Chaminade University of Honolulu

Campus and Community

From Student Leader to Campus Mentor

Pamela Oda ‘24, MSCJ ‘25 rarely has down time—and she likes it that way.

When the Criminology and Criminal Justice student isn’t attending class or studying, she’s probably volunteering or interning in her field. And just recently, she stepped away from a long list of Chaminade extracurriculars so she could juggle all her work at Chaminade with running two small businesses. You read that right: On top of everything else, she’s an entrepreneur.

“In all honesty, I believe that all my experiences at Chaminade University—whether it was academics, clubs and organizations, student employment, events and more—have all been transformative for me,” Oda said. “Everything I’ve participated in, every person I have had the pleasure of working with and everything in between has made me into the person I am today.”

Oda, whose bachelor’s degree from Chaminade also includes a second major in Data Science, Analytics and Visualization at Chaminade along with minors in Computer Information Systems and Psychology, is an intern with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Honolulu Field Office.

Criminology and Criminal Justice at Chaminade

It’s the third internship she’s clinched while pursuing her degree. She was previously an undergraduate intern for the Hawaii State Judiciary, contributing to legislative and government reports. And in summer 2023, she was a research intern for the state Attorney General’s Crime Prevention and Justice Assistance Division Research and Statistics branch.

Oda credits Chaminade professors and departments with helping her secure the opportunities—and countless others, including a chance to participate in a summer institute focused on data analytics and supercomputing.

Oda said Dr. Kelly Treece, director of the Criminology and Criminal Justice program, has been a true inspiration to her.

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“She is truly one of those professors that pushes you to do your best,” Oda said.

Dr. Rylan Chong, director of the Data Science program, has also served as a mentor.

“From an early age, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the criminal justice field,” Oda said.

“I looked at universities that had criminal justice programs in Hawai’i and the mainland and knew that I wanted to attend a university with a criminal justice program that had hands-on learning experience and a small professor-to-student ratio. I chose Chaminade because it had the qualities that I was looking for—in addition to scholarships to help cover costs.”

Oda, who is from Hilo, added that she didn’t want to attend a university too far from home.

“Through my busy schedule of academics, part-time employment, internships, clubs and organizations as well as co-operating two small businesses, my time at Chaminade has taught me how to manage my time and achieve things that I never thought I could,” she said.

“With that said, through my hard work, I have been able to be a leader and mentor others in various capacities. Through my various leadership and internship experiences, I wanted to be a role model for other students and show them hard work, networking, and exploring can take you places. I want to show other students the possibilities available while pursuing your studies.”

Oda will be wrapping up her undergraduate degree in December and then—thanks to Chaminade’s innovative 4+1 program—moving directly into the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Studies program. She plans to continue her work under Treece and with the ATF.

And of course, she’s got those two small businesses to help run. Both sell handmade crafts.

“Serving my community is my passion and that message is something that I truly take to heart,” said Oda, who is excited about passing the baton of student leadership to her peers. Oda previously served as student government president, a role she greatly valued.

“I wanted to make a positive impact on the Chaminade community through being a strong advocate for student change and fostering relationships amongst students, faculty and staff.”

Suffice to say Oda has achieved that goal—and so much more.

Photo Gallery: Thanksgiving Prayer Service

Chaminade students, faculty and staff gathered Wednesday for a special Thanksgiving prayer service.

The annual gathering allows attendees an opportunity to reflect on all they can be thankful for.

In addition to an opportunity for prayer, the service included student and other speakers.

Madison Makishima ’25, for example, addressed attendees to offer thanks for all the Chaminade community has given her—from new friends to one-of-a-kind opportunities.

“I’ve been able to develop personally and professionally at Chaminade,” said Makishima, who also read one of her favorite Bible verses during the service before wishing attendees a happy Thanksgiving.

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Bro. Thomas Giardino Plans Transition to New Role

Bro. Thomas Giardino, S.M., executive director of the Association of Marianist Universities since 2019, plans to transition out of his role after the 2024-25 academic year to pursue other Marianist priorities and initiatives.

Giardino said he planned his departure to give the association sufficient time to conduct a search and select a new executive director by July 1, 2025. Though he is stepping down, Giardino plans to remain engaged with Marianist initiatives and the association.

The Association of Marianist Universities is a ministry of the Marianist Province of the United States with a mission to support, promote and advance Marianist higher education through cooperation among the three Marianist universities—Chaminade University of Honolulu, St. Mary’s University in Texas and the University of Dayton in Ohio.

“I’m confident there are people who can fill the executive director position with fresh ideas and energy,” Giardino said, adding he looks forward to contributing in new ways.

“I hope to work on editing and translation of vital documents at the North American Center for Marianist Studies, and do some programs with them along with continuing to promote formation opportunities for the universities and the larger Marianist family.”

While a member of the Marianist general administration, Giardino led the development and implementation of the Characteristics of Marianist Education and Universities, which outline the common elements of Marianist educational philosophy.

