Catholic

How will we be the change?

June 4, 2020 by University Communications & Marketing

President Lynn Babington’s Statement Regarding Unrest Across the Nation

To the Chaminade community:

We mourn the tragic death of George Floyd and join those around the nation, and the globe, in calling for an end to the institutional racism that has plagued our nation for far too long.

The pain and anguish of protesters gathering peacefully in US cities is palpable and justified.

It is also familiar. And in their chants we hear not only George Floyd’s name but the names of countless other African-Americans and people of color who have been killed.

Breonna Taylor. Ahmaud Arbery. This must end.

Silence is not the answer to racism, to bigotry or to violence. It never has been. Now is the time for a dialogue, for action—and for change.

Now is the time to speak the names of those we’ve lost so they will not have died in vain.

As a Marianist educational institution, we are proud to stand for social justice. It is written into our mission.

And we believe our work to end racism begins at home. Chaminade University has built a safe and inclusive campus community, condemning discrimination. Over the years, we have sought to examine and amend our policies and ensure that all voices are at the table.

There is always more to do, however, and this moment in our nation’s history should give all of us pause. We must ask ourselves: how will we meet this crisis and seek to right the wrongs that were decades in the making?

How will we be the change?

It is everyone’s kuleana to root out racism wherever it is found. To be intentional, active, urgent and unified in addressing the systemic inequities and injustices that we face as a nation.

The images on the news and across social media should also fuel our resolve: the time for real change is here. This is too important to put off any longer.

We can begin on a different path forward by condemning as a nation and as citizens these violent acts and offering to support one another in building a new future together.

Many of you are struggling right now with the strongest emotions: you are outraged, you are grieving, you are afraid. These feelings are both incredibly difficult and absolutely understandable.

Know that your campus community is here for you at this time and always.

We are here to listen, to learn and to lean into the hard work of racial reconciliation together. As one ‘ohana, we will be part of the solution.

Sincerely,
Lynn Babington, Ph.D.
President, Chaminade University

Co-Curricular Awards 2020

May 7, 2020 by University Communications & Marketing

Each year, the Co-Curricular Awards are presented to outstanding members of the Chaminade community who go above and beyond to make our campus a better place. While the awards are typically presented at a dinner ceremony, this year’s 15th Annual Co-Curricular Awards were presented via video announcement due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Three notable awards carry on the legacy of individuals who have provided exemplary service to the Chaminade ‘ohana—Bro. Joseph Becker, Rev. David Schuyler and Fr. Stephen Tutas. These awards recognize individuals and organizations who continue to go above and beyond to serve their campus community and carry on the spirit of their namesake.

Bro. Joseph Becker was one of the founders of Chaminade University of Honolulu and was highly regarded as the chairman of the English department. He was known for his humor and bringing the fun to campus. The Bro. Joseph Becker Awards of Excellence are presented each year to Chaminade students who display exceptional leadership through involvement in co-curricular activities. These students embody the characteristics of leadership: initiative, motivation, character, integrity, service and scholarship. They are actively involved in the campus community and contribute their time and energy to the improvement of student and campus life. This year brought two freshmen recipients of the award: Jacqueline Martinez and Eri Leong. The sophomore recipient was Josephine Iose, Melissa De La Cruz was the junior recipient, and Cami Naomi Keli’inui received the award as a senior.

Rev. David Schuyler became the fifth president of Chaminade University, after serving the institution as dean and vice president. His career was spent in service to Marianist educational institutions as a teacher, mentor and advisor. The Rev. David Schuyler Advisor of the Year Award is awarded each year to a staff, faculty member or administrator who advises a student organization and consistently helps identify, encourage and support students in their campus involvement and leadership opportunities. This person expands the horizons, skills and value systems of Chaminade students through their support and guidance. The 2020 award was presented to professor Hans Chun for his work advising the Korean Club.

