Chaminade University of Honolulu

Faculty

Faculty Recognized as New Academic Year Begins

“Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire.“

 – William Butler Yeats

People are what make Chaminade University an incredible community, committed to our Marianist foundation and mission. At the annual Fall Faculty Institute this past Wednesday, faculty were recognized for their excellence in teaching, leadership, collaboration and dedication to their students and to each other. The following Chaminade University awards were presented to: 

CUH Excellence in Teaching Award

Wera Panow-Loui, MBA

Senior Lecturer, College of Business, Innovation & Technology

Wera Panow-Loui is an example of the type of learning that makes Chaminade unique—where students are challenged to go beyond theory, to demonstrate what they can do and, importantly, how they can contribute to the benefit of our communities. She contributes exceptional value to the student experience through experiential learning and real-world community impact,  data-driven, student-centered learning that elevates student engagement, and lasting educational impact through innovation and professional preparation.

Fr. John F. Bolin Excellence in Scholarship Award

Sr. Malia Wong, DMin

Senior Lecturer, College of Arts & Sciences

The Fr. John F. Bolin Excellence in Scholarship Award recognizes a full-time faculty member for achieving excellence in scholarship. Sister Malia Wong has been actively engaged in interfaith work for more than two decades, serving as a bridge builder between religious traditions, cultures and communities. She has served as a keynote speaker, retreat facilitator, guest lecturer, and presenter for numerous respected organizations, including the Hawaii Association of International Buddhists, the International Buddhist Women’s Conference, the Hawai‘i Council of Religions for Peace, the numerous Foundations, and other local and international faith communities. 

Dr. Joseph Allen Collegiality Award

Hans Chun, EdD

Director, School of Organizational & Education Leadership
Associate Professor, College of Education & Human Development

Over the years, Dr. Hans Chun has distinguished himself as an exceptional leader, scholar, mentor, and advocate whose contributions have profoundly strengthened the university community. His work consistently reflects a rare combination of visionary leadership, compassion for others, and unwavering dedication to faculty, students, and institutional advancement. Having served as Faculty Senate President since 2024, Dr. Chun has increased faculty participation and attendance at faculty senate meetings. Through this, he has cultivated an atmosphere where faculty feel heard, respected, and valued. What distinguishes Dr. Chun most, however, is the humanity with which he leads. He consistently recognizes and celebrates the efforts of faculty, staff, administrators, and students, fostering a culture of collegiality and mutual respect. 

In addition, 2026 Provost Leadership Awards were presented to seven well-deserving members of the Chaminade faculty and staff community for their dedication, character, and leadership. Award recipients included Dr. Hans Chun, Dr. Masahisa Yamaguchi, Dr. Alexis Barroga, Dr. Koreen Nakahodo, Dr. Carlos Gutierrez and Abigail Hurgo.

A beautifully carved paddle was also presented to Dr. Janet Davidson as an expression of deep gratitude for her leadership and commitment to advancing Chaminade’s strategic priorities. 

Chaminade University Welcomes Amir H. Toosi as Newest Dean

When Amir H. Toosi was 18 years old, he was tasked with writing down the place that he would choose to live. He wrote: Hawaiʻi. 

The first time he visited Hawaiʻi was on his honeymoon in 2004. The second time was in 2024 with his wife and daughter to look at colleges. And the third time was in 2026 when he was named a finalist for the Dean of Chaminade Universityʻs College of Business, Innovation & Technology.

Now years later, he has been named dean of Chaminade University’s College of Business, Innovation & Technology, bringing nearly three decades of leadership experience in higher education, business consulting, and academic program development to the univeristy.

Toosi joins Chaminade after serving for 14 years as dean of the Division of Business and Security Studies at Rivier University in New Hampshire. Throughout his career, he has led academic innovation, expanded academic programs, and built partnerships that strengthen student learning and workforce development. 

“I am excited and thrilled to be joining the academic leadership of Chaminade University and look forward to building relationships within the University and throughout the broader community,” Toosi said. “Hawaiʻi has always been a special place for my family and me, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue growing the outstanding programs at Chaminade.”

