education, he returned to campus to mentor the next generation. He served as head men’s volleyball coach from 1969 to 1972, resident manager of the athletic dormitory and later head football coach from 1974 to 1976. During his tenure as head coach, 糖心Vlog官方 became an NCAA Division I member, changed its nickname to the Rainbow Warriors, introduced the “Hula-T” formation, and on September 13, 1975, christened the newly-built 50,000-seat Aloha Stadium against Texas A&I.

“I’ve considered all of the people I went to school with my friends forever,” Price said in a . “The faculty took particularly good care of me,” he added, specifically pointing to his “favorite faculty member,” Harold St. John, from whom he took a botany course.

In the classroom and across campus, Price was equally dedicated. He went on to earn a doctorate in education from the University of Southern California and completed postdoctoral work at Stanford University, while also serving as an assistant professor at Chaminade University of Honolulu. At 糖心Vlog官方, he later led the Small Business Management Program, continuing his commitment to education and professional development.

His legacy includes a lasting connection to the broader Hawaiʻi community. Price built a distinguished career in media, joining KSSK Radio and becoming a familiar voice to generations of listeners. As a television journalist with KITV4, he earned national recognition for his documentary work. Price was also known for his sports commentary and his signature “katoosh!” call.

Throughout his life, Price remained closely tied to 糖心Vlog官方. He was a , and 1989 糖心Vlog官方 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree. Price was also a life member of the 糖心Vlog官方 Alumni Association with the 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa Letterwinners Club and College of Education Alumni Association.

—By Marc Arakaki

The University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents approved awarding an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to Walter A. Dods Jr., recognizing his decades of leadership in Hawaiʻi鈥檚 business community, his extensive philanthropic impact and his longstanding commitment to the university.

The regents voted at the board鈥檚 March 19 monthly meeting, held at Leeward Community College. The honorary degree will be formally conferred during the 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa鈥檚 spring 2026 commencement ceremony, where Dods will also serve as commencement speaker.

“I am deeply honored and grateful to the University of Hawaiʻi and the regents for this recognition,” said Dods after the vote. “糖心Vlog官方 has played an important role in my life, and it has been a privilege to support the university and its students over the years. I share this honor with the many people who have inspired me and worked alongside me to strengthen our community.”

Alumnus, business leader, philanthropist

A 1967 graduate of 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa鈥檚 Shidler College of Business, Dods is widely regarded as one of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 most influential business leaders. Over a 36-year career at First Hawaiian Bank, he rose from an entry-level role to chairman and CEO.

“Walter Dods represents the very best of what the University of Hawaiʻi hopes to inspire in its graduates: leadership, service and an unwavering commitment to community,” said 糖心Vlog官方 President Wendy Hensel. “His impact on Hawaiʻi鈥檚 economic development is profound, but equally important is his lifelong dedication to giving back and creating opportunities for others. He has opened doors for generations of students and strengthened this university in lasting ways.”

Deep 糖心Vlog官方 support

His ties to 糖心Vlog官方 span nearly five decades. Dods has been a donor since 1975 and previously served as president of the 糖心Vlog官方 Foundation Board of Trustees. He chaired the university鈥檚 1998 Campaign for Hawaiʻi, which raised $116 million, and currently serves as campaign chair for the ongoing $1-billion “For 糖心Vlog官方, For Hawaiʻi” fundraising effort.

His personal philanthropy includes a $5-million gift to support student innovation and entrepreneurship at 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa, resulting in the naming of the Walter Dods Jr. RISE Center, as well as a $1-million endowed scholarship supporting immigrant students and their children.

Dods has previously been recognized with the 糖心Vlog官方 Distinguished Alumni Award and the Shidler College of Business Hall of Honor Award.

The honorary doctorate recognizes individuals of national or international distinction whose contributions have had a significant impact in areas such as business, public service or scholarship. Regents cited Dods鈥� extraordinary career and enduring commitment to the university and the state as meeting and exceeding those standards.

When Lyra Pascual—a 2017 graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa and senior accountant at Nakupuna Companies—volunteered at the Ironman World Championship in 2024, an idea took root. Watching athletes cross the finish line, she wondered if she could do the same. There was a small problem—she didn鈥檛 know how to swim.

“Maybe some day,” she told herself.

Fast forward to a few months later when Pascual was talking with a friend and telling him that she wanted to learn to swim. He mentioned they should sign up for the Ironman together and she said, “if you do, I will.” And with that encouragement, they both signed up for their first race.

