Chaminade University of Honolulu

Institutional

Chaminade bestows Heritage Awards

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To recognize their exceptional contributions in personifying the Marianist values, Dr. Darren Iwamoto, Maritel Suniga and Kobe Ngirailemesang ’23 have been honored with this year’s Heritage Awards. It’s a distinction that Brother Ed Brink says “shows the breadth and impact an individual may have on campus and in the community.”

Dr. Lynn Babington presents Dr. Darren Iwamoto with his Chaminade Award.

A testament to that mission is Dr. Darren Iwamoto, Associate Professor in Education and Behavioral Sciences, who received this year’s Chaminade Award, given to a faculty or staff member who has exhibited a continuous commitment to Marianist values in education.

“Yes, these awards are designed to honor individuals,” says Brink, Vice President of Mission and Rector, addressing the Founders’ Day Mass attendees. “But these awards are also meant to remind all of us the mission of the university and the importance of trying to live out that mission on a daily basis.”

“I truly try to live the Marianist Education Core Values and receiving this award is special because it tells me that I’m on the right path,” Iwamoto says. “This award motivates me to continue serving our students in Family Spirit and I’m blessed to be a part of an organization that truly lives its mission and values.”

Bro. Ed congratulates Kobe Ngirailemesang for his 2023 Founders’ Award.

Sharing the same sentiment is Kobe Ngirailemesang ’23, a graduating senior, who was presented with the Founders’ Award, which recognizes a student who has exhibited a commitment to Marianist values by outstanding generosity, respect for others and spirit of faith.

“Personally, this award is about being of service to others whenever it is possible,” Ngirailemesang says. “I never thought of helping others as an obligation. I really just enjoy the company of others, regardless of it being for work/class or not. I am truly honored to have received this award.”

Draped in a colorful ring of lei, Maritel Suniga received the Marianist Award.

Meanwhile, Payroll Specialist in the Business Office, Maritel Suniga was honored with the Marianist Award, conferred to a staff member who has exhibited a continuous and extraordinary commitment to the vision and mission of Chaminade University while drawing others into the collaborative community.

The three honorees were recognized at a special ceremony on Jan. 18, following the Founders’ Day Mass at Mystical Rose Oratory. The event was the culmination of a series of gatherings meant to celebrate not only the founders of the Marianist family—including the university’s namesake—but the characteristics of a Marianist education and the values and mission that are central to Chaminade’s identity.

“We gather today to be inspired,” says Brink, during the award ceremony portion of the Mass, “and to hopefully recommit ourselves to be the best member of this community that we can be.”

Founders’ Week celebrates Chaminade’s roots

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It seems to me that we must not become discouraged if we encounter some obstacle in the way of the necessary change. Never has change been done, and never will it be done, without difficulty.”

Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, Letters, March 23, 1833

In 1955, Jonas Salk’s polio vaccine was declared safe and effective. Rosa Parks was arrested after refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger. The United States began its involvement in the Vietnam conflict. And St. Louis Junior College was established and would eventually change its name to Chaminade College.

“Founders’ Week gives us the opportunity to honor our founders, including the university’s namesake Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, Venerable Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon and Venerable Marie Thérèse Charlotte de Lamourous,” says Chaminade University President Dr. Lynn Babington. “Central to Father Chaminade’s legacy is his commitment to forming schools as a principal means for transforming society. Today, we perpetuate that tradition and remain committed to a holistic education of the whole person.”

Throughout the week of Jan. 16-21, events are planned to acknowledge Chaminade’s past founders and presidents, who have all significantly contributed to the Marianist heritage of respecting both faith and reason as means to the truth and justice.

“Founders’ Week allows us to affirm our Marianist spirit and carry forward the Marianist values,” says Bro. Ed Brink. “In 1883, eight Marianists arrived aboard the steamboat S.S. Mariposa, but only five would be assigned to organize the fledgling St. Louis College with the other three departing for St. Anthony’s on Maui.”

Honoring the Past

Father Marty Solma once again led staff and students in prayer.

On Tuesday afternoon at 12:30, Chaminade and Saint Louis School communities are invited to gather on the Front Lawn at the Oval for a Lei-Draping Ceremony at the Father Chaminade statue. The annual tradition precedes the week’s festivities, including the Marianist Founders Day Mass on Wednesday, where students, faculty and staff are invited to gather as one Chaminade ‘Ohana in prayer, and the Servant Leadership Day on Saturday.