Meanwhile, during his tenure as executive director, he launched two symposia that each attracted more than 100 participants and initiated the Marianist Education Bridge Project in collaboration with the Province Office of Sponsorship, a retreat for 40 marketing and communications professionals from the three universities and Marianist K-12 schools.

He also launched a Marianist lecture series at all three universities and established affinity groups in which employees at the three universities could share best practices, collaborate on projects and integrate Marianist principles in their units.

Building and sustaining lay Marianist communities has been a longtime priority for Giardino, who worked with University of Dayton President Emeritus Bro. Raymond Fitz, S.M., to launch the Marianist Educational Associates in 2005. Giardino expanded that initiative as a signature program for the association during his leadership.

“Formation of lay leadership in the universities is a key focus for a stable Catholic and Marianist mission and identity,” Giardino said.

“I will continue to work on this, no matter the position.”

In addition to executive director of the association, Giardino has served in other roles promoting Marianist education, including director of education for the Marianist Province of the United States, executive director of the International Center for Marianist Formation and international director of education and general assistant for education in the Society of Mary general administration.

He is a trustee at St. Mary’s University, trustee emeritus at the University of Dayton, and a previous member of the Board of Regents at Chaminade.

Giardino professed vows in the Society of Mary in 1962 and graduated from the University of Dayton in 1965 with bachelor’s degrees in theology and education. He earned a master’s degree in sociology from Duquesne University and a master’s degree in spirituality from the Catholic University of America.

Students Stage Agatha Christie Thriller

‘Love From a Stranger’ will come alive at the Black Box Theatre

You won’t want to miss the Chaminade Drama Club‘s latest production, “Love From a Stranger.”

The play, based on Agatha Christie’s short story “Philomel Cottage,” makes its debut on Nov. 15.

Club treasurer and set designer Caleb Cloud ’25 said the play showcases gender-blind casting.

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“There’s a lot of diversity and inclusion within the Club,” he added.

“Love From a Stranger” is psychological thriller about an heiress (Cecily Harrington), who rejects her longtime fiancé (Nigel Lawrence) in favor of a charming man (Bruce Lovell) she barely knows.

Zana Kimura ’25 is the production’s stage manager and also takes on the role of Mavis Wilson.

Kimura, who transferred to Chaminade in her second semester, said she joined the University’s Drama Club because she wanted to meet new people.

That’s exactly what she’s done, Kimura said, building friendships while staging the production.

Rian Sydney Pagtakhan provides stage direction to Willow McKay and Emily Cooper.
Rian Sydney Pagtakhan provides stage direction to Jules Mattes, left, and Willow McKay.

The three-act play unfolds when Harrington is shown packing up her London flat. Enter Bruce Lovell, a charming stranger who sweeps her off her feet.

In a whirlwind romance, Harrington abandons her job, friends and fiancé to settle in a country cottage. However, her newfound “love from a stranger” is not what it seems and in an astonishingly tense final scene, Harrington discovers the ghastly truth of her new love.

Rian Pagtakhan ’25, the production’s director who also plays the role of Auntie Loo-Loo, said the play required creativity—and lots of hard work.

“I’m proud to say that every Club member has contributed to this production,” Pagtakhan said.

“We found an old sewing table and a rotary phone for the set in the props room,” Cloud added. “We looked for pieces that would represent London in the 1930.”

Reflecting the clothing of that era, the costumes were designed by Randrielle Yola ’26.

“We had to get creative,” Yola said. “But we did pretty well.”

SHOW DETAILS:

Where: Vi and Paul Loo Theatre, Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Black Box Theatre
When: Nov. 15-17, from 7-9:30 p.m.
Tickets: Click here to reserve your seat

Cast Members:
Willow McKay—Cecily Harrington
Micah Sanders—Nigel Lawrence
Jules Mattes—Bruce Lovell
Rian Sydney Pagtakhan—Director/Auntie Loo-Loo
Alexia Mae Eleccion—Dr. Gribble
Evan Cromer—Stage Manager/Hodgson
Emily Cooper—Ethel
Zana Kimura—Stage Manager/Mavis Willson

Technical Design:
Brielle “Lilinoe” Lo—Sound Designer
Lavelle White—Lighting Designer

Set Design:
Caleb Cloud—Set Designer
Greta Bornmann—Set Designer

Costume Designer:
Randrielle Yola

Celebrating Culture: Pacific Island Review

Students spent months rehearsing for the big night

Hantricia “Hanny” Lipai ’28 and Charisma Mitipok ’28 said they were excited—and a little nervous—when they made their debut performance with the Micronesian Club at the annual Pacific Island Review on Chaminade’s Sullivan Family Library Lawn. By the end of the night, they were both all smiles.

“I can’t wait to do it again next year!” Mitipok exclaimed.

