Chaminade University of Honolulu

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Doctor of Nursing Practice Immersion

The Doctor of Nursing Practice program helps to address a shortage of healthcare providers

Members of Chaminade’s newest Doctor of Nursing Practice cohort gathered on campus this week for a series of seminars, trainings and social events aimed at starting their new academic journey off right.

The DNP Immersion agenda included a special welcome address from Chaminade President Lynn Babington, who congratulated the new students for advancing their education to better serve others. “Chaminade is proud to play an important role in educating our future leaders in healthcare and expert clinicians,” Babington said, speaking to the nine new students in this year’s DNP cohort.

Three recent Silversword nursing graduates—Ashley Jardine ’24, Lisa Kawamura ’24 and Daniel Gardner ’24—are among the new DNP candidates and said they’re motivated to help address the shortage of healthcare providers in Hawaii and help prepare the next generation of nurses for the islands.

“I always wanted to be in healthcare,” said Gardner, who currently serves as a registered nurse at Kalihi Elementary. “My dad was a Green Beret medic and he helped a lot of people, which is what I want to do.”

Cohort member Jacqueline “Jacquie” Bassett is focusing on the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track of the DNP, which is the highest clinical degree available in the nursing field. A nurse with the oncology ward at Straub Medical Center, Bassett hopes to relocate to Hawaii Island after completing her doctoral degree because so many communities are healthcare deserts.

“They desperately need mental healthcare workers there,” Bassett said.

“My parents own a homecare facility on the Big Island, and they see firsthand the need for—not just physical healthcare but mental healthcare, as well.”

  • Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., congratulated the new cohort of Doctor of Nursing programs for advancing their education.
    Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., congratulated the new cohort of Doctor of Nursing programs for advancing their education.
  • Maryann Kaiwi Salvador, FNP-BC ’23 gave a ZOOM presentation to the new cohort of Doctor of Nursing Program students.
    Maryann Kaiwi Salvador, FNP-BC ’23 gave a ZOOM presentation to the new cohort of Doctor of Nursing Program students.
  • Doctor of Nursing Program students listened as Maryann Kaiwi Salvador, FNP-BC ’23 talked about her capstone DNP project.
    Doctor of Nursing Program students listened as Maryann Kaiwi Salvador, FNP-BC ’23 talked about her capstone DNP project.

A two-day program, the DNP Immersion on campus was led by School of Nursing Associate Dean and DNP Director Pam Smith, with the help of faculty members Linda Malone, Sandra Bourgette-Henry, Dana Monday and Marife Aczon-Armstrong. The agenda over the two days included introductions, faculty-led discussions about goals and motivation, scholarly writing and the significance of Hawaiian culture.

Maryann Kaiwi Salvador, DNP, FNP-BC ’24 also presented her capstone project to the group via Zoom, explaining that she focused her research on chronic kidney disease. She told students it’s critical to find an area of interest that keeps them interested—and drives them to contribute more to the field.

“When you think about the development of your DNP project, ask yourself: What is your passion?” Salvador said, during her presentation. “There will be bumps on the road and setbacks, but persevere and be ready to switch gears. Remember that your professors, your instructors, your clinical advisors and your mentors all believe in you. So believe in yourself.”

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Designed for registered nurses or advanced practice nurses, Chaminade’s DNP program emphasizes clinical expertise, leadership and the ability to translate research into practice, making DNPs well-suited to address the healthcare needs of isolated or marginalized populations, program leaders said.

The DNP’s newest cohort members kick off their doctoral journeys amid an ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals across the state, including for nurses—and particularly in specialties like primary care and mental health. Program leaders said DNPs bring advanced training to the field, giving them the ability to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of health conditions.

During her presentation, Salvador told students she will be joining Na Pu’uwai Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems on Molokai next week. “So when you think about your DNP project, think of where it might lead you,” she said.

In Chaminade’s DNP program, students can choose from one of four concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or Post-Master’s Executive Leader. 

