tourism | University of Hawai驶i System News /news News from the University of Hawaii Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:10:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /news/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-糖心Vlog官方News512-1-32x32.jpg tourism | University of Hawai驶i System News /news 32 32 28449828 $361K+ raised to empower 糖心Vlog官方 惭ā苍辞补鈥檚 future travel, hospitality leaders /news/2026/04/01/celebrate-a-legacy-in-tourism-2026/ Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:10:25 +0000 /news/?p=231647 This year鈥檚 celebration was especially meaningful as the TIM School celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026.

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From left, Shidler Dean Vance Roley, Julie Morikawa, Elliot Mills, Kylie Matsuda-Lum and TIM School Director Daniel Spencer (Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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.

person speaking in front of a large room
Shidler College Dean Vance Roley speaking to event attendees (Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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.”

four people smiling
2026 Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala honorees and 糖心Vlog官方 President Wendy Hensel (Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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. .

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Bellman to boss: 碍补辫颈驶辞濒补苍颈 CC alumnus leads nation鈥檚 No. 1 eco-friendly hotel /news/2025/11/05/kapiolani-cc-tim-lee-hospitality/ Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:00:48 +0000 /news/?p=223833 From Waik墨k墨 beginnings to global acclaim, Tim Lee redefines world-class hospitality.

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

Exterior of the hotel by the sea
Post Ranch Inn

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

Two magazine covers

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

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

Starting from the bottom

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From left: Lee in the Halekulani July 1983 staff newsletter, Lee today

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

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

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

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

Iconic celebrities

Selection of autographs and letters

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

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

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

The wow factor

Exterior of the hotel in the evening
Grand Hotel Tremmezzo, Lake Como, Italy
Lee with falcon
The Post Ranch Inn offers falconry sessions for guests to learn about 鈥淏irds of Prey鈥

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

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

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

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

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

—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch

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Regenerative tourism in action inspires future leaders at Shidler College /news/2025/10/30/lane-lecture-on-sustainability/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 02:37:42 +0000 /news/?p=224713 The lecture explored how Hawaiʻi can lead the way in balancing economic vitality with environmental and cultural stewardship.

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people watching a lecture

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

five people smiling
From left, Professor Dan Spencer, Assistant Professor Xiaodan Mao-Clark, John Morgan, Taylor Ledgerwood and Professor Jerry Agrusa

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

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

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

This year鈥檚 discussion featured three distinguished panelists:

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

people standing and smiling

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

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

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

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Giving back with aloha: TIM alums connect locals, visitors through stewardship /news/2025/10/29/giving-back-with-aloha/ Wed, 29 Oct 2025 21:42:36 +0000 /news/?p=224573 Jared Matsuki founded Hele Mua, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of microplastics.

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people standing and smiling near a tent
TIM School alumni at a Hele Mua beach cleanup event.

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

person holding a sand sifter
Jared Matsuki started Hele Mua to raise awareness of microplastics while creating a regenerative experience.

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

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

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

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

A strong TIM School foundation

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

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

For the entire story and more stories like this, .

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碍补辫颈驶辞濒补苍颈 CC leads new Hawai驶i hospitality industry training /news/2025/10/09/kapiolani-hospitality-training/ Thu, 09 Oct 2025 22:53:39 +0000 /news/?p=223383 Pilot program blends Hawaiian culture, leadership and sustainability to advance hospitality careers.

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Kapiʻolani CC, Kahala Hotel & Resort, and HARIETT gather to commemorate the partnership agreement.

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

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

Standing group photo
Hawaiʻi Place-Based Hospitality Professional Development Training Program instructional team

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

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

Honoring people and place

Group watching document signing at a conference table
From left: Laura Burke, Joe Ibarra, Misaki Takabayashi, James Hardway, N膩wa驶a Napoleon

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

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

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

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Tourism at a crossroads: 糖心Vlog官方ERO study shows alignment, tension /news/2025/09/18/tourism-in-hawaii-uhero-blog/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:00:31 +0000 /news/?p=222346 Residents surveyed by the state continue to view tourism as an important economic driver, with nearly 80% agreeing it creates jobs and supports local businesses.

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buildings on a beach

The (糖心Vlog官方ERO) has released new findings that highlight both alignment and tension among Hawaiʻi residents, visitors and industry leaders over the future of tourism. While all groups recognize the need for reinvestment in infrastructure, stronger protections for cultural authenticity and solutions to housing and workforce shortages, they diverge sharply on how to achieve those goals.

