Chaminade University of Honolulu

Behavioral Sciences

Finding Balance: A Future Psychologist’s Journey

Ryan Panzarella, PsyD ’26 credits his formative years for giving him an empathetic ear.

He grew up abroad, attending American schools in Europe and the United Arab Emirates, and believes his global experience and perspective have served him well as he prepares for a future in psychology. “I have always believed that our differences are our strengths,” he says.

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Panzarella is pursuing a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology at Chaminade. The APA-accredited program is designed to prepare students for psychology practice, and stresses immersive learning and clinical experience. Panzarella has thrived under that model, tackling a number of hands-on internships at facilities in Hawaiʻi and Colorado.

Panzarella’s academic journey has been a circuitous one.

It started when he entered boot camp at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y.

After two years, Panzarella realized military life wasn’t his life’s path. So after a gap year, he enrolled at Berklee College in Boston, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music therapy and started pursuing a future in counseling and psychology. “The environment at Berklee better suited me since I was surrounded by students from different cultures,” Panzarella said.

As a music therapy major, Panzarella learned to connect, inspire and heal others through music.

Ryan Panzarella believes in open spaces to allow for dialogue.
Ryan Panzarella, PsyD ’26 says he found his passion in counseling psychology.

“Music strikes an emotional chord among people,” Panzarella said.

Panzarella’s first job after graduation wasn’t in music therapy, however. Instead, he moved back to the UAE, where he took a position as a project and general manager. He then returned to Seattle to land for a job with Comcast Business. He thought he was ready to settle down. He wasn’t.

Feeling unfulfilled, he quit his well-paying job, and decided to become a professional caretaker at an adult foster care home.

“I found the work rewarding.”

With the support of his parents, Roy and Jody Panzarella, he was able to enroll in the Clinical Psychology doctoral degree program at Chaminade. The PsyD program aims to educate and train students, employing a practitioner-scholar model so graduates succeed in the profession.

Panzarella’s dissertation is titled, “Narratives of Solitude and Belonging in the Age of Information,” and explores how the more connected we are online, the more isolated we become. “It’s a paradox,” he explained. “How do we as psychologists address that gap?”

Panzarella said Associate Professor Joy Tanji, Ph.D. has been a key mentor for his dissertation research. Tanji, meanwhile, praised Panzarella for making key connections through his research.

As he continues work on his degree, Panzarella has made what he hopes is a temporary move to Denver for a one-year internship at the Colorado Mental Health Institute. His goal is to return to the islands and open his own practice.

“I want to give back to the community, which has been instilled in me since I was young, even more so now that I have been at Chaminade,” he said.

A Life of Public Service

As adjutant general of the Hawai‘i Department of Defense, Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan ’89 acknowledges a life of public service isn’t easy—or especially lucrative. But giving back to the community and looking for ways to make things better, he says, really is its own reward.

“My message to students is: Stick with it. You just don’t know where it’s going to take you,” he said.

Logan’s career certainly has been full of twists and turns.

He was a Honolulu Police Department (HPD) helicopter pilot and military aviator. He deployed as a deputy commander to Afghanistan. During the pandemic, he lived for months in the Hawai‘i National Guard’s headquarters in Diamond Head. And when flames tore through Lahaina, he led a joint task force to aid in the response efforts.

All that happened before Logan took on one of the toughest jobs in Hawai‘i state government—overseeing the training and readiness of the Hawai‘i Army and Air National Guards as state adjutant general, a role he assumed in October 2024. At a moment’s notice, the Guard must be ready to assist with everything from natural disasters at home to conflicts abroad.

Logan, 61, said his journey to being named state adjutant general was a circuitous one.

This story appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of Chaminade Magazine. To read more, click here.

It began right after he graduated from high school on O‘ahu and joined the military. When he returned, he enrolled in the police cadet program and started what would become a long career with HPD. About the same time, he applied to Chaminade University and started taking night courses as he was working during the day. Logan says he was grateful for the flexibility.