Pascual enlisted the help of Shidler college鈥檚 Director of Internship and Career Development Rick Varley and joined his TripleFit triathlon group. Varley has been an endurance coach for more than 25 years, his experience shaped by his own background as a collegiate sprinter. He was the first person to encourage her to get in the water.

“We didn鈥檛 work on strokes at first,” Varley said. “We just worked on breathing.”

Read about how Pascual overcame multiple challenges to cross her first finish line on pages 24–25 of the .

The University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa Shidler College of Business Alumni Association, a 501(c)(3) organization, hosted its 26th Annual Executive Vineyards fundraiser on March 5, 2026, at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort. The signature event raised more than $70,000 in support of the association鈥檚 mission to strengthen alumni engagement, advance student programming, provide scholarships and elevate the Shidler College of Business locally and globally.

This year鈥檚 gathering was especially meaningful, as it marked Dean Vance Roley鈥檚 final Executive Vineyards event in his role as dean, concluding more than two decades of leadership at the helm of the college.

Executive Vineyards remains the association鈥檚 premier fundraising event, bringing together alumni, Hawaiʻi businesses, faculty, students and friends of the college for an evening of philanthropy and connection.

“As I reflect on more than two decades of service as dean, what resonates most deeply is the extraordinary commitment of our alumni and business community,” said Vance Roley, dean of the Shidler College of Business and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. “Executive Vineyards embodies the spirit of generosity and shared purpose. Year after year, the community鈥檚 support strengthens Shidler鈥檚 impact across Hawaiʻi and around the world.”

The gathering attracted approximately 600 guests, who enjoyed an array of hors d鈥檕euvres from local restaurants, sampled a curated selection of wines and spirits, and networked against the backdrop of Diamond Head and Waik墨k墨 Beach. Local newscaster Kelly Simek emceed the event. Guests also participated in a popular lucky draw and placed bids through an extensive online auction.

“We are proud to carry forward a tradition that not only raises critical support for students, but also strengthens the bonds within our Shidler ʻohana,” said Director of Strategic Growth, Maui Economic Development Board and event co-chair Yosef Onodera.

“Executive Vineyards continues to bring together generations of Shidler alumni and supporters who are united to invest in the college鈥檚 future,” added Adina Wakayama, accounting manager, Par Hawaii Inc. and event co-chair.

Spirits and wine were generously donated by Southern Glazer鈥檚 Wine and Spirits of Hawaii and Beverage Marketing & More. This year鈥檚 diamond sponsor was Par Hawaii; Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and The Shidler Group served as platinum sponsors; Pacific Business News returned as media sponsor.

The University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa celebrated the legacy of renowned alumna Alice Augusta Ball at the annual recognition ceremony on February 26. This year鈥檚 event was especially meaningful, as her discovery dubbed the “Ball Method” treatment for Hansen鈥檚 disease has been designated a National Historic Chemical Landmark by the American Chemical Society (ACS).

Spearheaded by the 糖心Vlog官方 Office of the President and the 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa Office of the Provost with support from various campus and community partners, the ceremony invited the campus community to the chaulmoogra tree on the ma uka side of Bachman Hall, where a plaque honors Ball鈥檚 legacy.

The event began with an oli led by the Hawaiʻi Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office and the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience鈥檚 Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Coordinator.

Emcee LaJoya Shelly, a lecturer in ethnic studies and educational administration, led the event. 糖心Vlog官方 President Wendy Hensel was among several distinguished speakers who commemorated Ball.

“She鈥檚 a true role model for all of us,” said Hensel, “Every year is exciting because she鈥檚 such an incredible trailblazer, and to be able to recognize her repeatedly for those contributions is always really special.”

Hensel also read Gov. Josh Green鈥檚 official proclamation declaring February 28, 2026, as Alice Augusta Ball Day.

Long-awaited official recognition

Katrina-Ann Kap膩 Oliveira, Interim Vice Provost for Student Success, presented the National Historic Chemical Landmark Designation on behalf of ACS President Rigoberto Hernandez.

“This landmark dedication reflects ACS‘s commitment to honoring chemists like Ball whose discoveries have improved countless lives,” read Oliveira. “The National Historic Chemical Landmarks program preserves and promotes these histories so that present and future generations can understand the transformative power of chemistry.”

In 2024, the American Chemical Society approved the nomination—submitted by David Lassner, 糖心Vlog官方 president emeritus, and Paul Wermager, retired department head of science and technology at Hamilton Library—to award the National Historic Chemical Landmark designation to Ball for her technique of isolating ethyl esterification from the fatty acids of chaulmoogra oil so it could be effectively administered to Hansen鈥檚 disease patients by injection.

