Chaminade University of Honolulu

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US ED Under Secretary Nicholas Kent Visits Chaminade

The US Department of Education Under Secretary Nicholas Kent visited Chaminade University this past Tuesday, impressed by the innovations and programs that the University offers as well as the high caliber of instruction.

As a first-generation college student and a respected education policy expert with more than two decades of experience, Kent serves as the nation’s top federal official for higher education. As Under Secretary, Kent oversees the Department’s postsecondary education, career, technical, and adult education, and federal student aid programs. This includes managing the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio and the over $30 billion Pell Grant program.

During his three-hour visit to Chaminade, he met with the Montessori Preschool Lab School, Data Science, Analytics & Visualization Lab, the Nursing Simulation Center, the Interior Design Studio Lab, and the Forensic Sciences  “Crime House” Lab. Each visit showcased the distinctiveness and rich experiences that Chaminade provides to students.

He also exchanged ideas with senior leadership of Chaminade during an informal lunch in the President’s Conference Room. Learning about Chaminade’s Catholic Marianist foundation and why being the only private Catholic institution of higher education in the Pacific is vital to our region was another highlight of his tour.

Provost Dr. Lance Askildson presented Kent with a gift from the University to commemorate the auspicious visit. The Chaminade community is thankful for his interest in our campus and programs during his visit to Hawai’i and looks forward to continuing the momentum of providing students the skills, knowledge and experience to further their careers and community.  

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.

2026 Golden Pine ‘Apple’ Awards

This year’s Teacher of the Year and Administrator of the Year were announced at the Hawaii Catholic Schools’ Recognition Luncheon, held at Natsunoya Tea House on May 8.

The apple has long been a symbol of educators and knowledge. The Golden Apple Awards program was created to honor exceptional individuals dedicated to teaching in Catholic schools, while the pineapple symbol adds a local spin to the award. The Augustine Educational Foundation gifted each awardee’s school $1,500 for staff development, and each recipient also received a check for $500.

Dr. Dale Fryxell, dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Chaminade University, presented the awards.

Dr. Glenn Medeiros of St. Louis School received this year’s Golden Pineapple Award as Hawaii Catholic Schools Administrator of the Year.

“For nearly 25 years, Glenn has dedicated himself to Catholic education and has spent the last 11 years leading Saint Louis School as the longest-serving president in the school’s 180-year history,” Fryxell said.

Annicelia Agbayani of Our Lady of Good Counsel School received the Golden Pineapple Award as Hawaii Catholic Schools Teacher of the Year.

“Beyond her outstanding teaching, Mrs. Agbayani is deeply committed to faith formation, weaving prayer, kindness and Catholic values into the everyday experiences of even the youngest learners,” Fryxell said.

Most Reverend Clarence “Larry” Silva, Bishop of Honolulu, served as the keynote speaker for the event. He led the opening prayer and shared part of his journey to becoming bishop of Honolulu.

“About this time, 21 years ago, it was still a secret that I was going to be the bishop of Honolulu,” Silva said. “I found out May 5, 2005, but the public announcement wasn’t until May 17.”

Exiting Diocesan School Board members were applauded for their support of Catholic education.

Mahalo to Fr. Frankie De Los Reyes, Mrs. Betsey Gunderson, Dr. Elizabeth Park and Msgr. Terry Watanabe ’73, who served as chair of the board.

“I am so grateful for my 20 years of continuous Catholic school education,” Watanabe said. “Chaminade was so fabulous because you had tremendous access to the teachers, faculty and staff.”

New members Fr. Lusius Nimu and Mr. Mike Hernandes were recognized for joining the board.

Congratulations to the 2026 Golden Pine “apple” recipients!

Chaminade University’s 68th Commencement Ceremony

Friends and family gathered to celebrate their loved ones at Chaminade University’s 68th annual commencement ceremonies at the Waikīkī Shell on May 8 and 9.

This year’s undergraduate commencement address was delivered by Hawaiʻi Governor Josh Green, M.D., who offered graduates both congratulations and realistic advice about the future.

“The curvy road ahead should be exciting for you, but it is unpredictable,” Green said.

“Embrace the fact that this curvy road has gotten off to a great start for you tonight through your degree,” he continued.

More than 500 students with unique journeys and stories walked across the stage during the two-day celebration. Among them was undergraduate student speaker Trachelle M. L. S. Iwamoto ’26, who reflected on her experience at Chaminade.