“This DNP program will help you enhance your leadership skills,” Salvador said.

“You’ll get all the encouragement and support you will need from faculty and advisors to continue furthering your education. Congratulations on choosing to pursue your DNP.”

Silversword STEM Camp in American Samoa

Chaminade’s I Am a Scientist program is all about hands-on learning

For the first time since its founding in 2009, Chaminade’s popular I Am a Scientist summer camp traveled thousands of miles away to American Samoa this year, setting up base at the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center in Fagaalu on the eastern shore of Pago Pago Harbor.

Rhea Jose, an outreach coordinator for Chaminade’s CIFAL Center, said the two-week health sciences boot camp was geared toward first to eighth graders. In all, 169 students from elementary to high school attended the camp, getting a taste for what scientists do every day. “We brought six large luggage, which were packed with all kinds of equipment, including microscopes, DNA extraction kits, pulse oximeters, blood pressure cuffs, pipettes, thermometers, black lights, even glitter,” Jose said.

Since its inception, the I Am A Scientist outreach program has reached 72,339 students and visited 450 schools across Hawaii, Guam, Saipan and now American Samoa, according to Lori Shimoda, I Am A Scientist founder and research associate in the Natural Sciences and Mathematics department.

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Shimoda said before the program was launched, she had several discussions with CIFAL Honolulu Research Director Dr. Helen Turner about the need for a program that allowed keiki to experience what it means to be a scientist first-hand. “We were at a loss for how to do it,” Shimoda added, until her son—in third grade at the time—came home from school complaining that his science lessons were boring.

The reason? “They did not get to use the cool scientific equipment in the laboratory.”

The comment became the blueprint for the IAS program.

With the help of other faculty members and Silversword students, Shimoda started to take actual scientific equipment and supplies into classrooms to teach keiki about science by letting them become real scientists, using real scientific experiments and techniques.

“IAS takes real scientists and science undergraduates into the classroom so keiki can meet and talk to them about what it’s like to be a scientist, and how to go to school to become one,” Shimoda said.

“We offer a unique and fun science experience using equipment not typically found in schools. The science lessons are robust, and taught by working scientists.”

Funded by the Frederic Duclos Barstow Foundation for American Samoans, the IAS-AS camp was a unique collaboration between Chaminade and the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center, which ranks among the best medical facilities in the Pacific and is the only hospital in American Samoa.

Other partners included the American Samoa Telecommunication Authority, American Samoa Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs, the American Samoan Department of Education School Lunch Program, The National Science Foundation’s Alliance Supporting Pacific Indigenous Computing Excellence (ALL-SPICE) and CIFAL Honolulu. The camp focused on health science, a key need area.

“We remove barriers to participation by going to the school and being free,” wrote IAS-AS program staff member and Associate Professor of Biology Jolene Noelani Cogbill, in a write-up on the camp.

“We received daily comments from parents and community members, expressing their gratitude for bringing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to elementary-aged students to American Samoa, and asking if the IAS-AS program would be coming back regularly.”

They also noted how there are few educational STEM opportunities for students in American Samoa, and those that do exist are targeted towards high school students, Cogbill said in her report.

  • American Samoa students got to use various science equipment, including this mini microscope.
  • Chaminade Student Ambassador La‘a Gamiao helped students with science lab work.
  • Rhea Jose, Outreach Coordinator for Chaminade’s United Nations CIFAL Center and I Am A Scientist–American Samoa (IAS-AS) program staff member, provides one-on-one help with one of the students.
  • One of the modules focused on how easily germs spread and the importance of hygiene management. Campers were also asked to pick an environment (shoe, table, hands, etc) to swab and culture on agar plates so they could visualize “germs” on Day 3 of camp.
  • In this module students were introduced to the importance of OBSERVATION as a key part of not only the scientific process, but in our daily lives. They used their 5 senses as well as various scientific tools, such as magnifying glasses, digital and dissecting microscopes.
  • Chaminade Cultural Engagement Specialist Kahoalii Keahi-Wood assisted students with their science exercises.