• Related 糖心Vlog官方 News story: Sculpture honors pioneering scientist Alice Ball

This isolation technique, later called the “Ball Method,” was the first successful treatment for Hansen鈥檚 disease that was used on thousands of patients around the world until the introduction of sulfone drugs in the mid-1940s.

The Ball Method was used to treat patients in Kalaupapa, permitting them to return to their families after being banished to isolation facilities on the remote Molokaʻi peninsula. This treatment was the difference between a life of discomfort and isolation, and a life of fulfillment and connection with family and community.

Inspiring future generations of scientists

Ball was the first woman and first African-American to graduate from the College of Hawaiʻi—now known as the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa—with a master鈥檚 degree in chemistry. Ball had also become the first African American female chemistry instructor and department head.

“What inspires me really, especially during Black History Month, is her being a black woman in STEM,” said Raven Kelley, the student speaker for the Black Student Association, “When we look at U.S. history, women in STEM, in general, rarely ever get the recognition that they truly deserve.”

Ball died on December 31, 1916, at the age of 24, before publishing her groundbreaking work. More than a century later, the university remains committed to honoring her legacy.

“As a black woman in STEM myself, it gives me a sense of pride and honor to see her truly recognized for her work,” said Kelley.

Other program speakers included Phillip Williams, interim dean and professor of chemistry at the 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa College of Natural Sciences; Diana Felton, chief of the Communicable Disease and Public Health Nursing Division at the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health; and DeGray Vanderbilt of Ka ʻOhana O Kalaupapa.

The ceremony was followed by the annual Alice Augusta Ball Remembrance Walk, led by Sister Circle at M膩noa and Native Hawaiian Student Services, which included a trip to Hamilton Library to see the life-sized bronze bust of Alice Ball. The walk ended at the Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Services for a screening of The Ball Method film.

鈥攂y Josslyn Rose

While they were freshmen in the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa 鈥� Direct Admit Program, alumnae Amber Abara (BBA 鈥�22, MS 鈥�24) and Morgan “Birdy” Cobb (BBA 鈥�22, MS 鈥�24) crossed paths and quickly became best friends. What they didn鈥檛 know then was that their friendship would later spark a business—one inspired by a vivid dream Abara had during their master of science in marketing management program.

In the dream, she saw a soap bar shaped like a gua sha (smooth tool used to massage and stimulate the skin). When she shared it with Cobb, expecting a laugh, Cobb immediately responded, “Let鈥檚 do it.” That moment became the spark for a skincare company built around a farm-to-face philosophy.

Abara and Cobb source many of their ingredients from Hawaiʻi farmers they know and trust, rooting their brand in community and sustainability. They also embrace the phrase “confidence from within,” which for them means feeling grounded in who you are the moment you wake up.

Their idea was deeply personal. Both struggled with acne for years and grew exhausted by the constant stream of advice, products and online trends promising perfect skin. They wanted something simpler—clean ingredients they understood, such as coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric, coffee and honey.

“The media details every trick, product and solution for your skin,” Cobb said. “What you eat, what pillowcases you sleep on, what oils, cleansers and tools you need to fix everything. I grew exhausted trying to sort through the advice of every influencer and article on the internet. I needed a product that made my life a little simpler, with ingredients I understood.”

Using sustainable, organic and local ingredients was equally important. Abara, raised in Kāneʻohe, grew up surrounded by lush landscapes and a strong culture of eating local, while Cobb—who moved from Colorado to Oʻahu at 17—quickly embraced Hawaiʻi鈥檚 deep connection between land and community. Those values, particularly transparency and environmental care, now guide their brand called .

They took their idea further when a professor encouraged them to enter a (PACE) competition. Preparing for it pushed them to refine their branding, target market and overall vision. Although they didn鈥檛 advance, the experience confirmed that their dream had real potential. Later, they applied for and won a Kalo grant through PACE, giving them the seed funding needed to launch.

“I realized that my dream of a gua sha-shaped soap bar could actually become a real business when we won the Kalo grant,” Abara said.

With their entrepreneurial spark ignited鈥攁nd support from Shidler鈥檚 programs—Abara and Cobb created the product they once needed.

For the entire story and more alumni stories, see the .

Visionary architect Francis S. Oda, a University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa distinguished alumnus who played a key role in shaping the 糖心Vlog官方 School of Architecture, died on February 14, 2026.

Oda was instrumental in developing the Doctor of Architecture program at 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa. His contributions included his service as an adjunct associate professor of the 糖心Vlog官方 School of Architecture and as a M膩noa Forum Fellow. He also helped with the 糖心Vlog官方 Long Range Development Program.