Embodying Marianist Values

During the Founders’ Day Mass, Bro. Brink will announce this year’s Heritage Awards honorees. To recognize their exceptional contributions in personifying the Marianist values, Dr. Darren Iwamoto, Maritel Suniga and Kobe Ngirailemesang will be honored with this year’s Heritage Awards. It’s a distinction that Bro. Brink says “shows the breadth and impact an individual may have on campus and in the community.”

This year’s awardees are:

  • Dr. Darren Iwamoto, Associate Professor in Education and Behavioral Sciences will receive the Chaminade Award, given to a faculty or staff member who has exhibited a continuous commitment to Marianist values in education;
  • Maritel Suniga, Payroll Specialist in the Business Office, will receive the Marianist Award, given to a staff member who has exhibited a continuous and extraordinary commitment to the vision and mission of Chaminade University while drawing others into the collaborative community;
  • Kobe Ngirailemesang, a graduating senior, will receive the Founders’ Award, given to a student who has exhibited a commitment to Marianist values by outstanding generosity, respect for others, and spirit of faith.

Sowing Forward

On Saturday, Founders’ Week culminates in service.  Faculty, staff, and alumni will join students to outwardly express their Marianist Catholic values together. From sorting out clothes and household items at the Institute for Human Services (IHS) to refurbishing furniture at Habitat for Humanity, from cleaning up the campus to cleaning out an ancient fishpond in Heeia, Chaminade volunteers devote their energy into doing good work across the island.

This year, the Servant Leadership Day will take place at the Women’s & Family Shelter at IHS.

Join us throughout Founders’ Week to celebrate the Marianist future.

Founders’ Week Recap Video

The Father Chaminade Statue is draped with lei every Founder’s Week celebration.

Grand Re-Opening of Silversword Café

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Freshmen Araceli Kee and Ro Razavi gave their thumbs-up of approval. Alumni Elijah Abramo ’21 misses the old booths, but understands the logic and appeal of high-tops. And as students, staff members and faculty filed into the renovated Silversword Café this past Monday, many commented about the modern décor, vibrant color pallete and contemporary furnishings.

Students dig into the great food options now available.

“It’s fancier,” remarked Kee, while inspecting the new high-top tables and sleek stools. Razavi countered, saying that he thought it was more modern and also cooler. Prompted two years ago by a flood in the café, renovations for the space got underway in earnest during the 2022 summer. According to Allison Jerome, Chaminade Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students, the work was supposed to be completed by Fall 2022, but city permitting delays set back the re-opening date.

“They had to dig a new trench, which caused more permitting delays” Jerome noted. “In the end, here we are, and it’s finally done.”

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Silversword Cafe is a hot spot to hang out in.

The menu, too, has been tweaked by Aramark executive chef Joshua Bonds, who arrived on island Jan.4 to help establish consistency and culinary protocols. In addition to select pizzas, a salad bar, cupcakes, a deli menu and hot entrees, the Café also features an Action Bar durning dinner service.

“The menu is designed to feature the island’s flavors and local recipes,” explained Bonds, who helps Aramark clients across the nation with their dining programs. “And I can tell you with certainty that no other campus that Aramark services will have Portuguese sausage, shoyu chicken or hapa rice as part of its menu. These recipes are definitely unique to Hawai‘i.”

Faculty and staff reach impressive milestones 

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The mood was anything but Bah-Humbug. In fact, it was the complete Dickensian opposite. Soap bubbles floated through the air, greeting guests as they climbed the steps to the Sullivan Library Lawn. Staff, faculty, family and friends competed in friendly games of cornhole. Music blared and the atmosphere was convivial. Even the Grinch (Richard Kido) showed up in a bright pine green suit wearing his Santa Claus hat. 

Meanwhile, in the background, Christine Denton and her merry elves—Clair Weichhaus, Lisa Trumbull, Lloree Gamiao and Makana Craig—could be seen scurrying around in preparation for the evening’s festivities, laying out trays of food, stacking beverages into coolers and arranging koa bowls in anticipation of the annual Years of Service ceremony.

‘Twas an event that not only marked Chaminade’s annual Christmas party but also afforded the university the chance to recognize the years of service of some of its faculty members and staff. Among them was Joshua Thinsew ’12, who quipped that he now has twins: a five-year honor and now one for 10. Holding up his koa bowl with gold inscription, the decade-long IT specialist said he was going to proudly place this one next to his other. 

President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., was also recognized for her fistful of years of service, remarking that she is proud to serve Chaminade. “Joining the Chaminade ‘ohana has been a tremendous honor and privilege, and I’m grateful for all of your hard work and commitment to our educational mission,” Dr. Babington said. “My commitment to our students, faculty and staff remains steadfast, and I look forward to continuing to lead with compassion, vision and a community-first approach.”