Chaminade Convenes for Spiritual Convocation

The tradition celebrates ‘religious and spiritual roots’ of Chaminade life

One of the pillars that characterize a Marianist education is to educate for formation in faith. And there is perhaps no better example of this than during the Fall Spiritual Convocation.

A longstanding tradition at Chaminade, the Spiritual Convocation marks the beginning of the academic year, formally welcoming students, faculty and staff to the University community.

“It also affords the opportunity to ask for God’s blessing on our Chaminade ‘ohana as we come together as a community to live and learn,” said University President Lynn Babington.

“During this celebration, we take the time to pause and be mindful of each other.”

This sentiment of family spirit aligns with the Marianist approach to education, which seeks to nurture students’ unique talents and fosters a lifelong commitment to learning.

“Last Friday we took part in the Academic Convocation for this new academic year, emphasizing the hopes and aspirations, and taking our A‘a Pledge,” said Fr. Martin Solma S.M., during his sermon. “Today, fittingly, we touch upon the religious and spiritual roots of our University life.”

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During the Convocation, Bro. Ed Brink, Chaminade’s vice president of mission and rector, outlined the origins of the Marianist Educational Associates program. In 2005, representatives from Chaminade, the University of Dayton, and St. Mary’s University of San Antonio responded to a call from the Association of Marianist Universities Board to form a special partnership.

“This initiative invited lay collaborators to help sustain and renew the mission and identity of the universities, rooted in the Catholic and Marianist educational tradition,” Brink said.

“For students, faculty and staff who are new members of our community, it will give you another opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of the University.”

This past summer, seven Chaminade faculty and staff members participated in the MEA Formation in Dayton; the seven-day program involving readings, reflections and shared insights.

The MEA cohort includes:

  • Andrew Ancheta ’21, student engagement coordinator
  • Dr. Rylan Chong ’10, Data Science director and assistant professor
  • Dr. Cheryl Edelson, School of Humanities, Arts and Design dean
  • Dr. Abby Halston, MS ’05, Marriage and Family Counseling clinical director
  • Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07, women’s volleyball head coach
  • Pono Riddle ’18, MEd’ 21, Student Success associate director
  • Dr. Gail Grabowsky, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics dean

“These individuals are part of a community committed to strengthening and developing the Catholic and Marianist identity of this University,” Brink said, after calling the cohort’s names.

“I now ask you to affirm your commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.”

Brink also recognized the 23 Chaminade staff members and faculty who made their first commitment in previous years, asking them to stand and renew their commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.

In unison, the MEAs pledged to uphold and advance the Catholic and Marianist mission and identity of Chaminade University. They committed to ongoing reflection, collaboration, and the continuation of programs that reinforce Chaminade’s identity as a Catholic and Marianist University.

They also promised to support others in growing in their understanding and appreciation of the Catholic and Marianist traditions, aiming to embody and witness these traditions for the benefit of the world.

By offering a quality education and searching for truth through human wisdom and faith, Solma said students are able to expand their minds and hearts, and helps them become servant-leaders.

“And, all of this within our Chaminade ‘ohana, where respect, acceptance, appreciation and encouragement are palpable,” Solma added. “As Fr. Chaminade wanted—a genuine family spirit.”

Silverswords Kick Off New School Year

Kalaepohaku abuzz as new and returning students are welcome for the first day of classes

It’s natural to have the jitters on your first day of college. And while Kameron Arizumi ’28 had made a couple of visits to campus over the summer, he arrived early Monday for the first day of the new academic year—leaving himself ample time to find his first nursing class in Henry Hall.

What he found was a campus abuzz with activity.

“I am excited and looking forward to get started on my college journey,” said Arizumi. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about Chaminade’s nursing program, which is the reason I chose to come here.”