“Francis was such a monument in the field. A one-time architect for the University, he oversaw the development of many of the institution鈥檚 now seminal buildings. With G70, he extended Hawaiʻi鈥檚 influence worldwide,” said Professor Bill Chapman, former dean of the School of Architecture. “He was a true gentleman, who embraced his responsibilities to the wider community.”

Oda was a co-founder of Hawaiʻi design firm G70, where he guided the company for more than 50 years. His work and mentoring of generations of professionals helped shape Hawaiʻi鈥檚 built environment, reflecting his deep respect for culture, community and place.

“Francis was more than one of our founders—he was a mentor, spiritual father and source of inspiration for everyone who had the privilege of working with him,” said Linda Miki, CEO of G70. “His legacy lives on in our G70 ʻOhana, our projects and our commitment to serving Hawaiʻi and beyond with integrity and care.”

A Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, Oda received numerous accolades, including the Gordon Bradley Humanitarian Award and induction into the Hawaii Business Hall of Fame. His award-winning projects include the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele, Hanauma Bay Nature Center, and master plans for the City of Kapolei.

Internationally, he designed projects such as Bora Bora Resort, French Polynesia, Roches Noires Smart City, Mauritius and Place Jacques Chirac, Papeete, French Polynesia, and Heaven鈥檚 Gate, Fernie, British Columbia, Canada. Oda was also a senior pastor and board chair of New Life Church Honolulu.

He is survived by wife Caroline and children, Reid and Nalani. A celebration of life service will be held on April 25, 2026, at the First Assembly of God – Red Hill, Moanalua. as it becomes available.

Christian de Quevedo, a University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa alumnus, founded Lēʻahi Landscaping after identifying a disconnect between the importance of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 built environments and the standards of the industry serving them. Landscapes shape some of the state鈥檚 most visible and valuable spaces, yet the work behind them is often noisy, emissions-heavy and unreliable.

In Hawaiʻi鈥檚 unique setting, Lēʻahi takes a site-specific approach to sustainability and land stewardship at residential and commercial sites. Using drone mapping and environmental modeling, the team evaluates sun exposure, wind, drainage and soil conditions before design begins. This leads to smarter decisions and fewer unnecessary inputs. As climate pressures and wildfire risks increase, resilience guides the work—prioritizing landscapes that are environmentally appropriate, safer over time and that deliver value to property owners.

“I couldn鈥檛 find a service that matched the standards expected in other professional sectors, so I set out to build one,” said de Quevedo, who graduated from the JD/MBA program in 2021.

A defining principle of de Quevedo鈥檚 entrepreneurial journey has been adaptation. He believes Hawaiʻi businesses can no longer rely on geographic isolation or outdated practices. He said local companies are now measured against national and global standards.

He credited his law degree from the with shaping his analytical approach and his MBA program with giving him the tools to act, scale and execute, and said that his Shidler experience reinforced systems thinking, disciplined operations and long-term value creation.

He also emphasized that none of Lēʻahi鈥檚 success would be possible without Kaimalu Stanich, his business partner, close friend and a graduate of 糖心Vlog官方 Mānoa鈥檚 , or without the Lēʻahi team. Since founding the company, he said all profits have been reinvested into growth, systems and employees, reflecting a belief that long-term success begins with investing in people.

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After more than two decades without a university band, the is ready to bring the music back. Leading that effort is new assistant professor of music Ocean Akaka, who arrives with a clear vision: rebuild the band program and help revitalize Hawaiian music through bold new arrangements and performances.

Akaka, who recently returned home to Hawaiʻi after teaching on the U.S. continent, arrived in Hilo on a one-way ticket late last year.

“I quickly got settled in, and flew to Oʻahu to spend the holidays with my family, something I haven鈥檛 done since 2020,” he said. “That was a great moment for sure.”

Building musical bridges

Akaka, who specializes in conducting wind ensembles and athletic bands, is now part of 糖心Vlog官方 贬颈濒辞鈥檚 . However he said his larger mission reaches beyond performance. His research revolves around the revitalization of Hawaiian music through arrangements for Western instrumental ensembles, such as orchestra and band.

Born and raised in Wahiaw膩, Akaka earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in from 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa. He later completed both his master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in conducting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. There, he led marching and pep bands, directed ensembles and taught conducting. His arrangements have been performed across the U.S. and Europe.

Now he brings that experience home.

