Three members of the Chaminade ‘ohana were honored at a special mass on January 22, 2020 as part of the annual Heritage Awards. Each year, Chaminade University recognizes three individuals who exemplify the Marianist tradition on campus and live and share Marianist values. This year’s award winners were Dr. Helen Turner, Julieann Tupuola and Andrew Trapsi ‘20.
The Chaminade Award is given each year to a faculty or staff member who has exhibited a strong commitment to the Characteristics of Marianist Universities and to serving as a champion for justice, love and the dignity and rights of all people in our community. This year’s recipient, Dr. Helen Turner, vice president for strategy and innovation, began her career at Chaminade as the dean of the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. Since Dr. Turner’s arrival at Chaminade, she has made tremendous contributions to the university, from updating the “I am a Scientist” curriculum to introducing new degree programs like data science, an MBA in healthcare administration and an MBA in science and technology. She has also led the way for the Ho’oulu Scholarship program in partnership with Kamehameha Schools. Dr. Turner has an uncanny ability to respond to the needs of our community and does so with great success.
Julieann Tupuola, Chaminade’s facilities coordinator, received the Marianist Award. The award celebrates her tireless and extraordinary efforts to build a collaborative, open and loving community, all while seeking to forward the university’s vision and mission. Julie first came to Chaminade as a student in 2012. She completed her bachelor’s degree in English in 2016, then completed her Master of Education degree last May. Julie is known to go above and beyond for the people that surround her. Besides her responsibilities as facilities coordinator, Julie serves as an advisor for the Samoan Club on campus. A student member of the club says, “Julie makes sure we are following our customs of respect and taking care of each other.”
The Founder’s Award is presented each year to a student who has exhibited a spirit of faith, demonstrated a commitment to Marianist values and served as a role model for the Chaminade community. Andrew Trapsi, a biochemistry major who plans to graduate this spring, was the well-deserved recipient this year. Originally from the Bay Area in California, Andrew is active at Chaminade, participating in Campus Ministry and Residence Life. One of his nominators says, “As an R.A., Andrew genuinely cares for his residents. On any given day, whether he is on duty or not, he can be found hanging out with his residents. He takes the time to really communicate with his residents and other students around campus.”
Congratulations and mahalo to our three award-winners! We are blessed and honored to have your unique gifts as part of our campus community.