“As a first-generation graduate, Chaminade has provided me with wonderful opportunities of growth within myself,” Iwamoto said. “Who knew this small-town girl would be able to break statistics, travel the world, transform into an outspoken woman, and be humble yet bold at the same time.”

Iwamoto received her Bachelor of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice on Saturday.

At the ceremony for master’s and doctoral students on Friday, Retired Army General David A. Bramlett addressed graduates, encouraging them to harness the values they learned at Chaminade.

“You carry with you the reputation and the future of Chaminade University,” Bramlett said. “Use what you have learned from the classroom, whether on campus or online.”

Friday evening’s student speaker, Lauren Brooke Remular ’26, recognized the hard work and perseverance of her fellow graduates.

“Today is not just a celebration of our achievements,” Remular said. “It is a recognition of our capacity, who we have become, and who we are prepared to be.”

Remular earned her Master of Arts in Teaching on Friday. She reminded graduates of the lessons instilled in them throughout their education, from integrity and kindness to imagination and innovation.

Most Reverend Clarence “Larry” Silva, Bishop of Honolulu, was the recipient of an honorary Doctor of Letters degree. Silva serves as the spiritual and legal leader of the Roman Catholic Church in Hawaiʻi and oversees 66 parishes and 28 mission churches across the islands.

Dr. Lynn Babington, president of Chaminade University, introduced Silva during the ceremony.

“Bishop Larry has been a partner and good friend of Chaminade University for many years,” Babington said. “Since 2010, Chaminade University has provided academic formation for men preparing for ordination to the permanent diaconate, along with their wives.”

Celine Mesiona-Perez ’22 graduated Friday with a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Studies. She first enrolled at Chaminade in 2018 and previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Sciences. In addition to being an alumna, she is entering her third year working in the university’s Office of Admissions.

“A lot of people are wondering if I’m going to do my doctorate here as well,” Mesiona-Perez said. “I love learning here.”

Teachers also appreciate the advantages of a Chaminade education. Javein Nishihara, who graduated from the Master of Educational Leadership program Friday, said the program provided experience he could immediately apply in real life.

“It was very practical,” Nishihara said. “Everything that I learned in the classroom, I see in person and in action. I think that was the strength of Chaminade.”

Nishihara said his long-term goal is to move into a leadership role at a K–12 school.

“I’m continuing at Chaminade with a doctorate in education, so I’m really excited about that,” he added.

Laica Joy Cenence earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing on Saturday. Cenence said observing her family in the healthcare field made her want to further her education. Her mother works as a caregiver and growing up in that environment, inspired Cenence to pursue the healthcare field.

After graduation, Cenence plans to study for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

“I’m already working at the hospital, but hopefully I can get into the new grad [residency] program after I take the exam,” Cenence said. “If I pass — I will pass!”

Chaminade nursing graduates achieved a 96.97% NCLEX pass rate in 2024, more than five percentage points above the national average of 91.2%.

This year also marked the graduation of Chaminade’s inaugural EdS in School Psychology cohort. This is a groundbreaking achievement for the state, as it marks the first university program to produce our “homegrown” school psychologists here in Hawaii. The cohort included ten graduates representing a significant step forward for the local educational and mental health community.

Another milestone was the accomplishment of 16 Sacred Hearts Academy students enrolled in Chaminade’s second cohort of the Early College Program, who participated in the commencement ceremony and were recognized for earning their Associates of Arts degrees. These students, many who attend Sacred Hearts Academy, were enrolled in classes at Chaminade while still in high school, and now have earned enough college credit to begin their journey at a four-year university as a third year student. 

Congratulations to all Chaminade University spring 2026 graduates!

For more information or to watch the commencement ceremonies, visit:

https://chaminade.edu/commencement/

Commencement Mass and Blessing of the Graduates

Graduates, faculty, staff, family members and friends gathered at the Mystical Rose Oratory on May 7 for Chaminade University of Honolulu’s annual Commencement Mass and Blessing of Graduates, a longstanding tradition that celebrates academic achievement while giving thanks for the journey that brought students to commencement.

The liturgy brought together the Chaminade community in prayer and reflection ahead of commencement exercises, highlighting the university’s Marianist and Catholic traditions. The Mass was presided over by Bishop Larry Silva, with Rev. Christopher Wittmann serving as concelebrant.

In welcoming those gathered, Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington offered warm congratulations to the graduates and their families, recognizing the dedication, resilience and perseverance required to complete their academic journeys. She also acknowledged the support systems that helped students reach this milestone, including faculty mentors, loved ones and the broader Chaminade community.

