Uncategorized

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

After completing my MBA, I went back to work for Bank of America and was admitted to their MBA Global Commercial Banking Training program, which opened up opportunities to become a client manager on large commercial accounts. This program was highly competitive, accepting only nine candidates each year, and it provided me with invaluable training and experience. Having a higher educational degree opened many doors for my future in senior leadership roles. It was a strategic investment that not only equipped me with advanced knowledge and skills, but also enhanced my credibility and marketability in the corporate world. This foundational experience paved the way for my eventual transition to the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), where I could blend my financial acumen with my passion for cultural initiatives.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you, either academically or socially?

One pivotal moment during my graduate studies was when my Marketing Professor pulled me aside during my first quarter. She emphasized the importance of graduate school and advised me to refocus my efforts. At that time, I was juggling a full-time job and the demanding task of opening the Nordstrom Ala Moana store, which had led me to neglect my schoolwork. She pointed out that I was on track to getting a B in her class, while my goal was a 4.0 GPA. She also recommended an opening in Career Services that she thought I would be perfect for. I was hired and spent the rest of my grad school years working full-time for Chaminade. This role not only helped me stay on track academically, but it also provided me with a supportive community where I made lifelong friends, such as Allison Jerome, who is now the Dean of Students at Chaminade. The friendships and professional connections I built during this period have had a lasting impact on my life.

How did your Chaminade education shape your perspective and personal growth?

Graduate school taught me the importance of dedication and the long-term benefits of investing in myself. I vividly remember a moment in my economics class when I finally grasped the complexities of international treasury and government data. Prior to this, despite working in the banking industry and attending meetings with government entities, I often found the terminology and concepts confusing. This newfound understanding not only boosted my confidence but also enhanced my performance at the bank. My education at Chaminade made me realize that applying myself diligently to my studies could significantly benefit my future career and personal development.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating, I have consistently sought opportunities to further my professional development. I have taken online leadership courses with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) to stay current with best practices in fostering inclusive work environments. This summer, I will be starting a leadership program with Central Washington University’s Women in Leadership initiative. These ongoing educational pursuits reflect my commitment to continuous learning and growth, ensuring that I remain effective and progressive in my leadership roles.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Going to graduate school was a personal goal and a significant lifetime achievement for me. I have always believed that higher education is key to unlocking greater possibilities in the workforce. Obtaining my MBA was a strategic move, allowing me to pause my career temporarily to invest in myself. This investment has paid off by expanding my career options, and enabling me to achieve senior leadership positions, such as my current role at MoPOP. The discipline, knowledge and connections I gained through my education have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory and personal growth.

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

My master’s challenged me to grow professionally as both a writer and communicator.  I really grew into a more confident, public speaker, and honed my analytic writing capability.  I also was able to shape my leadership style that would show in my military service and classroom teaching approach at two public high schools: Moanalua High School and Waianae High School.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you, either academically or socially?

My master’s thesis really pushed me to leave my comfort zone. The fact that it was a non-classroom type of event that I had entire control over—minus the deadlines—was exciting. It took some grit, a lot of coffee and many weekends at the library to get through it, but the finish line was worthwhile.

How did your Chaminade education shape your perspective and personal growth?

Personally, I didn’t know I was capable of balancing being a new father, working full-time and going to school in the evenings. This opportunity helped me mature professionally, and gain greater confidence. After graduating from Chaminade, I enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard, where I would then pursue officer candidate school. Completing my master’s at Chaminade with a 4.0 GPA not only helped me academically, but it helped me to believe in myself that I could transition to the military where I would later serve for 14 years.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

When I have an opportunity to mentor or speak at public events, I certainly do. I also attend many defense industry technology conferences where I have an opportunity to meet and hear from thought leaders in technology.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?
Although I started my master’s to gain an advantage on pursuing law school, it opened up opportunities for me in business. I’ve  been fortunate to lead sales organizations, grow my network and travel internationally.

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

The education I received was monumental and pivotal in being able to start my first business in the nonprofit sector. It gave me the skills and expertise needed to obtain contracts, to provide mental health and substance abuse services, and to grow the business. It also grew my communication and leadership skills that transcend all career paths. Being in the real estate investment industry now, the skills I learned while enrolled in the counseling psychology program are abundantly relevant, especially when it involves people skills—being able to connect and listen to them. At the end of the day, all you have in life are relationships. No matter the career path, relationships come first, and the product or service you offer is a byproduct of those relationships. Counseling psychology taught me how to connect, have empathy, and ultimately help people heal. In real estate, that is what we do. People come with a problem, and we help provide an answer but ultimately, it’s a human connection that allows walls to come down, trust to be built, and the solution achieved.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you, either academically or socially?

I made lifelong friendships. I met my best friend and business partner at Chaminade, Chelsea Torres. Also, I graduated alongside my parents, Michael and Yvonne Haxton. There’s nothing more special than doing life—academics, business and community alongside family and friends.

How did your Chaminade education shape your perspective and personal growth?

It allowed me to grow in self-confidence. I was nurtured by amazing people like Dr. Darren Iwamoto, who gently pushed and challenged me to be the best version of myself. We all have those professors who stick with you, and he is definitely one of them. Sometimes their belief gives you the confidence to believe in yourself.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Absolutely. I am a huge proponent of education and self-development. I have since attended many seminars, masterminds and mentorships, in addition to personal development through counseling and life coaches. A lot of entrepreneurship is learning and developing, and continually becoming and implementing. The key to success is never giving up and being comfortable being uncomfortable. The way to decrease stress and fear is to continually learn and implement. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Education has been a part of my development during the majority of my life. I went straight from high school into the Chaminade bachelors’ program, and then directly into the master’s program. I am still learning today through mentorships and courses. It taught me discipline, structure, perseverance and responsibility.  Education put me in situations where I was uncomfortable, for example, doing presentations and public speaking, and being able to overcome and push through. All of these are lifelong values that I carry and are actions that are necessary for success in all aspects of life.