At Rivier University, Toosi also served as program director and professor, overseeing academic affairs and contributing expertise in risk and crisis management, learning management systems, and program administration. He previously held leadership positions at Herzing University and American InterContinental University.  His applied approach to business practices is an ideal fit for Chaminade as well. 

“Dr. Toosi brings a wealth of experience as an innovative academic leader and a deep commitment to student success,” said Chaminade Provost Dr. Lance Askildson.  “His collaborative leadership style and vision for business education will strengthen our College of Business, Innovation & Technology as we continue preparing graduates to lead with purpose in an evolving global economy.”

In 2025, Toosi received the President’s Good Steward Award from the Education Alliance for New Hampshire and was recognized with the Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber of Champions Eminence Award.

Born in Iran and growing up throughout the United States as his father is a college professor, Toosi earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University, a Master of Business Administration from Heidelberg University, and a Doctor of Business Administration in Management from Argosy University in Chicago.

Chaminade’s College of Business, Innovation & Technology offers undergraduate programs in Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Economics, Entrepreneurship, International Business, Marketing, and Sport and Event Management. The College also offers a 12-month Professional MBA program designed for working professionals and is home to the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program and the Economic Education Center for Excellence.

Dr. Babington Honored for Leadership, Service

The Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC) honored Chaminade University President Dr. Lynn Babington on May 19 at its 72nd annual gala at The Kahala Hotel & Resort, presenting her with the Paul S. Bachman Memorial Award. The award recognizes outstanding Hawaiʻi leaders for distinguished contributions to strengthening relations between the United States, Asia and the Pacific.

For decades, PAAC has been dedicated to educating and empowering Hawaiʻi students through programs that promote leadership development, cross-cultural learning and global engagement, with a special emphasis on Hawaiʻi’s role in the Asia-Pacific region. More than 200 guests attended the gala, which included tributes and remarks honoring Babington’s leadership and service.

“Dr. Babington is an exceptional community leader committed to providing quality, accessible higher education,” wrote U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono in the gala program. “I extend my congratulations to Dr. Babington and thank her for her contributions to the social, cultural and economic development of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Islands.”

Since being named president of Chaminade University of Honolulu in 2017, Babington has worked to foster a caring and academically rigorous environment that encourages excellence, expands relevant and industry-informed programs, and creates opportunities for hands-on learning and personal growth.

“It is my profound honor to accept the Paul S. Bachman Memorial Award, recognizing leaders passionate about strengthening ties between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region through educational opportunity,” Babington said in her remarks. “Mahalo to the Pacific & Asian Affairs Council for this truly singular recognition. I also extend my deepest gratitude to the entire Chaminade University ʻohana, whose unwavering support of our mission, unmatched innovation and creativity, and embrace of our social justice initiatives are crucial to our students’ success.”

During the program, Kalani High student Jayden Tran shared how PAAC opened doors and transformed his life by exposing him to global issues and opportunities for personal and professional growth. He completed the PAAC Global Issues Certificate, a United Nations-certified program recognizing student leadership on some of today’s most pressing global challenges.

“PAAC changed my personal values by making me more appreciative of my own circumstances and helping me realize how important it is to help others and the impact that I can have,” Tran said.

The award was presented to Babington by PAAC Board Chairman Warren K.K. Luke and PAAC Board Member Dr. Lance Askildson. PAAC Executive Director Niki Shishido and PAAC Board President-elect Bryan Luke also spoke about PAAC’s impact in engaging more than 100,000 students in international issues and global citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world. Hawai’i State Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi also presented Babington with a certificate of distinction.

Congratulations to Dr. Babington on this well-deserved honor recognizing her commitment to education, service and creating opportunities that make a lasting difference for students and communities across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific.

Faculty Appointed to State Psychology Board

Sean Scanlan, Ph.D., Director and Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, has been appointed to the Hawai‘i State Board of Psychology, joining fellow faculty member Jeffrey Stern, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, who also serves on the board.

The Hawai‘i State Board of Psychology operates under the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) within its Professional and Vocational Licensing (PVL) Division. The board is responsible for overseeing the licensure of psychology professionals across the state, helping ensure that practitioners meet standards established to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

At a time when the need for accessible, high-quality mental health care continues to grow in Hawai‘i and across the nation, the board plays a critical role in maintaining a strong, qualified workforce of licensed professionals.

