Alumni

Festival of Honors

May 3, 2024

Business majors recognized during special event

In accepting her MBA Academic Achievement in Master of Business Administration Award, Caryl Tracy-Metz ’24 cited the words of poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou, quoting, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

“And that resonates with my experience at Chaminade; I will never forget how supportive and encouraging the people have been” said Tracy-Metz, who now holds a Chaminade MBA. “Iron sharpens iron; my peers have made me better and so have my professors.”

For the past three years, the School of Business and Communications has honored its business majors as they graduate from the program. Indeed, it’s a celebratory-worthy occasion that’s marked by the Festival of Honors, an event that highlights the efforts and achievements of prospective graduates.

School of Business and Communication Interim Dean Annette Santos and Assistant Dean Asoke Datta congratulate Caryl Tracy-Metz for her MBA Academic Achievement in Master of Business Administration Award.
Drs. Eddie Merc, Asoke Datta and Annette Santos pose with Taisyn Kauhaahaa, winner of the Academic Achievement in Business Administration.
Drs. Eddie Merc and Annette Santos present Gabriela Galarza with the Academic Achievement in Accounting.
Liz Devine walks toward the podium to accept her Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award.
Assistant Professor Dr. Maria Brownlow nominated Liz Devine for the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award.
MBA lecturer Wera Panow-Loui and Taisyn Kauhaahaa participated in one of three games that was part of the festivities.

“You now enter into a pantheon of Chaminade alumni,” said Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Lance Askildson, Ph.D., in his remarks to the prospective graduates. “You’ve established a long relationship with people who deeply care about you. This moment is not a single flash in the pan; think of us as part of that journey of lifelong learning.”

Graduating with a business degree opens up a world of opportunities and prepares Chaminade alumni potential access to a diverse range of career paths. Through their education, students have cultivated their essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership and adaptability.

“These skills are highly valued by employers and will help our students succeed in any business environment,” said assistant professor Eddie Merc, Ph.D., Chaminade’s MBA Director and Program Advisor. “When we speak with our community partners, they tell us the types of skills that they would like to see from our graduates. And we’ll adapt our curriculum to respond to the business community’s needs.”

Co-emceed by the School of Business and Communication Interim Dean Annette Santos and Assistant Dean Asoke Datta, Festival of Honors, they said, is their favorite ceremony of the year because it marks a significant milestone in a student’s journey in business school.

“It will be a memorable and inspiring experience,” Santos said. “This event represents a journey of growth and excellence.”

Five awards are handed out each year, including the Academic Achievement in Business Administration, Academic Achievement in Accounting, Academic Achievement in Master of Business Administration, Marianist Values and Business for Good, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Being awarded the Academic Achievement in Business Administration, Taisyn Kauhaahaa ’24 thanked the professors in his acceptance speech, remarking that they are here, not just for a paycheck, but for all the right reasons. “I didn’t prepare any formal remarks tonight because I want this to come from the heart,” said Kauhaahaa, pointing to his chest. “You truly care about learning and sharing your knowledge with us.”

Presented to the graduating senior who has best exemplified academic excellence in the Accounting program, the Academic Achievement in Accounting winner was Gabriela Galarza ’24, who has demonstrated exceptional work in class and has shown her capabilities for critical thinking through her coursework.

“I am grateful to be here,” Galarza said. “When I applied to Chaminade, I was stepping out of my comfort zone, and I didn’t think I would stay all four years. I am glad I did.”

Recognized for her commitment to academic excellence and exemplifying the MBA program’s core values of personal integrity, social responsibility and family spirit, Tracy-Metz summoned the words of one of her all-time heroes, Rell Sunn, who defined the aloha spirit as real simple: “You give and you give and you give . . . and you give from here (the heart), until you have nothing else to give.” That’s leadership, Tracy-Metz concluded.

The Marianist Values and Business for Good Award was given to Chaminade’s Enrollment Management Assistant Vice President, Lisa Trumbull ’24, who finally earned her MBA after starting it a decade ago. “It has been a long and challenging journey,” Trumbull shared. “There were a lot of early mornings and weekends, but I gained great insight and knowledge in how to use business as a force for positive change.”

A go-getter with a can-do attitude, Liz Devine ’24 received the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award for her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in her academic and extracurricular activities. “I just showed up one day with no expectations,” said the Iowa native. “‘Life is short, the world is wide and I wanna make some memories’ is a famous line in ‘Mama Mia’ and it’s what I have been able to do during my four years here at Chaminade.”

Employee Donor Mahalo Luncheon

April 24, 2024

The mood was buoyant as the Advancement Office team welcomed guests during its annual Employee Donor Mahalo Luncheon. Your contributions go toward supporting students, allowing fellow Silverswords to follow their dreams, and to give them hope and a chance for a better future, according to senior Audrey Pilar ’24.

In the pursuit of higher education, many students face formidable barriers, with financial constraints being among the most prevalent. For many individuals from low- to even middle-income backgrounds, the dream of attending college or university often seems like an unattainable aspiration. However, scholarships and student financial aid serve as beacons of hope, illuminating pathways to academic success and unlocking doors to opportunities that would otherwise remain shut.

“This event is all about thanking and acknowledging our Chaminade donors,” says Kendra Sia, the Advancement Office’s Annual Fund Director. “Your donations show your support for the students and the mission of our university, providing more opportunities for current and future students.”

