Welcome, parents & families!

Welcome to our Chaminade ‘ohana! We are excited for your student to join us as a new Silversword.

Just like we will support your student throughout their Chaminade journey (and beyond), we are also here to help you transition to being a Chaminade parent.

Being involved with your Silversword’s university experience contributes to their success. This guide will provide you with tips, information and resources that can help you support your student at Chaminade University.

TRANSITION TIPS FOR PARENTS & FAMILY

Stay connected with your student.

Share in your student’s excitement and create a space for them to share their anxieties or concerns. Make a plan to check in—how often you would like to communicate with your student and how will you communicate (phone call, text, video chat). Remember, to also respect their space and boundaries.

Encourage your student to seek support services as needed.

Your student may face academic or personal challenges. Don’t worry, we’ll be there for your student. We have wraparound support services for students, from academic advising and career development to tutoring and mental health counseling.

Respect your student’s academic journey.

College is a time for your student to explore their interests and find what they’re passionate about. It’s estimated that 20% of students aren’t sure about their major when they enroll and 33% will change their major during their college experience. Being supportive and encouraging your student to pursue their interests is important.

Encourage your student to get involved.

College allows students to connect with different people and leave their comfort zone. We have many opportunities for involvement. Encourage your student to experience all that we offer, including joining a club, playing an intramural sport, or attending an event.

Expect your student to change.

Your student is entering a new chapter of their life. They will be meeting people of different backgrounds and enjoying new experiences. They are also maturing. It’s only natural that they will change. It’s important to have patience, talk with them and listen to them.

Plan your finances together.

Make a list of university expenses, from tuition, meal plan, and housing to textbooks, transportation, health insurance and personal expenses. Discuss financial expectations with your student—who will pay for what expenses—and help them create a healthy financial plan and budget.

FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords your student certain rights regarding their education records. Without their prior written consent, your student’s education records are confidential.

Learn more about FERPA.

Important Contacts

Campus Security: [email protected] | (808) 735-4792

Dean of Students: [email protected] | (808) 735-4710

Residence Life: [email protected] | (808) 739-4649

a student looking through the microscope while the other looks at a slide

A PLACE FOR THE CURIOUS

Whether your student knows what they want to study or are still exploring, they’ll build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to meet the evolving needs and demands of various industries and fields—and they will have a network of support to help them reach their goals.

Majors and Minors

With over 60 majors and minors, we believe the most effective learning happens outside the classroom. From simulations to research trips, there are many hands-on learning opportunities for your student to deepen their understanding.

Student Success

Your student will never be alone. Our Student Success team works with them throughout their Chaminade journey to achieve their academic and life goals.

Apo Haumana Program: first-year students are paired with a faculty member to help ease the transition to Chaminade.
Academic Advising: a dedicated academic advisor will help your student create a four-year plan, review academic progress, register for classes and more.
Career Development: our team will provide your student with career resources and opportunities, including internships.
Kokua Ike: Tutoring & Learning Services: our team offers one-on-one in-person or 24/7 online tutoring services and a writing lab.
ADA Accommodations: we are committed to meeting students where they are, and ensuring their success.

Undergraduate Research & Pre-Professional Programs

This Office helps your student enhance their academic experience through research, internships, professional seminars, speaker presentations and more. If they are interested in pursuing a career in health professions, they have the opportunity for early admission to a health profession graduate program at partner universities.

Sullivan Family Library

Our 30,000-square-foot library is a place for endless resources. It also has a 40-workstation computer lab, multimedia group study rooms and a technology training lab.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

More than just a place of learning, your student will grow, meet people of different backgrounds, be inspired, try new things, and make lifelong friendships. They will be part of an ‘ohana.

Residence Life

Living on campus enhances the Chaminade experience. Your student will meet fellow Silverswords from across the nation, make everlasting friendships, and enjoy residential activities. We have three on-campus residence halls and one off-campus apartment complex.

Dining/Meal Plans

Your student can fuel up at our all-you-can-eat Silversword Cafe or grab-and-go P.O.D. General Store. Meal plans are required for students living in the on-campus residence halls. Meal plans and Debit Dollars are available to residence and commuting students.

Health Services

The health and safety of our campus community is our priority. Students must comply with health clearance requirements.

Counseling Center

College brings changes and challenges. Our Counseling Center offers confidential one-on-one counseling, group counseling, and peer counseling. Encourage your student to seek mental health support as needed.

Campus Security

Chaminade’s Campus Security is available 24/7 for your student’s needs. Our team of security professionals is available by phone or email in all matters of emergency.

Parking Pass/Bus Pass

A parking permit is required to park on campus, Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–4 p.m. Student parking permits are available for purchase starting July 1 from the Business Office. Students can also purchase a U-PASS bus pass at a discounted rate from the Business Office.

Mailroom

Students living on campus are eligible for their own mailboxes—an opportunity to send them care packages!

THE SILVERSWORD EXPERIENCE

At Chaminade University, your student is earning more than a degree. They’ll learn to take chances, step out of their comfort zone, connect with people of different backgrounds, become a leader, and more. The college experience is about discovering who they are and what they’re passionate about— and we’ll provide them with the opportunities and resources to do just that.