“I鈥檓 writing a few arrangements of music from Charles E. King鈥檚 songbook,” he said. “Many of the songs written in this book are for one or more vocalists, and an accompanying ukulele, guitar or steel guitar. I鈥檓 working to arrange these songs for a wind ensemble, and have them performed by the students here at 糖心Vlog官方 Hilo.”

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—By Susan Enright

University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa alumnus Lee A. Tonouchi has been selected as the new Poet Laureate of Hawaiʻi by the Hawaiʻi State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities, and Hawaiʻi State Public Library System. Tonouchi will serve through February 2029.

Tonouchi is widely known as “Da Pidgin Guerrilla” for his passionate advocacy of Pidgin as a legitimate language for creative and academic expression. He earned his Bachelor鈥檚 and Master鈥檚 degrees in English at 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa and has taught classes at Kapiʻolani Community College.

“B-U. Das my vision. I stay looking forward to serving da community as Hawaiʻi‘s Poet Laureate. For da past chree decades it’s been my mission to show Local people that dey should be proud of their Pidgin,” said Tonouchi.

The American Association for Applied Linguistics awarded Tonouchi the 2023 Distinguished Public Service Award for his work in raising public awareness of important language-related issues and promoting linguistic social justice.

“Through da technique of talk story, I believe everybody can find their poetic voice,” said Tonouchi, “I see my role as being able for empower people, for give ’em da tools dey need for be writers demselves so dey can represent their own communities and life experiences. Da goal is for have one greater diversity of voices as part of Hawaiʻi鈥檚 Local literature. No sked for B-U.”

The Hawaiʻi Poet Laureate program promotes appreciation of poetry and literary life in Hawaiʻi while inspiring new writers from all walks of life. The selected poet receives an annual grant from the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to carry out readings and workshops across the islands.

糖心Vlog官方 the for more about upcoming Hawaiʻi Poet Laureate programming and events.

Two University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa College of Education graduates are making waves in the tech industry with careers shaped by the program鈥檚 Learning Design & Technology (LTEC) programs.

Stephanie Barry, who earned her master鈥檚 in LTEC and a graduate certificate in online learning and teaching, is now an artificial intelligence (AI) learning designer and education program manager at Meta. She previously spent eight years at Google designing learning experiences for teams in AI, research, and privacy education, reaching more than 200,000 employees.

Barry credits the LTEC program for teaching her strategic learning design, real-world problem solving and professional connections.

“Faculty treated students as emerging professionals,” Barry said. “I hope my story shows how a public university can prepare graduates for non-obvious, highly competitive careers, including roles in global technology companies.”

Additionally, Natalie Gauvin, a PhD graduate of LTEC, currently serves as a senior user experience researcher at Google and credits the program for playing a significant role in her current position.

“The Learning Design and Technology PhD program at the University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa taught me how to frame complex questions, design meaningful research and navigate ambiguity with both curiosity and rigor,” she said in a statement. “That foundation has been essential in my career as a UX Researcher in tech, guiding my work at companies like Google, TikTok, Meta and The Home Depot to create thoughtful, people-centered experiences that truly matter.”

Read more at the .

Human rights lawyer and University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa alumnus Julian Aguon is one of four changemakers around the world who have won the Swedish Right Livelihood Foundation鈥檚 annual award in 2025.

“I am deeply honored to accept this award on behalf of my entire team at Blue Ocean Law,” said Aguon. “I could not have done this work without each and every one of them, starting with my erudite co-lead, Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, and the incredible team we assembled to take on this case.”

‘Carrying the call for climate justice to the world鈥檚 highest court’

The Right Livelihood Foundation cited Aguon for “carrying the call for climate justice to the world鈥檚 highest court.” Aguon, together with the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, was selected by an international jury for their collective efforts to secure a unanimous advisory opinion on climate change from the International Court of Justice.

The opinion, delivered in July 2025, found that countries have binding obligations under international law to protect the climate system for present and future generations. In its historic decision, the Court recognized the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, declaring it essential to the realization of all other rights.

In Aguon鈥檚 case, the jury also recognized his longstanding advocacy on behalf of the Chamorro people of Guam, who continue to struggle under U.S. colonization.

“I proudly accept this award on behalf of my people, the Chamorro people, and indeed all of us in Micronesia, who continue to resist the militarization of our homelands, who continue to insist upon our right to live in the world on our own terms and our children鈥檚 right to do the same.”

Established in 1980 to “honour and support courageous people solving global problems,” the Right Livelihood Award has become widely known as the ‘Alternative Nobel Prize.’ Past winners from the U.S. include civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson, award-winning journalist Amy Goodman, and famed whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg. There are now 203 Laureates from more than 80 countries.

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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!”