Ulupuhi Pale ’27 kicked off his sophomore year on Monday. He said he’s still considering going to seminary school after he graduates from Chaminade. He turned to his faith during the darkest days of COVID, and the Kuliouou native says he’s a strong proponent of Chaminade’s mission and values.

“I believe in an education in faith and service to the community,” said Pale, who can often be seen strumming his ukulele or playing his guitar on campus.

“Chaminade was the perfect school for me and I really like the people and the sense of ‘ohana.”

Lounging in an Adirondack chair in Zuberano Courtyard, LaVelle White ’26 said it felt good to be back on campus. Waiting for his Digital Humanities class to start, the Data Science, Analytics and Visualization major said he’d already attended two classes in the morning and was excited about the year ahead.

“Over the summer I did a couple of internships which kept me busy,” said the Army veteran. “I’m glad to be back because it means I’m getting closer to completing my degree.”

Chaminade President Lynn Babington was delighted to see the energy on campus Monday.

“It’s wonderful to welcome our new students to campus, as well as our returning students since today marks the first day of classes,” she said.

“It’s great to walk around campus and see all the smiles. Everyone is happy to be back.”

Indeed, Monday morning started off for many students with embraces and shakas, as they greeted friends they hadn’t seen over the summer break. Returning students could be heard sharing their classes for the semester, while freshmen could be seen asking for directions to various campus buildings.

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A first-year student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program, Walter Lee was admiring the beauty of Chaminade’s campus Monday, commenting on the ocean views and slopes of Kalaepohaku. “It’s the first time I have ever stepped on this campus,” he said.

“I chose Chaminade’s PsyD program because it’s more clinical and less research. I like to communicate with people and listen with an empathetic ear.”

Taking photos and promoting Movie Night this coming Thursday, Madison Makashima ’24 can’t believe it’s her senior year. “When I first started, I remember people telling me to enjoy every moment because it goes by quickly,” she said. “I thought they were exaggerating a little bit, but now I know they were telling the truth. It’s a great feeling to be back and seeing all the familiar faces and the new ones as well.”

  • Ulupuhi Pale can often be seen entertaining during certain campus events.
    Ulupuhi Pale can often be seen entertaining during certain campus events.
  • Now a senior, Madison Makashima is excited about completing her degree in Forensic Sciences.
    Now a senior, Madison Makashima is excited about completing her degree in Forensic Sciences.
  • Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., welcome back students with a special lunch served by some of the Women's Volleyball.
    Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., welcome back students with a special lunch served by some of the Women’s Volleyball.
  • Kameron Arizumi looks forward to the beginning of his college journey.
    Kameron Arizumi looks forward to the beginning of his college journey.
  • Walter Lee is pursing his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD).
    Walter Lee is pursing his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD).
  • Efron and Denise Lopez with their younger daughter Madeleine helped Alexis adjust to campus life.
    Efron and Denise Lopez with their younger daughter Madeleine helped Alexis adjust to campus life.

New Student Orientation a Success

Incoming freshmen got a Silversword welcome at the daylong event.

With fists pumping in the air and boisterous “woo-hoos,” freshmen walked through a gauntlet of Chaminade faculty members dressed in full academic regalia, clapping loudly as students filed out after the Academic Convocation during New Student Orientation on Friday.

Held at Mamiya Theatre, this formal ceremony officially marks the beginning of the academic year—and holds significant meaning for both the University and incoming students.

A nursing major, freshman Rex Paguirigan poses with Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik.
A nursing major, freshman Rex Paguirigan poses with Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik.

“We gather to welcome new families and students,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington, in her opening remarks at the convocation.

“You will meet new people and form new bonds, and you will laugh with each other and struggle with each other. You will learn new ways of thinking and discerning who you are and who you want to be.”

New Student Orientation is designed to acquaint incoming freshmen, transfer and exchange students with the campus and the many resources available to them—both for their academic success and personal development.