He studied Criminal Justice and says one of the things he enjoyed most about Chaminade was learning from experienced leaders in their fields and being encouraged to apply his skills in real-world situations. “It gives you the theory and then the practice,” Logan said.

For example, Logan added, his professors included a retired Circuit Court judge, high-ranking police officers and a civil litigation attorney. Those experts gave him a fuller picture of the criminal justice system that would help him as a police officer and military leader.

Logan comes from a family of public servants. His grandfather served as a police officer in New York City. His father was in the Navy and the Army. And his two brothers are also veterans. In fact, brother Arthur Logan was previously the state adjutant general and is now Honolulu’s police chief.

Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan ’89 recites the Oath of Office to Hawai’i Gov. Josh Green. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Mysti Bicoy)

“My parents were steeped in public service and giving back,” Stephen Logan said, adding he chose military service and law enforcement because he wanted the chance to help others. “There are certain things on a regular workday where you can really help someone out,” he said.

“I used to tell my subordinates: When you take off your uniform, you can think that ‘I served a greater good.’ There’s simply no monetary value you can put on that. You can be proud of yourself.”

In the National Guard, Logan trained as a helicopter pilot and later became a test pilot. Later, at the Honolulu Police Department, he would fly HPD’s helicopter to maintain his flight certifications.

Over his years at the agency, Logan also climbed the ranks—and thought he would retire there.

But then a “dream job” opened up at the Hawai‘i National Guard—as state Army aviation officer—and Logan jumped at the opportunity. He held the position for more than a decade, overseeing a massive aviation program amid a “revolving door” of Middle East deployments.

At the Hawai‘i Army National Guard, and later, at the State Department of Defense, Logan continued to embrace new challenges. In 2019, he was named deputy adjutant general, a role in which he helped the state respond to some of the biggest crises Hawai‘i has ever seen, from the COVID pandemic to the deadly wildfires that tore through historic Lahaina town.

After the fire, Logan traveled to Maui to help oversee the National Guard’s response. Guard members augmented FEMA recovery teams, assisted with relief efforts, and established a security zone. Logan said many of those who responded had just wrapped up an exhaustive training exercise. When he went to visit them, they’d say, “There’s no way I could stay home.”

“That’s what really swells my heart,” he said.

As state adjutant general, Logan also serves as director of the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency. He said while the Lahaina disaster was a tragic wake-up call about the growing dangers of wildfires in a warming world, the state is more prepared now to respond to fast-moving blazes.

“The more we do now, the more responsive and effective we’re going to be later on,” Logan said, adding that one of the best resources in the preparedness fight is human capital—a conscientious and talented workforce of people committed to serve. His advice to young people considering their future careers: “A life of public service is rewarding. You can give back—and that’s something.”

Students Inducted Into Psychology Honor Society

Sixty-five Chaminade Psychology students were recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to the field with induction into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, during a Spring term ceremony.

Membership in the prestigious society is for life.

Abby Halston, Ed.D, associate professor of psychology at Chaminade, said students inducted into the society “have worked tirelessly to earn this lifelong honor.” She added, “Watching them be recognized for their dedication, resilience, and academic excellence is incredibly rewarding.

She noted that Chaminade has had a Psi Chi chapter for 26 years. Participants benefit from the prestigious recognition along with access to scholarships, research grants and networking events.

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Annie Kramer ’25 served as the president of the Psi Chi chapter at Chaminade over the past academic year. The Psychology major, who also minored in Education, said the group offers an important gathering space for students with a passion for their education and psychology.

“Like minded students are able to connect and build community together,” she said, adding participating in Psi Chi afforded her the opportunity to “deeply connect with peers and faculty members in a new light” and build her leadership skills as she pursued her studies.


    • “We want new Psi Chi members to feel proud of their hard work and dedication to the field,” Kramer said. “In our ceremony, we aimed to express that being inducted into Psi Chi is a great honor and that each member and their guests can celebrate their devotion for psychology.”