Christmas Party Slideshow
Celebrating Years of Service

Below is the complete list of Chaminade employees celebrating their years of service milestones:

Five-Year Award

  • Lynn Babington, President
  • Jonathan Baker, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Hilary Corcoran, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Guanlin Gao, School of Business and Communication
  • Blendine Hawkins, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Kahoalii Keahi-Wood, Center for Strategy & Innovation
  • Makepa Matin, Facilities
  • Travis Mukina, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Claire Nishiguchi, School of Humanities, Arts and Design
  • Katelynn Perrault, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Lorin Ramocki, School of Nursing and Health Professions
  • Claire Reddy, ’19, Chaminade University Montessori Lab School

10-Year Award

  • Deven Bukoski, ’18, Human Resources & Legal Affairs
  • David Carter, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Denise Cooper, School of Nursing and Health Professions
  • Gail Grabowsky, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Abby Halston, ’05, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Kahala Kabalis-Hoke, ’18, Athletics
  • Chrystie Naeole, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Pamela Silva-Patrinos, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Mark Speck, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
  • Joshua Thinsew, ’12, Client Services
  • Aaron Williamson, School of Business and Communication

15-Year Award

  • Dayna Bareng, Residential Life
  • Derek Chung, Network and Desktop Services
  • Darren Iwamoto, ’98, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Hieu Nguyen ’09, Institutional Research
  • Helen Turner, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics

20-Year Award

  • Ronald Becker, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Clifford Bieberly, School of Business and Communication
  • Janet Davidson, Vice Provost of Academic Affairs
  • Philamerico Dela Cruz, ’10, Management Information System
  • Richard Kido, School of Business and Communication
  • Sharon Lepage, Sullivan Family Library
  • Tomasa Pillos, Campus Maintenance

25-Year Award

  • Collin Lau, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences
  • Tracy Trevorrow, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Sticking Point: Pinning Ceremony marks rite of passage for graduating nursing students

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“Let us never consider ourselves finished nurses … we must be learning all of our lives.”
Florence Nightingale

2022 Nursing Pinning cermeony

Minutes after completing his final exam, Nainoa Gaspar-Takahashi ’22 began to muse about his remarks for the time-honored Nursing Pinning Ceremony, a rite of passage for soon-to-be graduates or graduating Nursing School students.

“After all the obstacles, especially when COVID happened, I can finally see the end of the tunnel,” says Gaspar-Takashi, referring to the ritual ceremony. “It has been a long journey for me and I can finally breathe a sigh of relief.”

A total of 49 nursing students received their stoles and pins during the ceremony, which occurs at the end of a student’s program in a school of nursing, and signifies the completion of this level of education and an official initiation into the profession. 

Gaspar-Takahashi points out that this official observance is different from the commencement that he will participate in May 2023, adding that many of his peers share the opinion that this ritual is even more significant for them. For the Kaneohe native, the Pinning Ceremony symbolizes that a student is now formally a member of the sisterhood and brotherhood of nurses, and is ready to serve the community as a healthcare professional. 

“Nursing has often been referred to as a ‘calling’ and this Pinning Ceremony is based on the history of this respected profession,” Gaspar-Takashi says. “I now feel like I’m now on the frontline of helping people get better.”

Nursing student receiving her stole at the Nursing Pinning ceremony

In Chaminade’s School of Nursing and Health Professionals version of the Pinning Ceremony, it’s a student’s family member—and not faculty like at some celebrations at other schools—who presents the Chaminade-blue stole and offers words of congratulations. 

“It’s very meaningful for the student to have a parent or loved one place the stole around their neck,” says School of Nursing and Health Professions Dean, Rhoberta Haley, Ph.D. “My late mom was a nurse and when she attended my Pinning Ceremony, she wore hers. It’s very symbolic and we take great pride in our pins.”

The history of the Pinning Ceremony dates back to the 12th century when the Crusaders were cared for by the Knights of the Order of the Hospital of St. John the Baptist. When new monks entered the order, they vowed to serve the sick soldiers in a ceremony during which each monk was given a Maltese cross badge.

The modern ceremony started in the 1860s when Queen Victoria awarded Florence Nightingale the Red Cross of St. George to recognize her service as a military nurse during the Crimean War. To share the honor, Nightingale —whom many deem the founder of modern nursing—later presented medals of excellence to her brightest nursing students.

In 1916, the Pinning Ceremony became standard practice for new graduates in the United States as a way to welcome them into the profession. While once reserved for outstanding students, today it includes all students who successfully complete their nursing education.  

