Chaminade University of Honolulu

Institutional

Students Reflect on MBA Experience

Graduating cohort members are excited to apply their new skills

Embrace the process—and cherish the time you have with your cohort.

That was a common piece of advice members of the Professional MBA graduating class had for incoming MBA students at a special Aloha Event on campus. The Sept. 14 event provided incoming and outgoing students an opportunity to share laughs, stories and, of course, some pearls of wisdom.

After more than two decades of being in the hotel and entertainment industry, Connie Kramer ’25 decided to pursue her Professional MBA at Chaminade, saying it had been a lifetime goal.

“Being in the program jarred my interest in academia,” says Kramer, who hopes to continue her Chaminade education by pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership for Adaptation and Change. “It crept up on me, even though academia is in the fabric of my family.”

Designed in an innovative, accelerated format, the one-year Professional MBA aims to advance the skills of those who already have years of business experience in their respective industries. The degree puts a strong focus on strategic decision-making, career advancement and entrepreneurial innovation.

Completing the Professional MBA program are, from left, Jon Watase, Connie Kramer, Gustaf Soderholm, Jacob Murphy, Lauren Hamrick and Stacey Robinson.
Completing the Professional MBA program are, from left, Jon Watase, Connie Kramer, Gustaf Soderholm, Jacob Murphy, Lauren Hamrick and Stacey Robinson.

Chaminade offers a Professional MBA along with a traditional two-year MBA program.

A defining feature of the 12-month curriculum is its “lockstep” structure, which means that all students take the required courses together—as a cohort. Lauren Hamrick ’25 said that helped her build her confidence, along with relationships that she hopes to keep as she advances her career.

“It’s amazing to look back to see what we’ve learned and how to apply those theories into real life circumstances,” she said.

A farmer and small business owner, Jon Watase ’25 said that with the help of the Professional MBA program, he was able to expand his website, grow his company’s presence and participate in the Made in Hawaii Festival. He also learned about accounting principles and strategic decision-making.

Learn more about Chaminade’s MBA programs by clicking here.

In a “Shark Tank”-style presentation, Watase even pitched his idea to a panel of professors and won a business competition. “I actually received funding, which helped my business grow,” Watase said.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without being a part of this cohort.”

Graduating students said one of the biggest benefits of the Professional MBA is its one-year timeframe.

Additionally, classes are held on alternating weeks and supplemented by online coursework, offering flexibility. “The faculty is amazing,” added Stacey Robinson ’25, adding that you can also learn lots from your peers “who will help you see the bigger picture.”

Another attractive selling point of the Professional MBA program is an international trip that’s full of hands-on learning opportunities. “The international field experience in Japan was the biggest seller for me,” said Kramer, who was recognized with the Outstanding Student Award. “We met with so many consequential leaders and had so many thought-provoking conversations.”

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

‘We Need to Talk’: Scholar on Civil Discourse

Dr. Timothy Shaffer spoke on the importance of civil discourse in today’s polarizing times

As the nation marked the anniversary of 9/11, civil discourse scholar Dr. Timothy Shaffer led an engaging conversation at Chaminade to underscore the importance of disagreeing agreeably in polarizing times.

“We are navigating tensions in the past that are still unrecognizable,” Shaffer told a packed lecture hall of students, faculty and staff members and others. “What happens when rhetoric becomes reality?”

Shaffer, inaugural Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Chair of Civil Discourse and director of the SNF Ithaca Initiative in the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration at the University of Delaware, said institutions of higher education offer spaces for sharing ideas, finding common ground, understanding new perspectives and even passionately disagreeing—with mutual respect.

In his lecture, “We Need to Talk: Civil Discourse in Partisan and Polarizing Times,” he told attendees engaging in differences is critical—even essential in a democracy—and that it is absolutely appropriate to challenge one another, as long as it’s done in a fair way. “We have what I call, weak civility, which provides us a code of polite conduct or mode of behavioral management,” Shaffer said.

WATCH THE FULL TALK HERE:

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

Strong civility, he added, is a “robust engagement of differences that includes dialogue and deliberation.”

Shaffer’s message resonated with the audience, especially in this election year.