During his homily, Bishop Silva shared reflections on growth, change and enduring love. He spoke about how people evolve throughout their lives, often becoming very different from who they once were in earlier chapters of life. Using the example of a couple happily married for 60 years, he described how the husband continued falling in love with his wife through every stage of her life — as a carefree young woman, a mother, a professional, someone navigating middle age and eventually a senior.

Bishop Silva noted that authentic love means embracing the person someone becomes over time, even as life changes them in expected and unexpected ways. He encouraged graduates to remain open to transformation in their own lives and to recognize that growth, maturity and new experiences will continue shaping who they are long after graduation.

The message resonated with graduates preparing to begin new careers, continue their education or embark on other life paths beyond Chaminade. His reflections underscored the importance of faith, compassion and openness to change as students move into new chapters of adulthood as he and the congregation blessed the graduates.

Music throughout the liturgy was provided by the talented voices and musicians of the Mystical Rose Choir, whose performances added beauty and reverence to the celebration. The choir’s music helped create a joyful and reflective atmosphere within the oratory.

Following the Mass, graduates gathered with Bishop Silva for commemorative photographs, capturing a meaningful moment before commencement festivities continued. Students and guests also enjoyed fellowship and refreshments, including cookies hosted by Chaminade’s Office of Advancement. Thanks was extended to the Office of Campus Ministry for organizing the annual celebration and coordinating the details that made the evening possible.

The Commencement Mass serves as both a spiritual and communal tradition at Chaminade, offering graduates an opportunity to pause and reflect before officially crossing the commencement stage. Rooted in Catholic Marianist values, the celebration emphasizes gratitude, faith, service and community — ideals that graduates carry forward in their personal and professional lives.

As the Class of 2026 prepares to leave Chaminade and begin new journeys, the evening offered a meaningful reminder that education is not only about academic achievement, but also about personal growth, relationships and becoming the people they are called to be. The commencement ceremony for graduate students take place today, May 8 and for undergraduates tomorrow, May 9. Congratulations to all. 

Chaminade in HOME RUN Initiative, Education Award for Healthcare Students

University to receive $5 million over five years for education awards supporting healthcare professionals serving rural Hawaiʻi.

Chaminade University of Honolulu is participating in the statewide HOME RUN initiative, a major effort to strengthen Hawaiʻi’s healthcare workforce in rural and underserved communities through education awards, training and workforce development opportunities.

As part of the initiative, Chaminade will receive approximately $5 million over five years to support students pursuing graduate degrees in healthcare and behavioral health fields. The funding comes through Hawaiʻi’s Rural Health Transformation Program award, announced earlier this year by Governor Josh Green. The state received nearly $189 million in federal funding through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services RuralHealth Transformation Program to improve healthcare access and outcomes across rural Hawaiʻi.

HOME RUN — Hawaiʻi Outreach for Medical Education in Rural Under-resourced Neighborhoods — is designed to help recruit and retain healthcare professionals in communities facing workforce shortages. Students who receive HOME RUN education award support must commit to serving in a rural Hawaiʻi community for five years after completing their degree.

Students interested in receiving scholarship support should apply for the HOME RUN education award at the same time they apply for admission into an eligible Chaminade program.

Current eligible programs include (additional programs may be added in the near future):

  •   Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
  •   Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
  •   Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy
  •   Master of Science in Nursing
  •   Doctor of Nursing Practice
  •   Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates
  •   Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology

“This initiative represents an important investment in Hawaiʻi’s future healthcare workforce and in the well-being of rural communities across our state,” said Lynn Babington. “Chaminade is proud to help prepare compassionate professionals who are committed to serving communities where access to healthcare and behavioral health services remains limited.”

According to the Governor’s Office, healthcare services in Hawaiʻi remain heavily concentrated on Oʻahu, leaving many rural residents with limited access to specialty care, behavioral health services and emergency treatment. The initiative seeks to address those challenges by building a stronger local workforce pipeline and supporting students committed to remaining in Hawaiʻi after graduation.

The initiative aligns closely with Chaminade’s mission of service and community engagement. Through graduate programs in nursing, counseling, marriage and family therapy, and educational psychology, the university prepares students to serve diverse communities throughout Hawaiʻi and the Pacific.

The HOME RUN initiative is one of six components included in the state’s five-year Rural Health Transformation Plan, which also includes investments in telehealth expansion, emergency response systems and healthcare infrastructure modernization.

Additional information about eligibility requirements and application timelines will be released as the initiative is implemented. For more information about Chaminade’s graduate healthcare and counseling programs, visit Chaminade University of Honolulu.