As part of the annual Founders’ Week festivities, three members of the Chaminade community were honored Wednesday with Heritage Awards for their strong commitment to Marianist values.
The recipients were recognized at a special Founders’ Day Mass at the Mystical Rose Oratory.
The Heritage Awards are conferred by the Chaminade Rector’s Office annually to celebrate Marianist values of service in education. Nominations are submitted from across the University.
Dr. Koreen Nakahodo, an assistant professor of English, received the Chaminade Award for embracing Marianist values in education and undertaking “the intellectual life as a form of service in the interest of justice and truth.”
Several colleagues nominated her for the honor, saying that her work with students, across campus and with the community is impressive and impactful.
“I have been privileged to work with Dr. Nakahodo for more than two decades,” one Chaminade professor wrote in his nomination letter.
“She is a true example of Fr. Chaminade’s dictum that our progress is like a brook, caressing obstacles, gaining depth and breadth in the fullness of time, the brook overflows the obstacles and moves forward. She is persistent, undaunted by obstacles.”
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Academic Affairs Program Manager Jackeline Sanqui received the Marianist Award for her unwavering support of Chaminade’s vision and mission. Marianist Award honorees are full-time support staff members who live Marianist values of family spirit, hospitality and openness.
In a nomination letter, one of Sanqui’s supervisors said she creates a welcoming, inclusive environment for everyone. “Jacky’s commitment to Chaminade’s mission extends beyond her immediate responsibilities. She is a vital support in programs that serve underserved populations,” the nominator wrote, adding she is a vital member of the Chaminade family.
Finally, Noelani Tugaoen ‘25 was honored with the Founders’ Award, which is given to a Chaminade student who has exhibited the Marianist values of generosity, respect and a spirit of faith. Recipients are also recognized for serving as positive role models for the Silversword family.
Tugaoen is a student ambassador, active in the Ka Ipu Kukui Me Ka ‘ie ‘ie (Hawaiian) Club, and Campus Ministry. A Chaminade staff member who nominated Tugaoen said the senior is a true servant leader who “wants people to feel loved and know they each have a place.”
The nominator continued, “In every sphere she has been in, Noe has always been a vibrant and joyous person, constantly looking for ways to meet students and their families, and bring a sense of belonging to everyone present. The atmosphere changes when Noe enters a space.”
Founders’ Week officially kicked off Jan. 17, with a special lei draping ceremony and prayer service at the Father Chaminade statue on the University’s Front Lawn.
The week celebrates the founders of the Marianist Family, Father Chaminade, Mother Adele, and Marie-Thérèse de Lamourous.