Biology major Jason Edric Ulep ’27 said not everyone is going to agree, but it’s critical to understand where different people stand. “Civil discourse promotes the use of voice instead of resorting to physical violence and verbal abuse,” said Ulep, after attending the lecture. “We need civil discourse, as it aims to seek a middle ground and hopefully come to a common understanding or a solution to the problem.”

In his civil discourse leadership role, Shaffer works on a number of projects, which include annual convenings of faculty and students across the United States at the SNF Ithaca National Student Dialogue and research about the role of civil discourse within public affairs education.

Victoria Perrira ’27, a Criminology and Criminal Justice major, said she walked away from Shaffer’s lecture with a new appreciation of civil discourse. “I value truthfulness and was particularly interested in learning how to effectively navigate conversations around polarizing topics,” she said.

Dr. Timothy Shaffer discusses the importance of listening in his lecture themed, “We Need to Talk: Civil Discourse in Partisan and Polarizing Times.”

Shaffer said polarization isn’t new, but how we respond to each other can be. “We have a lack of public discourse,” he said, adding, “You need to create a space for democracy where you have agency. You can build a culture grounded in civil discourse even in these partisan and polarizing times.”

University President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., said the talk was particularly timely as the nation gears up for the presidential election.

“I believe the place of a university, an institution of higher learning, is to really provide the format, the environment for discourse to take a place,” she said.

“That’s our role. … We need, and our students need, to know how to have those important conversations. to listen carefully to people’s ideas and be able to respond to them in a very civil way.”

This lecture was sponsored by Chaminade University’s Office of Mission and Rector, the Association of Marianist Universities and the Marianist Leadership Center.

Silversword STEM Camp in American Samoa

Chaminade’s I Am a Scientist program is all about hands-on learning

For the first time since its founding in 2009, Chaminade’s popular I Am a Scientist summer camp traveled thousands of miles away to American Samoa this year, setting up base at the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center in Fagaalu on the eastern shore of Pago Pago Harbor.

Rhea Jose, an outreach coordinator for Chaminade’s CIFAL Center, said the two-week health sciences boot camp was geared toward first to eighth graders. In all, 169 students from elementary to high school attended the camp, getting a taste for what scientists do every day. “We brought six large luggage, which were packed with all kinds of equipment, including microscopes, DNA extraction kits, pulse oximeters, blood pressure cuffs, pipettes, thermometers, black lights, even glitter,” Jose said.

Since its inception, the I Am A Scientist outreach program has reached 72,339 students and visited 450 schools across Hawaii, Guam, Saipan and now American Samoa, according to Lori Shimoda, I Am A Scientist founder and research associate in the Natural Sciences and Mathematics department.

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

Shimoda said before the program was launched, she had several discussions with CIFAL Honolulu Research Director Dr. Helen Turner about the need for a program that allowed keiki to experience what it means to be a scientist first-hand. “We were at a loss for how to do it,” Shimoda added, until her son—in third grade at the time—came home from school complaining that his science lessons were boring.

The reason? “They did not get to use the cool scientific equipment in the laboratory.”

The comment became the blueprint for the IAS program.

With the help of other faculty members and Silversword students, Shimoda started to take actual scientific equipment and supplies into classrooms to teach keiki about science by letting them become real scientists, using real scientific experiments and techniques.

“IAS takes real scientists and science undergraduates into the classroom so keiki can meet and talk to them about what it’s like to be a scientist, and how to go to school to become one,” Shimoda said.

“We offer a unique and fun science experience using equipment not typically found in schools. The science lessons are robust, and taught by working scientists.”

Funded by the Frederic Duclos Barstow Foundation for American Samoans, the IAS-AS camp was a unique collaboration between Chaminade and the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center, which ranks among the best medical facilities in the Pacific and is the only hospital in American Samoa.

Other partners included the American Samoa Telecommunication Authority, American Samoa Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs, the American Samoan Department of Education School Lunch Program, The National Science Foundation’s Alliance Supporting Pacific Indigenous Computing Excellence (ALL-SPICE) and CIFAL Honolulu. The camp focused on health science, a key need area.

“We remove barriers to participation by going to the school and being free,” wrote IAS-AS program staff member and Associate Professor of Biology Jolene Noelani Cogbill, in a write-up on the camp.

“We received daily comments from parents and community members, expressing their gratitude for bringing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to elementary-aged students to American Samoa, and asking if the IAS-AS program would be coming back regularly.”