Student Engagement

This office enhances your student’s experience by providing vibrant engagement opportunities outside of the classroom through student clubs and organizations, activities, events, programming and more.

Website | (808) 739-8556 | [email protected]

Student Clubs and Organizations

We have over 30 student clubs and organizations, and over 100 events during the year. If your student wants to share an interest with our community, they can start a club for that!

Campus Ministry

Campus ministry is open to all students (regardless of spiritual identity) for friendship, conversation, support and guidance. Students can explore their spirituality and development.

Website | (808) 735-4774 | [email protected]

Silversword Athletics

We have 12 NCAA Division II men’s and women’s athletic teams that compete in the Pacific West Conference. Go Swords!

Website | (808) 735-4790

Carlson Fitness Center

Physical activity can support your student’s mental health. Carlson Fitness Center is open to all students—it has machines, weights, and more.

Website

FINANCING YOUR STUDENT’S FUTURE

We’re committed to making your student’s educational investment affordable. Our teams are here to help you on your financial path.

Financial Aid

Our Financial Aid counselors will provide you with guidance and resources to assist you and your student in paying for college. They can also walk you through your student’s financial aid award/package.

Schedule an appointment at (808) 735-4780 or [email protected].

Business Office

The Business Office manages students’ tuition billing and payments. Reference the academic calendar for semester start dates, and check your email for e-billing communication, statements and reminders.

Questions? Contact us at (808) 735-4711 or [email protected].

Student Emergency Fund

We understand that the unexpected can happen. For full-time students who encounter unexpected emergencies that could impact academic success, Chaminade’s Student Emergency Fund may be able to cover costs up to $1,000.

For more information visit the Student Emergency Fund webpage.

UNIVERSITY DICTIONARY

When your student becomes a Silversword, you’ll hear phrases or terms that may be new to you and your student. Here’s a list of common university lingo you’ll hear.

The person who helps you and your student throughout the admissions process, from getting to know Chaminade to application and admittance.

A dedicated person who will help your student throughout their academic journey at Chaminade—creating a four-year graduation pathway, class scheduling, providing academic resources and opportunities, and more.

The person who leads the academic school and its faculty members, and oversees the academic programs within the school.

School of Business and Communication: Dr. Annette Santos
School of Education and Behavioral Sciences: Dr. Dale Fryxell
School of Humanities, Arts and Design: Dr. Cheryl Edelson
School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics: Dr. Gail Grabowsky
School of Nursing and Health Professions: Dr. Lorin Ramocki

A time during the semester when students can enroll or drop courses. Students should consult with their Academic Advisor.

Refers to our physical location in Kaimuki.

Courses that must be taken to meet graduation requirements.

Credits measure the number of applied hours recognized for the successful completion of a course. Total credits vary by course.

This office creates a safe, inclusive and vibrant campus environment and will support your academic, social and personal development. Our Dean of Students is Dr. Allison Jerome.

They are part of the Marianist community on campus. Some of the Brothers and Fathers are an integral part of the Chaminade ‘ohana—as advisors, directors and professors.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords your student certain rights regarding their education records, keeping it confidential.

We are committed to removing financial barriers so your student can pursue their passion at Chaminade University. Financial aid assists you in paying the cost of tuition, in the form of scholarships, grants, loans and more.

A short-term opportunity offered by a company where your student can gain experience in the industry or field they are interested in. Our Career Development team will help your student find internship opportunities.

A member of the Society of Mary, often referred to as a Marianist Brother or Father. As part of our Chaminade ‘ohana, they will support you throughout your student on their academic and spiritual journey.

A prepaid account students can use to buy meals on campus. Students living on campus are required to purchase a meal plan, and commuting students have the option to purchase a meal plan. Eateries on-campus include an all-you-can-eat Silversword Cafe and grab-and-go P.O.D. Market.

Times that faculty members make available to meet with students for academic support and to discuss academic goals.

This office provides the vision and leadership of our university. Chaminade’s President is Dr. Lynn Babington.

This office oversees the development of our academic programs and policies. Chaminade’s Provost is Dr. Lance Askildson.

An expert in their field they are the person teaching the courses. 100% of our courses are taught by professors (not teaching assistants or graduate assistants). Our professors will provide individualized support and mentorship to their students.

This office maintains and safeguards students’ academic records. If students need to request transcripts, change information, or check their enrollment status, this office will help them.

A document provided by professors that outlines their course and gives essential information to the students (e.g. assignments, deadlines, exam dates, etc.)

The Vice Provost works closely with the Provost to further the mission of Chaminade University in the areas of faculty development, academic support, and assessment. Chaminade’s Vice Provost is Dr. Janet Davidson.

Helping to pay for college tuition, students are placed in part-time jobs to gain work experience and new skills.

STAY IN THE KNOW

Just because your student will be at Chaminade doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the happenings. We want you to feel like you’re part of our ‘ohana—follow us on our different social media platforms.

If you have any questions, we’re happy to help you. Contact Admissions at (808) 739-8340 or [email protected].