Orientation activities focus on several important areas, including the curriculum, academic advising, college success, scholarships and financial aid, campus activities, student services, student organizations, Silversword Spirit and campus facilities.

Also from Chaminade News: Students Welcomed on Move-in Day

“College is a new chapter in your life, an unwritten page in your book,” said Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik, in her address at the Academic Convocation.

“As you embark on this journey at Chaminade, remember that college is not just about the classes you take or the grades you earn. It’s about the experiences you have, the challenges you overcome, and the person you become along the way. Embrace every moment—the highs and the lows—and know that each day is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become a better version of yourself.”

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Starting college life successfully can be challenging. But NSO gatherings were designed to set the right tone for incoming students, encouraging them to embrace curiosity and try new experiences.

“We see in you transformation through education,” said Provost Lance Askildson. “This is an inflection point in your life. You will struggle and even fail at times to achieve your goals—and that is OK. You’ll have untold opportunities to grow, learn and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Our kuleana, our duty is to support you, to guide you and teach you. You are not alone in this journey.”

In her concluding remarks, Zembik offered some sage advice. “Every day is a new day,” she advised. “No matter how good or bad today was, tomorrow is different. Just like a sunset, no two days are the same.”

Students Welcomed on Move-in Day

Incoming freshmen spent the day settling into their new dorm rooms.

College move-in day can be an emotional experience, oftentimes marking the first time that many incoming students leave behind their family, friends and pets for a new adventure.

At Chaminade on Thursday, freshmen said they were excited to be moving into their dorms.

“When I first visited Hawaii with my family a few years ago, I knew my goal was to live here,” said Alexis Lopez, who was checking into her dorm room at Hale Lokelani with the help of parents, Denise and Efren Lopez, and younger sister Madeleine.

“I’m excited about my Forensic Sciences classes, exploring the campus and meeting new people.”

Efren and Denise, with youngest daughter Madeleine, accompanied Alexis to the Chaminade campus.
Efren and Denise, with youngest daughter Madeleine, accompanied Alexis to the Chaminade campus.

Often followed by New Student Orientation events and campus tours, move-in day introduces incoming freshmen to their roommates, hallmates and resident assistants, while also gives them a chance to learn the campus and school traditions.

“As a resident assistant, we take care of all the students,” said Temika Hemmings ’25, while writing a welcome message on a floor-to-ceiling blackboard wall. “We help spread the aloha and make them feel welcome. We help them grow to become the best version of themselves.”

Accompanied by grandparents Karen and Tom Perez and her dad Joey Cruz, Ha‘ane Cruz learned she was assigned a room just doors down from where the Perez’ son, Aleksander Perez ’22, roomed six years ago.

“I also have two uncles who came here, so I feel like I already know a little bit about Chaminade,” said Ha‘ane Cruz ’28, who plans to major in biochemistry.

“I’m looking forward to the next four years, and meeting new people.”

Also moving in at Hale Lokelani, Shailah Decoito is a new transfer student from Hilo.

“I started the nursing program at the University of Hawaii–Hilo, but it was too competitive. I heard a lot about the Chaminade nursing program and I decided to apply, and I was accepted. I feel lucky because almost all of my credits from UH–Hilo transferred over, so I’m not starting from scratch.”

Checking out the kitchen and common area at Hale Lokelani, Laureano Almada-Roa ’28 roamed the room with his mom, Nora Luna, and his little brother Emiliano Almada.

“I’m nervous, excited and sad all at the same time,” said Luna, an Argentinian native. “He’ll be so far from home, but this is where he wanted to go to college.”

After touring campus, Almada-Roa said he was convinced he chose the right university.

“I saw or read something about Chaminade, and it just felt comfortable,” said the Brooklyn native. “It is far away from home, but I’ve heard that this is a close and supportive community from the people whom I’ve already met here.”