Fr. Tutas was a teacher and administrator at Chaminade in the 1950s, and served as the director of the Marianist community in Honolulu. He spent 16 years serving communities in Hawaii. The Fr. Stephen Tutas Program Award for Excellence recognizes a student program that has demonstrated exceptional creativity, planning and execution and has significantly contributed to the quality of life at Chaminade. This year’s award was presented to Tales & Treats, a service learning program where students from Luminai O Samoa, Micronesian Club and Marianas Club work with the Hawaii Literacy Program to teach low income housing students the skills of literacy.

Congratulations to all of the 2020 awardees—your commitment, dedication and service are what make Chaminade so unique and special.

2020 CO-CURRICULAR AWARDS

AWARDS PRESENTED BY THE OFFICE OF STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND LEADERSHIP (OSAL)

Bro. Joseph Becker Awards of Excellence
Awarded annually to a freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior who displayed exceptional leadership through involvement in co-curricular activities.

Freshman: Jacqueline Martinez, Communication ‘23 and Eri Leong, Communication ‘23
Sophomore: Josephine Iose, Psychology ‘22
Junior: Melissa “Ezzie” Dela Cruz, Biology ‘21
Senior: Cami Naomi Keli’inui, Biology ‘22

Bro. Elmer Dunsky Outstanding Student Organization Award
Awarded annually to a student organization that has gone beyond the bounds of their membership by helping to create a positive campus environment for all students and made an outstanding contribution to Chaminade University as an organization.

Residence Hall Association

Fr. Stephen Tutas Program Award for Excellence
Awarded annually to a student or student organization who has exceptional creativity, planning, and execution of a university program which significantly contributed to the quality of life at Chaminade.

Tales & Treats (Lumanai O Samoa/Micronesian Club)

Rev. David Schuyler Advisor of the Year Award
Awarded annually to a member of faculty, staff or administration who advises a student club/organization and consistently helped to identify, encourage, and support students in their leadership development and campus involvement, repeatedly demonstrated a commitment to the community and its needs and expanded the horizons, skills and value systems of Chaminade students by providing support and guidance within co-curricular life.

Dr. Hans Chun (School of Education and Behavioral Sciences)

AWARDS PRESENTED BY ATHLETICS

Male Athlete of the Year
Awarded annually to a student-athlete who represents Chaminade University in a prideful and honorable manner during his season.

Tyler Cartaino, MBA program (Men’s Basketball)

Female Athlete of the Year
Awarded annually to a student-athlete who represents Chaminade University in a prideful and honorable manner during her season.

Rachel Reedy, Nursing 2021 (Women’s Volleyball)

Silversword Award
Recognizes an act or series of acts associated with an athletic activity that represents the spirit of the Marianist philosophy to include sportsmanship, integrity, honesty, truthfulness and respect for self and others.

Rachel Arakawa, Biology ‘20 (Women’s Soccer)

AWARDS PRESENTED BY CAMPUS MINISTRY

Campus Ministry Award
Awarded to a student who has participated in all areas of Campus Ministry (liturgy, community service and retreats). This person is an all-around amazing member of the Campus Ministry ‘ohana.

Angel Felise-Vitale, Historical & Political Studies ‘20

Liturgy Award
Awarded to an individual who has willingly volunteered his or her time and talent to contribute to the quality and spirituality of our weekend and special liturgies and prayer experiences.

Mica Mariano, Nursing ‘20
Martina Segura, Environmental Studies ‘23

Retreat Leader of the Year
Acknowledges the overwhelming commitment and dedication shown by a retreat leader in creating communities of support, faith, and love on campus.

Andrew Trapsi, Biochemistry ‘20
Samantha Diaz, Elementary Education ‘20

Service Award
Acknowledges outstanding servant leadership in the area of restorative justice and service for the people and the `āina (land) of Hawaii.

Eddie Adachi, Environmental Studies ‘21
Andrew Ancheta II, Biology ‘21

AWARDS PRESENTED BY THE OFFICE OF ADVISING AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Distinguished Tutor of the Year
Acknowledges the outstanding commitment and dedication shown by a tutor to serve the Chaminade University of Honolulu community.