The last time that guest speaker Bridget Lai spoke at a Pinning Ceremony was her own in May 2001. “It’s been a long time, but when I received the invitation from Dean Haley, not only was I thrilled and excited, but all the memories of that day–over 20 years ago—came rushing back to me,” said Lai, Hawaii Pacific Health’s Nursing Education Manager. “While I absolutely value my degree, the Pinning Ceremony spoke directly to me and the personal calling that I answered to become a nurse. Your pin tells the world—you can do anything, four words that have stayed with me, and grown and evolved with my professional nursing practice.”

In addition to the pinning, some ceremonies often include a candle- or lamp-lighting to symbolize the nighttime care Nightingale gave to wounded soldiers by candlelight. Graduates also recite the International Pledge for Nurses. 

“We take this oath seriously,” Gaspar-Takahashi says with sincerity. “And now I look forward to being present as an employee and not a student, and making a difference in a patient’s care.”

Gaspar-Takahashi’s education, though, isn’t quite over. His next classroom will be the emergency room at Straub Medical Center, where he will be the graduate nurse before officially obtaining his Registered Nurse license.

“This nursing program instilled in us the Marianist values of service and compassion,” Gaspar-Takahashi asserts. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given. I was not only taught the nursing academy but I learned a lot about life lessons.”

Chaminade University and United Nations Host Pacific Regional Sustainability Conference

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Chaminade University and the United Nations will host a ground-breaking regional sustainability conference this week at the university campus to discuss climate change and the potential impacts to the Pacific region.

The “XIX Steering Committee Meeting Of The CIFAL Global Network” runs from Wednesday, November 30 to Friday, December 2, with the three-day conference bringing together world and local community leaders on goals, education and solutions to the global warming crisis. It will include seminars and workshops by experts from the United Nations and others around the world on climate change, global warming and sustainability.

This regional conference hosted by Chaminade University follows the UN COP 27 Climate Change Summit held earlier this month in Egypt, in which 200 participating countries came together to help resolve the climate change issue.

Seminars and workshops will allow timely and important discussions on a variety of topics related to leadership, health and wellbeing, education, and sustainability in Hawai‘i as well as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. These goals include climate action, advocating for the oceans, reducing inequalities, and developing programs that pursue peace, justice and strong institutions.

Conference attendees will participate at this week’s Hawaii conference either in-person or virtually. The conference will kick off with an evening reception on Tuesday, November 29 at the university with opening remarks by event co-organizers United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNITAR executive director Nikhil Seth and Chaminade University provost Dr. Lance Askildson. Hawaii Governor-Elect Dr. Josh Green is also scheduled to speak during the opening reception.

Earlier this year, Chaminade and the United Nations launched a new Pacific region training and research center to provide leadership development opportunities to tackle these urgent global issues. The university’s Centre International de Formation des Autorités et Leaders (CIFAL) Honolulu is the first and only one of 24 international United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) centers to represent the Pacific area.

The Pacific region training center will provide innovative leadership development opportunities and tackle issues such as climate change, poverty, clean water and energy and other urgent global issues. The university’s CIFAL Honolulu Centre is the only international United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) center located in the Pacific region.

“Our school is honored to partner with the United Nations in hosting this exciting, groundbreaking conference to deal with the critical and timely issue of climate change,” said Chaminade University president Dr. Lynn Babington. “Our state has been an amazing leader in studying climate change and in innovating solutions that include using indigenous knowledge and practices along with new technologies. Sharing these ideas with the rest of the world will only benefit all of us in dealing with this global crisis.”

Tuesday’s reception from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday’s sessions from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. are open to the public. To learn more about the new Chaminade United Nations learning center, go to: chaminade.edu/cifal-honolulu.

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About Chaminade University
Chaminade University of Honolulu believes in the power of education to drive positive change, broaden perspectives and deepen our understanding of one another. With an emphasis on transformative service-learning experiences, we prepare students to serve as tomorrow’s leaders, inspiring and challenging them to use their minds and their hearts to help build stronger and more just communities. We are proud to serve as Hawai‘i’s only Marianist university, and rely on these values to guide us in delivering a high-quality education with an individualized approach and a focus on excellence, innovation and change. Established in 1955, we offer more than 30 undergraduate and graduate programs, including doctoral degrees in education, psychology and nursing practice. Learn more at chaminade.edu.

UNITAR CIFAL Honolulu Centre at Chaminade University
CIFAL Honolulu Centre is part of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). It is the 21st international training and research center of the CIFAL Global Network and the only center located in the Pacific Region. CIFAL Honolulu aspires to empower Pacific peoples to create a sustainable future that reflects their values and the priorities of their communities.