    In addition to regular networking events over the last academic year, the Psi Chi chapter partnered with the Chaminade Counseling Center to organize and promote wellness events. Those ranged from a psychology-themed scavenger hunt to a Valentine’s Day gathering.

    Silverswords Study Criminal Justice Abroad

    A group of Chaminade Criminology and Criminal Justice students spent a whirlwind spring break in Mexico, Belize and Honduras. But they weren’t soaking in rays at the beach—at least not most of the time. Instead, they were studying international criminal justice systems.

    The 13 student participants traveled with Kelly Treece, Ph.D., director of the Criminology and Criminal Justice Program at Chaminade. This was the third study trip Treece has led to international locales, and she said each one is eye-opening for students.

    “These opportunities provide students with a global view of criminal justice,” Treece said.

    “They are able to identify both the strengths and the weaknesses of the U.S. criminal justice system and the strengths and weaknesses of other criminal justice systems. Ultimately, this type of global travel provides them with a foundation for potential reform proposals.”

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    Owen Caba ’26 couldn’t agree more.

    He’s double majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice and said the study trip was nothing less than “life-changing.” Two highlights for him: Traveling to Placencia, Belize, a small beach town where everyone was welcoming, and shuttling their way to Roatan, a city in Honduras.

    “Belize is the country I plan to go back to and want to learn more about,” said Caba, who also traveled with Treece to Australia and New Zealand on previous trips. “Studying abroad broadened my perspective by unlocking new cultures and showing me the daily lives of different people.”

    Chaminade Criminology and Criminal Justice students pose for photos during their spring break trip to Central and South America.

    Hannah Grace Dyer ’25, a Criminology and Criminal Justice major, said she felt privileged to explore different countries and their criminal justice systems. In Roatan, Honduras, students enjoyed the idyllic scenery while also taking note of indicators of higher crime and poverty.

    “I would be interested to learn more about the notoriously corrupt government in Honduras and how that affects the criminal justice system along with why there is less crime in Roatan than Honduras mainland.,” she said, adding that hearing first-hand accounts was instructive.

    “In America, almost every place you go you will experience the melting pot of cultures, people, and personalities that our country hosts. However, if you go to another country like Honduras or Mexico, you will see one culture and mainly one group of people. To me, this is always so fascinating because it gives me insight into different ways of understanding others.”

    For Dyer, the trips also turned out to be a bonding experience with her fellow classmates.

    “After both of these trips, I immediately felt closer to my classmates and the ’ohana at Chaminade,” she said. “One of my favorite parts of the trip was in Belize, spontaneously exploring the town of Placencia, trying local cuisine, learning about the local police department, and relaxing at the beach. This was a more ‘low-key’ day and a great break from my everyday schedule.”

    Graduating With a Bachelor’s—While in High School

    Veronica “Bonnie” Nagahisa ’25 doesn’t believe in wasting time.

    On May 3, the 18-year-old will graduate from Chaminade University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. And three weeks later, she’ll walk again at Kapa’a High to accept her high school diploma.

    Hawai’i Department of Education officials say she is the first student on Kaua’i to be awarded a high school diploma and bachelor’s degree at the same time.

    “For most students, earning a high school diploma is the goal. But for Bonnie, it was just the beginning,” said Kapaʻa High Principal Tommy Cox. “She’s a great example for our students, showing them that nothing is impossible with the opportunities available at Kapaʻa High.”

    Nagahisa’s college journey began after eighth grade, when she started taking online courses at Kauaʻi Community College.

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    Her mother, Kimi Nagahisa, an early college counselor at Kanu o ka ʻĀina Charter School, helped guide her through the process.

    “We try our best to mold and raise our kids but in many ways, they teach us patience, grace, and kindness. I am just so proud of her,” Nagahisa said.