Keahealailani Takushi, Biochemistry ‘21

Outstanding Orientation Leader
Awarded to an Orientation Leader who has displayed exemplary performance of their duties.

Charlynn Adversalo, Psychology ‘20

Outstanding Peer Mentor
Awarded to a Peer Mentor who has displayed exemplary performance of their duties.

Marvin Trantham, Business Administration ‘20

AWARDS PRESENTED BY RESIDENTIAL LIFE

Residence Hall Association Award of Excellence
Awarded to a Resident Hall Association Representative who is a role model for other representatives, has demonstrated strong leadership skills and who positively impacted the organization and residential community.

Tanisha Taualai, Criminology and Criminal Justice ‘22

Resident Assistant Award of Excellence
Awarded to a Resident Assistant who has a high-level of maturity, exhibits the ability to work as an individual community leader as well as an active participant on the Residential Life team.

Marianna ‘Aulani Oka, Environmental Studies ‘23
Shane Cobacha, Psychology ‘22
Cayanne Gabaylo, Biology ‘22
Dominic Coffey, Criminology and Criminal Justice ‘21
Mystique Gaspar-Kekume, Criminology and Criminal Justice ‘21
Jemima Telesia Nafatali, Accounting ‘21
Jason Nowak, Criminology and Criminal Justice ‘21
Tihani Rivera, Forensic Sciences ‘21
Andrew Trapsi, Biochemistry ‘20

AWARDS PRESENTED BY DEAN OF STUDENTS

Dean of Students’ Special Recognition
Recognizes a student who in his or her time at Chaminade has continuously contributed to the betterment of the overall community.

Sierra Murobayashi, Criminology and Criminal Justice ‘21

Frederick K.K. Kauhane, Sr. Aloha Spirit Award
Awarded annually to students who exhibit a humble, cheerful, and generous spirit; a dedication to fostering a sense of `ohana around campus and the ability to raise other’s spirits by consistently improving the environment around them.

Kiso Skelton, Historical and Political Studies ‘20

Henry Halenani Gomes Alaka‘i Award
Recognizes a Chaminade undergraduate student who has demonstrated excellence in leadership and service to the Native Hawaiian community.

Pohaikealoha Artates, Environmental Studies ‘20

2020 Heritage Awards

January 24, 2020 by University Communications & Marketing

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.

New Student Retreat

October 10, 2019 by University Communications & Marketing

Before the fall 2019 semester got into full swing, Campus Ministry treated incoming and transfer students to a weekend retreat on the beach to make sure their welcome to Chaminade was done right.

The retreat August 30 and 31 was held at a beach house in West Oahu and included lots of opportunities for play and fun — along with some chances for reflection, spiritual growth and relationship building.

Jeremiah Carter, director of Campus Ministry at Chaminade, said the gathering was designed to make sure students who are new to the Chaminade ‘ohana feel supported on campus.

“I think it’s one of the most important aspects for college students,” he said.

Carter, who started at Chaminade over the summer, is working to broaden the events Campus Ministry offers in hopes of attracting more students — along with members of the faculty and staff.

He said the retreat helped students prioritize their goals for the year and get an introduction to the Marianist philosophy, which is central to Chaminade’s mission. He said it was also a way to build friendships that have the potential to last through their college experiences — and beyond.

Jacqueline Martinez ’23 was among the incoming students who attended the retreat.

Martinez, who is pursuing a degree in Communications, said the weekend allowed her to get to know her classmates better and hear from older students who are doing exciting things at the University.

“The part I enjoyed the most was how inviting the retreat staff was. Their attitudes were the main reason the retreat felt so fulfilling,” she said.

Martinez added that she’s looking forward to Campus Ministry’s next retreat.

So is International Trade student Christopher Grant DeVera Diego ’23.

Diego said the retreat was just good fun, complete with spooky stories and a bonfire.

“The retreat made me open up to many new people,” he said, “and see a side of people who I didn’t really know yet.”

2019 Hawaii Catholic Teacher of the Year

June 25, 2019 by University Communications & Marketing

Ernest Mendoza notoriously puts his students first.