Industry executives, interviewed earlier this year, described Hawaiʻi鈥檚 visitor sector as under strain, pointing to declining competitiveness, labor shortages linked to housing costs, outdated infrastructure and uncertainty over the concept of “regenerative tourism.” Many expressed concerns about losing ground to rival destinations and the challenges of planning without stable marketing support.

One lodging executive noted, “We were always patting ourselves on the back about how great everything was, when it really wasn鈥檛. We needed to be looking 10 years out and saying ‘this is what鈥檚 working’ and ‘this is what鈥檚 not working.’”

Residents surveyed by the state continue to view tourism as an important economic driver, with nearly 80% agreeing it creates jobs and supports local businesses. Yet fewer than 60% now say benefits outweigh problems, with high housing costs, cultural disrespect and environmental pressures topping the list of concerns.

糖心Vlog官方ors remain highly satisfied with Hawaiʻi鈥檚 natural beauty, safety and culture, but costs are increasingly cited as a deterrent. Among U.S. west visitors who said they would not return, 57% described Hawaiʻi as too expensive, while international travelers cited unfavorable exchange rates. Awareness of stewardship programs remains low, though broad messages about caring for Hawaiʻi resonate.

“A more coherent system would link marketing and stewardship within a unified strategy, expand successful site-management pilots into a statewide framework, and ensure transparency in the use of tourism revenues,” 糖心Vlog官方ERO wrote. “Moving from broad agreement to meaningful reform will require negotiation, experimentation and leadership across government, industry and communities. Recognizing both the common ground and the tradeoffs is an essential first step toward a more durable system of tourism governance. With aligned roles, resources and accountability, Hawaiʻi can move past zero-sum debates toward a robust tourism governance model that sustains communities, culture and the visitor experience.”

Read the and a .

糖心Vlog官方ERO is housed in 糖心Vlog官方 惭ā苍辞补鈥檚 .

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糖心Vlog官方 experts provide guidance to Shibuya delegation ahead of sister city signing /news/2024/06/06/experts-provide-guidance-to-shibuya/ Thu, 06 Jun 2024 20:49:51 +0000 /news/?p=198991 The Shibuya delegation wanted to learn more about regenerative tourism practices.

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people standing in front of a screen and smiling
TIM Professor Jerry Agrusa and Director and Professor of TIM Daniel Spencer met with a delegation from Shibuya, including Mayor Ken Hasebe.

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

two people standing in front of a large building
Jerry Agrusa and Ken Hasebe

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

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

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

More on the sister city signing

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

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

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Record $517K raised to empower future leaders in travel industry management /news/2024/04/11/celebrate-a-legacy-in-tourism-2024/ Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:45:55 +0000 /news/?p=195421 Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism honors individuals who have made significant and long-term contributions to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 tourism industry.

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people sitting on tables in a large ballroom
(Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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

people with lei standing and smiling
From left, Holden Lim, Mufi Hannemann, Shidler Dean Vance Roley, Mike Takayama and Jay Shidler (Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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

2024 honorees

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

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

people sitting on tables in a large ballroom
(Photo credit: Paula Ota)

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

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

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

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

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Oceanography, atmospheric sciences, more highly ranked for program excellence /news/2023/10/29/global-rankings-by-subject-2023/ Sun, 29 Oct 2023 18:00:50 +0000 /news/?p=185944 In total, 14 subjects placed in the world's top 1%.

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person with a book sitting under a tree

The is highly ranked in a variety of subject areas, according to two of the premier comprehensive subject rankings in the world.

The placed No. 7 in the U.S. and No. 17 in the world, the ranked No. 10 in the U.S. and No. 13 in the world and the placed No. 18 in the U.S. and No. 49 in the world, according to the (GRAS) released by the Shanghai Ranking Consultancy. The oceanography and atmospheric sciences departments are out of the , and the TIM school is housed in the .

In total, 14 subjects placed in the top 1% in the world (top 250 out of more than 25,000 colleges and universities worldwide) in both the and the GRAS.

“These rankings affirm our university鈥檚 commitment to excellence across a wide range of disciplines,” 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa Provost Michael Bruno said. “Our world-class faculty are working hard to prepare our students to be the creative and innovative leaders who will transform our islands and the world.”