They also noted how there are few educational STEM opportunities for students in American Samoa, and those that do exist are targeted towards high school students, Cogbill said in her report.

  • American Samoa students got to use various science equipment, including this mini microscope.
  • Chaminade Student Ambassador La‘a Gamiao helped students with science lab work.
  • Rhea Jose, Outreach Coordinator for Chaminade’s United Nations CIFAL Center and I Am A Scientist–American Samoa (IAS-AS) program staff member, provides one-on-one help with one of the students.
  • One of the modules focused on how easily germs spread and the importance of hygiene management. Campers were also asked to pick an environment (shoe, table, hands, etc) to swab and culture on agar plates so they could visualize “germs” on Day 3 of camp.
  • In this module students were introduced to the importance of OBSERVATION as a key part of not only the scientific process, but in our daily lives. They used their 5 senses as well as various scientific tools, such as magnifying glasses, digital and dissecting microscopes.
  • Chaminade Cultural Engagement Specialist Kahoalii Keahi-Wood assisted students with their science exercises.

Silverswords Kick Off New School Year

Kalaepohaku abuzz as new and returning students are welcome for the first day of classes

It’s natural to have the jitters on your first day of college. And while Kameron Arizumi ’28 had made a couple of visits to campus over the summer, he arrived early Monday for the first day of the new academic year—leaving himself ample time to find his first nursing class in Henry Hall.

What he found was a campus abuzz with activity.

“I am excited and looking forward to get started on my college journey,” said Arizumi. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about Chaminade’s nursing program, which is the reason I chose to come here.”

Ulupuhi Pale ’27 kicked off his sophomore year on Monday. He said he’s still considering going to seminary school after he graduates from Chaminade. He turned to his faith during the darkest days of COVID, and the Kuliouou native says he’s a strong proponent of Chaminade’s mission and values.

“I believe in an education in faith and service to the community,” said Pale, who can often be seen strumming his ukulele or playing his guitar on campus.

“Chaminade was the perfect school for me and I really like the people and the sense of ‘ohana.”

Lounging in an Adirondack chair in Zuberano Courtyard, LaVelle White ’26 said it felt good to be back on campus. Waiting for his Digital Humanities class to start, the Data Science, Analytics and Visualization major said he’d already attended two classes in the morning and was excited about the year ahead.

“Over the summer I did a couple of internships which kept me busy,” said the Army veteran. “I’m glad to be back because it means I’m getting closer to completing my degree.”

Chaminade President Lynn Babington was delighted to see the energy on campus Monday.

“It’s wonderful to welcome our new students to campus, as well as our returning students since today marks the first day of classes,” she said.

“It’s great to walk around campus and see all the smiles. Everyone is happy to be back.”

Indeed, Monday morning started off for many students with embraces and shakas, as they greeted friends they hadn’t seen over the summer break. Returning students could be heard sharing their classes for the semester, while freshmen could be seen asking for directions to various campus buildings.

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

A first-year student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program, Walter Lee was admiring the beauty of Chaminade’s campus Monday, commenting on the ocean views and slopes of Kalaepohaku. “It’s the first time I have ever stepped on this campus,” he said.

“I chose Chaminade’s PsyD program because it’s more clinical and less research. I like to communicate with people and listen with an empathetic ear.”

Taking photos and promoting Movie Night this coming Thursday, Madison Makashima ’24 can’t believe it’s her senior year. “When I first started, I remember people telling me to enjoy every moment because it goes by quickly,” she said. “I thought they were exaggerating a little bit, but now I know they were telling the truth. It’s a great feeling to be back and seeing all the familiar faces and the new ones as well.”

  • Ulupuhi Pale can often be seen entertaining during certain campus events.
    Ulupuhi Pale can often be seen entertaining during certain campus events.
  • Now a senior, Madison Makashima is excited about completing her degree in Forensic Sciences.
    Now a senior, Madison Makashima is excited about completing her degree in Forensic Sciences.
  • Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., welcome back students with a special lunch served by some of the Women's Volleyball.
    Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., welcome back students with a special lunch served by some of the Women’s Volleyball.
  • Kameron Arizumi looks forward to the beginning of his college journey.
    Kameron Arizumi looks forward to the beginning of his college journey.
  • Walter Lee is pursing his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD).
    Walter Lee is pursing his Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD).
  • Efron and Denise Lopez with their younger daughter Madeleine helped Alexis adjust to campus life.
    Efron and Denise Lopez with their younger daughter Madeleine helped Alexis adjust to campus life.

