Students spent months rehearsing for the big night
Hantricia “Hanny” Lipai ’28 and Charisma Mitipok ’28 said they were excited—and a little nervous—when they made their debut performance with the Micronesian Club at the annual Pacific Island Review on Chaminade’s Sullivan Family Library Lawn. By the end of the night, they were both all smiles.
“I can’t wait to do it again next year!” Mitipok exclaimed.
Pacific Island Review, a signature fall event at Chaminade, celebrates Pacific Island culture, food and entertainment. The gathering Nov. 8 was no exception, with attendees cheering on performances from student cultural clubs, including Ka Ipu Kukui Me ka ‘ie ‘ie (the Hawaiian Club), Taotao Marianas Club, the Micronesian Club, The Filipino Club, and Lumana’i O Samoa (the Samoan Club).
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Students spent months preparing for the big day, practicing in the evenings and on weekends.
Director of Student Engagement Joanna Cecilio had been watching those rehearsals and said she was incredibly proud of all the student participants.
She noted the event highlights Chaminade’s rich diversity.
“Pacific Island Review allows our community to smile, laugh and be joyful together,” added Student Engagement Coordinator Andrew Ancheta ’21. “It is through this event that the life of our cultural diversity on campus is manifested into something tangible, something moving and powerful.”
Sano Tanna ’26 previously performed at the event and this year volunteered at a food station.
Tanna said the event brings the Silversword and surrounding community together.
“I see a lot of area residents attend,” said Tanna. “It’s a long tradition.”
Mitipok, who performed with the Micronesian Club, said she joined the cultural organization to meet fellow Micronesians at Chaminade and celebrate her culture.
“I wanted to learn more about my culture and connect with other Micronesians on campus,” she said.
The Hawaiian Club was first to step on the Sullivan Family Library Lawn at the event.
Nikki Katahara-Tom ’25 wowed the crowd with a solo hula that paid tribute to the ʻāina.
“I’ve been participating since I was a freshman,” said Tom, a Nursing student. “This event allows us to share our culture and, at the same time, learn about other Pacific Islanders’ cultures.”
The Hawaiian Club was followed by the TaoTao Marianas, with the men opening with a stirring song, and an homage to their ancestors and land. “We share our love of being back on the island,” said Isaiah Atalig ’25, president of the TaoTao Marianist Club. “This event offers a glimpse into our ’ohana at Chaminade.”
He added, “This night is what we all look forward to and talk about all year.”