Global Ranking of Academic Subjects

Fourteen 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa subjects were ranked by the Shanghai Ranking Consultancy, including four in the world鈥檚 top 100 and 11 in the nation鈥檚 top 70. GRAS, released on October 27, is considered one of the most comprehensive and objective rankings of world universities by subjects.

糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa was one of more than 1,900 universities in 104 countries and regions selected for the GRAS rankings, out of more than 25,000 total colleges and universities around the world. The criteria include research output, research influence, international collaboration, research quality and international academic awards.

糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa鈥檚 rankings:

  • Atmospheric science: No. 13 worldwide, No. 10 U.S.
  • Oceanography: No. 17 worldwide, No. 7 U.S.
  • Hospitality and tourism management: No. 49 worldwide, No. 18 U.S.
  • : No. 51–75 worldwide, No. 19–30 U.S.
  • : No. 101–150 worldwide, No. 47–62 U.S.
  • : No. 101–150 worldwide, No. 47–63 U.S.
  • : No. 101–150 worldwide, No. 68–84 U.S.
  • Ecology: No. 151–200 worldwide, No. 43–60 U.S.
  • : No. 151–200 worldwide, No. 72–87 U.S.
  • : No. 201–300 worldwide, No. 43–69 U.S.
  • : No. 201–300 worldwide, No. 49–66 U.S.
  • and : No. 201–300 worldwide, No. 53–67 U.S.
  • : No. 201–300 worldwide, No. 88–114 U.S.
  • : No. 401–500 worldwide, No. 56–63 U.S.

Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, released on October 26, five out of the 10 ranked 糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa subjects placed in the world鈥檚 top 1% (within top 250 in the world), while four others placed in the world鈥檚 top 2% (within top 500).

Times Higher Education considers the following factors for its rankings: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, industry income and patents. Regarded as one of the leading national and international university rankings focused on research and academic excellence, Times Higher Education considered between 621–1,374 of the top institutions for each of its subject rankings, out of more than 25,000 institutions worldwide, to be eligible for its World University Rankings by Subject.

糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa world rankings:

  • Education: No. 126–150
  • : No. 126–150
  • : No. 176–200
  • : No. 176–200
  • : No. 201–250
  • and : No. 301–400
  • : No. 301–400
  • Clinical and health: No. 301–400
  • Engineering: No. 401–500
  • : No. 501–600

Other rankings

糖心Vlog官方 M膩noa also received these notable rankings:

For more information, visit the .

—By Marc Arakaki

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Lifetime Asia Pacific tourism award presented to 糖心Vlog官方 professor /news/2023/08/29/asia-pacific-tourism-award/ Tue, 29 Aug 2023 21:03:47 +0000 /news/?p=182490 Jerry Agrusa was presented the award at APTA鈥檚 annual conference in Chiang Mai, Thailand in July 2023.

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person receiving award on a stage with several people
Professor Jerry Agrusa accepted the APTA Founder’s Award in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

A University of Hawaiʻi at M膩noa faculty member has become the first U.S. recipient of the (APTA) Founder鈥檚 Award, which recognizes a scholar or industry leader who has made significant lifetime contributions in advancing tourism research and/or industry practices in the Asia Pacific region.

person in a suit smiling with an award
Professor Jerry Agrusa

Professor Jerry Agrusa was presented the award at APTA鈥檚 annual conference in Chiang Mai, Thailand in July 2023.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the Asia Pacific Tourism Association鈥檚 Founder鈥檚 Award in memory of Professor Hai-Sik Sohn, the founder of APTA,” Agrusa said. “To be mentioned in the same company as esteemed leaders of hospitality and tourism in the Asia Pacific region, such as Professor Kaye Chon, dean of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a great honor. On a personal note, Professor Sohn was my h膩nai ‘Korean father’ who mentored me both professionally and personally, and I am a better man to have had him in my life. I am incredibly grateful to the APTA leadership for this recognition of my contribution to research and education in the Asia Pacific region.”

Agrusa is highly regarded for his expertise in research and teaching in the area of hospitality and tourism management. He has published more than 100 research articles and conference papers and presented his research in more than 25 different countries. Agrusa鈥檚 work has been cited in numerous newspapers and magazines including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and Forbes.

Agrusa has served on the APTA Board of Directors and has been the U.S. representative for the past 25 years. Agrusa is only the fifth recipient of this award. Past winners include professors from Hong Kong, Thailand, Philippines and Taiwan.

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