In his 27-year tenure for St. Anthony School in Maui, one of our sister Marianist institutions, he has impacted the lives of countless students. Whether it’s staying late to help a student on an assignment, inspiring students to find their faith in God or coming in on a weekend to fix things around campus, his legacy runs deep.

He was a natural choice for this year’s Teacher of the Year award, presented by Chaminade University and Hawaii Catholic Schools.

Ernest Mendoza accepting his check for Hawaii Catholic Schools teacher of the year

“When we looked at Mr. Mendoza’s commitment to his students and service to his school, and the incredible testimonials we received from his students, alumni and colleagues, it was clear he deserved this award,” says Dale Fryxell, dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Chaminade University and member of the selection committee. “Mr. Mendoza exemplifies everything that this award stands for—a celebration of the effect teachers have on the lives of their students.”

Mendoza received the $1,000 award, made possible by the generous support of John and Mary Lou Brogan, at the annual Hawaii Catholic Schools Recognition Luncheon on May 22.

Our own Dr. Helen Turner, dean of the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and vice president of innovation at Chaminade University, was the event’s keynote speaker. She addressed the audience about innovation in Catholic schools.

A sincere thank you to Hawaii Catholic Schools for making these accolades possible. We look forward to our continued collaboration and partnership.

From Student to Servant: Chaminade Graduates Commit to a Year of Service in Ohio

June 10, 2019 by University Communications & Marketing

In May, Chaminade University celebrated the graduating class of 2019. Degree in hand, most graduates will go on to secure jobs and begin their careers. Others will continue to pursue higher education through graduate school. And a few will put their professional endeavors on hold and dedicate their post-graduate life to service.

Claire Riggan and Andrew Ines, 2019 Chaminade graduates, are part of the few.

At the end of July, Riggan and Ines will say goodbye to friends and family for a year of unknown challenges and transformative experiences in Dayton, Ohio, as volunteers in the Marianist Partners in Urban Leadership, Service and Education (PULSE) program.

PULSE is a post-graduate initiative geared toward graduates with a desire to grow as servant leaders, learn about social justice issues and positively impact an urban community. Volunteers commit to one or two years of service to a local Dayton nonprofit organization where they gain real-world experience in their field of study while being immersed in the community they’re aiding.

“To be able to serve the community, it’s best if you live in the community,” Ines said.

This is the first time the 22-year-old Kalihi native will be living away from home and he couldn’t be more excited. Ines and Riggan will be living in intentional community with 8-12 other PULSE volunteers, most of whom they don’t yet know from the two other Marianist universities, St. Mary’s University and University of Dayton.

Ines first heard about PULSE through Campus Ministry in 2017 when two of his friends from Chaminade were participating in the program. After hearing about the impact that they were making on the Dayton community and gaining first-hand insight into the program, Ines knew that when his senior year came along, he would apply.

“I’m most excited to learn about other people and social issues that are being dealt with in Dayton, just to broaden my perspective on the world,” Ines said.

The business administration major and computer information sciences minor will be putting his degrees to good use at his nonprofit assignment, Brigid’s Path, where he will be volunteering full-time as a communications and marketing intern. Brigid’s Path is a recovery center for newborns suffering from opioid addiction, which is a common issue in Dayton. Ines’ primary roles will be to connect with donors and spread the word about Brigid’s Path through its website and social media.

In addition to working at their assigned nonprofits, Ines and the other PULSE volunteers are expected to share meals and meet for prayer, live in solidarity with the marginalized Dayton community, participate in a Marianist formation program held every week and share their experience with a spiritual mentor.

Ines hopes to walk away from his year in Dayton with a refined ability to empathize with others without any biases. He expects that his time at Brigid’s Path will help to solidify his future career goals, and is currently considering using his degree for community outreach once his year of service comes to a close.“When I bring the spirit of aloha from Hawaii to Ohio, I hope that people will get the chance to have their voices heard and people will get the chance to receive opportunities that they probably never thought they could,” Ines said.