In this role, Dr. Scanlan will contribute to the review of licensing applications, renewals, and compliance matters, while also engaging in discussions on legislation, policies, and regulatory issues impacting the profession. Dr. Stern continues to bring valuable expertise to the board through his ongoing service.

“Dr. Scanlan’s appointment, alongside Dr. Stern’s continued service, reflects the strength of our Clinical Psychology faculty and their commitment to advancing ethical, high-quality care,” said Chaminade University President Lynn Babington, Ph.D. “We are proud to see Chaminade faculty helping shape policies that strengthen professional standards and serve our broader community.”

Dr. Scanlan’s appointment underscores Chaminade’s ongoing dedication to academic excellence, community impact, and leadership in the behavioral health field.

Celebrating National Nutrition Month with Proclamation and Health Partners

Chaminade University brought together healthcare professionals, students, and community partners this evening on the steps of Clarence T.C. Ching Hall to celebrate National Nutrition Month and a formal proclamation issued by Gov. Josh Green recognizing the importance of nutrition in building healthier communities across Hawaiʻi.

The proclamation marked a collaborative moment between Chaminade University and local health leaders, including registered dietitians from across our state, nurses, and academic partners such as University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Attendees participated in an official group photo highlighting the shared commitment to advancing nutrition education, prevention, and whole-person health.

In Hawaiʻi, health is something built  together. Nutrition is foundational to that effort, reflecting our shared values of connection, stewardship, and caring for our communities across generations. This proclamation not only recognizes the work being done across Hawaiʻi but also reinforces our responsibility to educate, collaborate, and serve our communities,” said Dr. Melissa Cline, Program Director of Nutrition and Dietetics and Assistant Professor at Chaminade University of Honolulu.

The event underscores Chaminade University’s continued leadership in developing future healthcare professionals through its Nutrition & Dietetics programs. With a focus on interdisciplinary education and community engagement, the university is expanding opportunities for students to enter high-impact fields that address chronic disease, health equity, and preventive care.

Chaminade also recently announced the addition of its B.S. in Nutrition degree program. The program will go beyond human nutrition and explore social impacts of food, sports nutrition, current diet trends, behavioral nutrition, food science, and sustainable food systems.

National Nutrition Month®, observed each March, is an annual campaign that promotes informed food choices and healthy eating habits. Chaminade’s recognition reflects its growing role in supporting Hawaiʻi’s health workforce and fostering partnerships that extend beyond the classroom.

The celebration concluded with informal networking among attendees, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in advancing public health initiatives across the islands.

Criminal Justice program awarded $1 million grant for new training institute

Legal and law enforcement professionals from throughout the Pacific region will soon enjoy additional training and support thanks to one of Hawai‘i’s senators in Washington.

Chaminade University’s Criminology and Criminal Justice program, part of the School of Education & Behavioral Sciences, is receiving a $1 million federal education grant. The money will be used to establish a new institute for training criminal justice professionals from the Pacific Islands, especially South Pacific island nations and territories.

The new institute will be housed at Chaminade.

Kelly Treece, Associate Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice and director of the program, said the name of this new institute hasn’t been decided yet. Whatever it’s called, the new institute will serve as “a hub for training and development for every aspect of the justice system,” Treece said.

“There’s nothing like it in the whole state and of course nothing like it in all the South Pacific.” Treece said the funds will be used to offset costs for professionals to travel to Hawai‘i to receive specialized training “so it makes it much more affordable.”

Chaminade University is home to the state’s oldest and largest criminal justice education program. The program already hosts students from Guam, Saipan, and other Pacific islands.

Chaminade University’s Criminology and Criminal Justice program is renowned throughout the Pacific.

The grant was secured as an earmark to a spending bill thanks to the legislative work of U.S. Senator Brian Schatz. Schatz has been serving in the Senate as Hawai‘i’s senator since 2012.

The $1 million grant is part of a larger appropriations package that Senator Schatz negotiated for the state as whole.

“Despite some challenges in Washington, we secured nearly $34 million in new earmark funding for Hawai‘i and expect more to come,” Schatz said in a statement. “These earmarks will give local non-profits and infrastructure projects more resources to serve communities across Hawai‘i.”

His office said additional earmarked funds for the state could be announced within weeks.