Darren Iwamoto, Ed.D., a professor of Psychology and associate dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, was honored in January with the Hawai‘i Psychological Association’s (HPA) 2024 Outstanding Professor of Psychology Award.
In recognizing Iwamoto, HPA said the professor not only oversees Chaminade’s Counseling Psychology, School Psychology and Educational Psychology programs, but also serves on a long list of university committees and has published in over a dozen academic journals.
His teaching experience includes more than 30 undergraduate and graduate courses.
“Dr. Iwamoto exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional teacher who deeply cares about his students and their learning experiences,” the Hawai‘i Psychological Association said.
“By getting to know each student individually, he creates a safe and welcoming space where students feel encouraged to participate and learn at their own pace. This dedication to his students is reflected consistently in course evaluations, where he is rated at the highest levels.”
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Iwamoto said the award was “completely unexpected” and humbling.
“I find so much joy in teaching because being with students and watching them grow and develop into amazing scholars and professionals right before my eyes truly puts me in awe,” he said, adding he is grateful to his mentors in the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences.
“Without their insights and motivating words, I would not be where I am today.”
Iwamoto started at Chaminade in 2007 as the internship director for the Master’s in School Counseling program. He then served as an assistant professor and full professor, and became the associate dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences in August 2024.
Iwamoto said his biggest joy in life is seeing Chaminade graduates become professionals and embrace the University’s mission of serving others. “I believe that Chaminade is not only an institute of higher education, but we also support our students’ transition into adulthood,” Iwamoto said, adding, “Being able to mentor and teach students is so much fun.”
The School of Education and Behavioral Sciences at Chaminade offers undergraduate programs in Psychology, Elementary Education, Criminology and Criminal Justice and more.
Graduate degrees offered through the school include the Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Education, Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology or Organizational Leadership for Adaptation and Change, and Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy.