New Student Orientation a Success

Incoming freshmen got a Silversword welcome at the daylong event.

With fists pumping in the air and boisterous “woo-hoos,” freshmen walked through a gauntlet of Chaminade faculty members dressed in full academic regalia, clapping loudly as students filed out after the Academic Convocation during New Student Orientation on Friday.

Held at Mamiya Theatre, this formal ceremony officially marks the beginning of the academic year—and holds significant meaning for both the University and incoming students.

A nursing major, freshman Rex Paguirigan poses with Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik.
A nursing major, freshman Rex Paguirigan poses with Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik.

“We gather to welcome new families and students,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington, in her opening remarks at the convocation.

“You will meet new people and form new bonds, and you will laugh with each other and struggle with each other. You will learn new ways of thinking and discerning who you are and who you want to be.”

New Student Orientation is designed to acquaint incoming freshmen, transfer and exchange students with the campus and the many resources available to them—both for their academic success and personal development.

Orientation activities focus on several important areas, including the curriculum, academic advising, college success, scholarships and financial aid, campus activities, student services, student organizations, Silversword Spirit and campus facilities.

Also from Chaminade News: Students Welcomed on Move-in Day

“College is a new chapter in your life, an unwritten page in your book,” said Chaminade Student Government Association President Victoria Zembik, in her address at the Academic Convocation.

“As you embark on this journey at Chaminade, remember that college is not just about the classes you take or the grades you earn. It’s about the experiences you have, the challenges you overcome, and the person you become along the way. Embrace every moment—the highs and the lows—and know that each day is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become a better version of yourself.”

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

Starting college life successfully can be challenging. But NSO gatherings were designed to set the right tone for incoming students, encouraging them to embrace curiosity and try new experiences.

“We see in you transformation through education,” said Provost Lance Askildson. “This is an inflection point in your life. You will struggle and even fail at times to achieve your goals—and that is OK. You’ll have untold opportunities to grow, learn and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Our kuleana, our duty is to support you, to guide you and teach you. You are not alone in this journey.”

In her concluding remarks, Zembik offered some sage advice. “Every day is a new day,” she advised. “No matter how good or bad today was, tomorrow is different. Just like a sunset, no two days are the same.”

Early College: High Schoolers Get A Head Start

With Chaminade’s Early College program, students earn college credit while still in high school.

Sacred Hearts Academy junior Alana Travelstead wants to become an emergency room physician—and knows getting there will be a challenge academically. That’s why she jumped at the chance to take courses at Chaminade as part of the University’s innovative Early College program.

“This experience is preparing me for the real world,” she said, during a tour of Chaminade’s campus recently. “Getting started early on this college path can only help me. … I can do it.”

As part of a partnership, Sacred Heart students can earn an associate’s degree in liberal arts at Chaminade—technically, without ever stepping foot into a campus classroom. Students are exposed to college-level curricula and complete the necessary coursework to earn their degrees.

Interested in learning more about the Early College program? Click here.

While they take those classes at Sacred Hearts, 18 academy students were invited to Chaminade earlier this month to tour the campus and meet with faculty, staff and administrators. The students are members of the second cohort at Sacred Hearts to participate in the program.

The dual enrollment program is also offered to students at other private and public high schools.

The Early College program at Chaminade helps students save time and money, can boost their confidence, and can even help them determine what they want to pursue after high school.

“Students take Early College courses to get a taste of college, to see what college courses are like,” said Kim Baxter, Chaminade’s Early College director. “Others take the courses to see if college is even something they want to pursue.”

Mosi Manupele, 17, is grateful for the Early College program. “Not many students have this type of opportunity, which is advantageous to me,” she said. “I think earning college credit while still finishing high school will give me the advantage when I finally do attend university.”

Never miss a post! Follow Chaminade University on Facebook and Instagram.

Both Manupele and Travelstead say they’re confident that they made the right decision by participating in the dual credit program.

“I just want the college experience,” said Manapule, who dropped her elective dance class so she could have more time in study hall to concentrate on her History 101 and CUH 100 classes at Chaminade.

“I just can’t wait for the day when I do finally graduate from university.”