    By the end of her sophomore year, Bonnie had completed the requirements for her high school diploma and associate’s degree.

    Still “super young,” as she put it, she enrolled full-time in Chaminade’s FLEX program to pursue her bachelor’s degree fully online.

    “I’ve always loved school, reading, writing—all things education,” she said.

    Bonnie, the oldest of seven siblings, says she was able to tackle her advanced studies along with her family and social life by maintaining a good balance.

    “That balance looks different for everyone — the key is to find what works for you, especially when chasing big goals. At the end of the day, whatever you’re striving for, it’s essential to make space for joy, peace, and connection. Those things help ease the stress that often comes with pursuing your goals.”

    Despite her demanding schedule, Nagahisa stayed active at Kapaʻa High, taking electives and study halls to stay connected with friends and campus life.

    She is a National Honor Society member and a regular at volunteer events like Relay for Life, Toys for Tots, and campus beautification. She also made time to support nearly every school sporting event. “Staying engaged and showing school spirit was important to me, even with a full plate,” she said.

    After graduating with her bachelor’s degree, Bonnie plans to continue her studies at Chaminade. She has been admitted into the Master’s of Arts in Teaching program.

    Chaminade Doctoral Student Publishes Book

    Bridget Duncan, DMFT ’26 didn’t expect to be a published author before she even graduated with her doctoral degree. But the licensed marriage and family therapist, who manages a private practice, also doesn’t believe in letting a good idea gather dust.

    That’s how a conversation with a doctoral program advisor at Chaminade turned into a book, published in January on Amazon. Duncan’s book’s title says it all: “Stop Dyeing Red Flags Pink: Your Roadmap to Healthy, Balanced Relationships.”

    “I talk about relationships and attachment theory. What are the red flags? And why do we ignore them?” Duncan said, adding the book was written for everyone—from people struggling in relationships to professionals looking for ways to help clients.

    Bridget Duncan, DMFT ’26 (in black) poses on campus with School of Education and Behavioral Sciences Dean Dale Fryxell, Ph.D., DMFT Program Director Blendine P. Hawkins, Ph.D., LMFT (right), and Emily Kahumoku-Fessler, Ph.D., LMFTS (left), associate director of the DMFT program.

    Duncan said the snappy title of the book came first.

    She recalls chatting with Dr. Emily Kahumoku-Fessler, LMFTS, associate director of Chaminade’s Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy program, and mentioning just how frustrated she was about clients “dyeing those red flags pink” in their relationships.

    Duncan recalls Kahumoku-Fessler telling her that would make a great book title.

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    “She planted that seed,” Duncan said, adding the professors in the DMFT program followed up by encouraging her to take the leap into writing. “The idea really resonated with me and I thought, ‘Why not?’” Duncan recalled, speaking from her home office.

    After the book was published, Duncan got another exciting opportunity.

    She was invited to deliver a presentation on red flags in inter-partner violence at the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma Hawai’i conference in April. Duncan said she’ll have copies of her book on-hand and looks forward to underscoring her message.

    Duncan said she was able to complete her book, even with her rigorous doctoral studies, by setting a goal of writing at least 30 minutes a day. She found that once she got started, she often wrote more than that—and also made important connections to her doctoral studies.

    Her dissertation, which she also hopes to publish as a book, is focused on the “potent” impacts of social media on symptoms of anxiety and depression among middle-aged adults. She said studies have previously focused on younger social media followers.

    Duncan enrolled in Chaminade’s DMFT after researching programs across the country.

    She said the degree at Chaminade had the supportive atmosphere she was looking for—and the flexibility she needed as a full-time therapist. “The entire faculty has been amazing and they’re the best in the field. We’re learning from the cream of the crop,” she said. “If you’re looking for a program that is going to support and challenge you, this is the one for you.”

    And as for being an author, Duncan says it’s a milestone she never imagined she’d achieve.

    “But everybody can do what I did,” she said. “You’ve just got to reach for it.”