Pacific Island Review, a signature fall event at Chaminade, celebrates Pacific Island culture, food and entertainment. The gathering Nov. 8 was no exception, with attendees cheering on performances from student cultural clubs, including Ka Ipu Kukui Me ka ‘ie ‘ie (the Hawaiian Club), Taotao Marianas Club, the Micronesian Club, The Filipino Club, and Lumana’i O Samoa (the Samoan Club).

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Students spent months preparing for the big day, practicing in the evenings and on weekends.

Director of Student Engagement Joanna Cecilio had been watching those rehearsals and said she was incredibly proud of all the student participants.

She noted the event highlights Chaminade’s rich diversity.

“Pacific Island Review allows our community to smile, laugh and be joyful together,” added Student Engagement Coordinator Andrew Ancheta ’21. “It is through this event that the life of our cultural diversity on campus is manifested into something tangible, something moving and powerful.”

  • Wearing traditional Marshallese earrings, necklaces and grass skirts, the Micronesian Club entered the Sullivan Family Library Lawn with a lyrical chant.
    Wearing traditional Marshallese earrings, necklaces and grass skirts, the Micronesian Club entered the Sullivan Family Library Lawn with a lyrical chant.
  • Nikki Katahara-Tom '25 won the crowd over with her graceful hula dance.
    Nikki Katahara-Tom ’25 won the crowd over with her graceful hula dance.
  • Wearing tradition Filipino clothing, members of The Filipino Club performed traditional dances mixed in with an unexpected rap song.
    Wearing tradition Filipino clothing, members of The Filipino Club performed traditional dances mixed in with an unexpected rap song.
  • Dancers from the TaoTao Marianas Club had the crowd cheering.
    Dancers from the TaoTao Marianas Club had the crowd cheering.
  • The men of the TaoTao Marianas Club opened with a song in praise of their ancestors and culture.
    The men of the TaoTao Marianas Club opened with a song in praise of their ancestors and culture.

Sano Tanna ’26 previously performed at the event and this year volunteered at a food station.

Tanna said the event brings the Silversword and surrounding community together.

“I see a lot of area residents attend,” said Tanna. “It’s a long tradition.”

Mitipok, who performed with the Micronesian Club, said she joined the cultural organization to meet fellow Micronesians at Chaminade and celebrate her culture.

“I wanted to learn more about my culture and connect with other Micronesians on campus,” she said.

The Hawaiian Club was first to step on the Sullivan Family Library Lawn at the event.

Nikki Katahara-Tom ’25 wowed the crowd with a solo hula that paid tribute to the ʻāina.

“I’ve been participating since I was a freshman,” said Tom, a Nursing student. “This event allows us to share our culture and, at the same time, learn about other Pacific Islanders’ cultures.”

The Hawaiian Club was followed by the TaoTao Marianas, with the men opening with a stirring song, and an homage to their ancestors and land. “We share our love of being back on the island,” said Isaiah Atalig ’25, president of the TaoTao Marianist Club. “This event offers a glimpse into our ’ohana at Chaminade.”

He added, “This night is what we all look forward to and talk about all year.”

Preview Day Draws Future Silverswords

Chaminade’s president says the event spotlights what makes the University unique

Scores of future Silverswords converged on campus November 2 for Preview Day.

The open house is designed to introduce prospective students and their families to the University’s programs, campus life, and vibrant community. Attendees experienced firsthand what it might be like to be a Silversword, with a full day of activities, information sessions, and interactive experiences.

“We were thrilled to open our campus to so many enthusiastic future Silverswords and their families,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D. “Preview Day was a wonderful opportunity to share what makes Chaminade unique—from our supportive community to our innovative academic programs.”

Throughout the day, students and families explored Chaminade’s more than 60 undergraduate majors and minors and 13 graduate programs. Faculty members and support staff were on hand to answer questions while a cadre of student ambassadors conducted tours of campus.

The day also featured interactive activities, such as a mock crime scene investigation and a nursing simulation and skills lab tour. Science enthusiasts enjoyed an open house of Chaminade’s fully-equipped labs, engaging with fields like biology, chemistry, and environmental science.

Among those who came out for Preview Day was Hawai’i high school senior Paolo Vietor, who hopes to attend Chaminade to study nursing. He said the open house helped solidify his choice of universities and also allowed him to learn about Chaminade’s other offerings, including extracurriculars.

“I think this could be the school for me,” he said.

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Kaisah Kaaihili is interested in furthering her career working with young children and was drawn to Chaminade’s education and school counseling programs. “Lots of information, lots of resources, I didn’t know how much scholarships they had,” she said, of the Preview Day event.

“Sword Sessions” offered at Preview Day provided themed presentations, including a financial aid overview that explained the FAFSA process and offered practical advice on financing higher education.

Attendees also learned about Chaminade’s Hawaii Guarantee tuition match, which ensures graduates from Hawai’i high schools entering as freshmen pay the same annual tuition rate as resident undergraduates at UH-Manoa, along with a path to graduate in four years.