Chaminade University of Honolulu

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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. 

Welcoming New Members to Boards of Regents and Governors

Chaminade University has appointed five respected business and community leaders to its Board of Regents and Board of Governors, adding a breadth of experience in business, finance, education, ministry and nonprofit leadership to the University’s governing boards.

The appointments come as Chaminade continues to expand its academic offerings, strengthen enrollment and deepen its commitment to serving Hawaiʻi and the Pacific.

“We are honored to welcome these distinguished leaders to the Chaminade community,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington. “Each brings valuable expertise, thoughtful leadership and a commitment to service that will help advance the University’s Catholic Marianist mission. We look forward to working with them as Chaminade continues to grow and serve our students and community.”

Board of Regents

Emily Fukunaga is Chief of Staff, Digital Strategy at Servco Pacific Inc., one of Hawaiʻi’s largest privately held companies. A fourth-generation Servco leader, she has held leadership roles in supply chain management, operations and strategy at Servco, adidas and DFS Group. Fukunaga serves on the boards of Servco Pacific Inc. and Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and is an Omidyar Fellow. She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Colorado College and an MBA from Columbia Business School.

Bro. Robert Metzger, S.M. has devoted more than four decades to financial leadership within the Marianist community. He currently serves as Director of Finance for the Marianist Province of the United States and Assistant for Temporalities/Treasurer for the Province. Previously, he served with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and has held numerous leadership roles within the Society of Mary, including service on the Board of Trustees at the University of Dayton.

Bro. Allen Pacquing, S.M. serves as Vice President and Executive Director of the Marianist Center of Hawaiʻi and is Director of Advising in Chaminade’s School of Education and Behavioral Sciences. A longtime Marianist educator and administrator, he has served in leadership positions at both Chaminade University and St. Mary’s University in Texas. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Chaminade College Preparatory in California and is active in parish ministry at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Honolulu.

Board of Governors

Michael Camacho ’92 is President and CEO of PFC Investments and former President and CEO of PFC Finance in Guam. A 1992 Chaminade graduate, he has spent more than three decades in banking and financial services and remains active in civic and nonprofit organizations throughout Guam, including Rotary and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Kanakolu Noa is founder and executive director of Kūkolu, a nonprofit organization that supports Native Hawaiian and Indigenous entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on women-owned businesses. She previously held leadership roles at Kamehameha Schools, where she helped advance sustainable industries and food systems initiatives. Noa also serves on several nonprofit boards and was recognized by Hawaiʻi Business Magazine as one of its “20 for the Next 20” honorees in 2023. She holds graduate degrees in Indigenous Studies and business administration.

The Board of Regents provides fiduciary oversight and governance for the University, while the Board of Governors serves in an advisory capacity, supporting Chaminade’s mission and strategic priorities through community engagement, advocacy and philanthropy.

Victoria Hanes: From Mililani to Healthcare Leadership

When Victoria Hanes ’02 arrived at Chaminade University from Mililani as an only child with aspirations of becoming a therapist, she never imagined her path would lead to the executive suite of one of Hawaiʻi Island’s largest healthcare organizations.

Today, Hanes is preparing to take on a new role as Chief Executive Officer of the Hawaii Island Community Health Center, effective Nov. 1, 2026. Earlier this year, she was also recognized by Hawaii Business Magazine as one of its “20 for the Next 20,” honoring emerging leaders helping shape Hawaiʻi’s future.

For Hanes, the journey began at Chaminade, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and discovered a community that would leave a lasting impression on her life.

“Coming from Mililani Town as an only child, I was suddenly surrounded by a vibrant, diverse group of peers from all over the world who quickly became like an extended family,” Hanes said.

She credits Chaminade with providing both the academic foundation and personal support that helped shape her future.

“Chaminade created a nurturing and supportive environment, especially for those of us living on campus, and it allowed me the space to mature into a young adult,” she said. “Those moments and lessons have stayed with me, and I will always cherish that unique period of my life.”

After graduating, Hanes continued her studies in psychology and behavioral health, earning advanced degrees while pursuing her passion for helping others. Her professional path led her to the Rural Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health Training Program at I Ola Lāhui, where she completed an internship and postdoctoral fellowship serving communities across the state.

That experience introduced her to Kailua-Kona, where she found both a professional calling and a place to call home.

In 2010, Hanes joined Hawaii Island Community Health Center as a licensed clinical psychologist. Over the next 16 years, she helped guide the organization through significant growth, serving first as Behavioral Health Department Director and later as Executive Vice President of Administration and Operations.

Today, HICHC employs nearly 500 people and provides care to approximately 40,000 patients across Hawaiʻi Island through medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and school-based health programs. The nonprofit, federally qualified health center was founded to ensure access to quality healthcare regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

“One of the most meaningful parts of my work is watching our employees grow with the health center, much like I did,” Hanes said.

Her appointment as CEO reflects both her deep institutional knowledge and long-standing commitment to community health. In her new role, she will work with the board of directors to advance strategic priorities, expand healthcare access across Hawaiʻi Island, strengthen financial sustainability and support the organization’s workforce and patient-centered mission.

“I didn’t initially set out to pursue a career in healthcare administration,” Hanes said. “My early work as a psychologist in community health centers, however, showed me both the profound impact of direct patient care and the systemic barriers that often limit access and equity.”

Those experiences ultimately inspired her to pursue leadership as another way to serve.

From a psychology student eager to help others to the leader of an organization providing care for tens of thousands of residents, Hanes has built a career defined by service, compassion and a commitment to expanding opportunity. Along the way, she has demonstrated how a passion for helping individuals can grow into a broader mission of strengthening the health and well-being of entire communities.

For more information about Hawaii Island Community Health Center, visit HICHC.org.

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/