Commencement Ceremony 2024

April 23, 2024

Chaminade University will host its Spring 2024 Commencement on Saturday, May 4 at the Waikīkī Shell. The 5:30 p.m. ceremony will honor approximately 600 graduates receiving degrees from the University’s School of Business and Communication; School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics; School of Education and Behavioral Sciences; School of Humanities, Arts and Design; and the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

“Chaminadeʻs Commencement Ceremony is a beautiful and meaningful occasion for our graduates and their families,” said Chaminade University President Lynn Babington, PhD. “We celebrate this milestone and all of our graduates for their accomplishments, dedication and perseverance in pursuing their degrees. Congratulations to all of our graduates!”

This year’s graduating class includes associates, bachelors and 36 doctoral students including the first Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership for Adaptation and Change degree. Other highlights of the Commencement Ceremony:

Executive Counselor for the Asian Pacific Islander Health Forum Dr. Kamanaʻopono M. Crabbe will serve as the Commencement Speaker.
An honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree will be bestowed to community leader Jean Estelle Rolles.
Undergraduate Student Brittany K. Johnson and Graduate Student Donna Kay Fisher will speak as representatives of the student body.

2024 Hogan Entrepreneurial Program and American Savings Bank Nonprofit Business Plan Competition

April 18, 2024

The biennial event attracts various not-for-profits

From recycling and technology to mental health and publishing, the services delivered by the winners of the 11th annual Hogan Entrepreneurial Program and American Savings Bank Nonprofit Business Plan Competition are as diverse as the clients they serve.

“We narrowed it down to eight finalists from the 23 entries that were submitted,” said Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., in her opening remarks. “It was not easy, but the objective of this competition is to encourage excellence and innovation. The work that nonprofits do is absolutely vital to our communities.”

Chaminade’s Hogan Entrepreneurial Program and American Savings Bank’s Nonprofit Business Plan Competition is held every other year and is open to Hawaii nonprofit organizations seeking to start new ventures that will benefit society. The competition aims to stimulate public interest and support in nonprofit organizations—and encourage excellence and innovation in socially-motivated entrepreneurs.

“This biennial competition aligns well with our Marianist mission,” said Dr. Roy Panzarella, director of the Hogan Entrepreneurial Program. “These nonprofits are doing a lot of good for their communities.”

WorkNet members, from left, Mo Kalaikai, Stephanie Ann and Chas Williams were congratulated by Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., far left, and American Savings Bank’s President and CEO Ann Teranishi.

In all, the Hogan Entrepreneurial Program and American Savings Bank awarded $41,000 to nine Hawaii nonprofit organizations who participated in the competition this year. The first-place winner, Worknet Inc., walked away with the $15,000 prize.

“I’m overwhelmed and seldom am I at a loss for words,” said WorkNet Founder, Executive Director and President Chas Williams, upon receiving his award. “We rarely have a chance to revel in the work we do, so I am proud to be here. For once, we’re recognized for the work we do.”

WorkNet is an innovative nonprofit that prepares prison inmates for a successful re-entry into community living to reduce recidivism. The organization specializes in offender re-entry services, which include helping parolees find jobs, secure housing, obtain a driver’s license and restore identity documents so they can have a higher success rate with their reintegration into our communities.

“To be in this company (among other nonprofits), I feel rewarded beyond belief,” says Williams, pssionatley shaking his fist. “This institution (Chaminade) is the training ground, and I offer myself to share my knowledge and ideas with people who are in this field.”

The second-place winner was Mothers Against Drunk Driving, which received $11,000 toward its Teen Influencer Summer Institute, a five-week program that aims to educate today’s youth about the dangers and tragedies of drinking and driving.

Third place went to Pasefika Presence, a nonprofit magazine with a mission to provide a space for voices of the Pacific to share their stories through the publication of their writing and art.

“It’s not easy juggling school and running a nonprofit magazine at the same time,” said Epifania “Epi” Petelo ’23. “We aim to help preserve our stories through this publication and provide Pasefika people, especially youth, with a magazine that they can actually see themselves in.”

Fourth place went to Mood USA. All dressed in the same Mood USA logo T-shirts, Waioli Misajon and her family members—including her 2-year-old daughter—said she was inspired by the competition two years ago, adding that her nonprofit was then just a dream. “This award comes with much appreciation for all the supporters and consultants who have helped develop the nonprofit Mood USA,” said the Nanakuli native of Mood USA, which supports mental health for children in the Leeward area.

The remaining five finalists included Hear 4 Hope, Downtown Art Center’s Metal Lab, PAWsitive Adventures, ThriveHI and Two Times Recycling. Each received a $1,000.

“American Savings Bank is proud to be a sponsor of this competition for many years now,” said American Savings Bank’s President and CEO Ann Teranishi. “The work that you’re doing is not easy, but please continue the work of nonprofits. Our communities need you.”

International Education Week

April 18, 2024

Student clubs share ethnic cuisines and dances

With Chaminade’s diverse population, it’s only fitting that the University would celebrate International Education Week (April 8-12). Inspired by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, the series of campus events featured a melting pot of flavors, starting with the Spring 2024 Taste of Culture.

The Filipino Club served one of the national dishes of the Philippines—lechon, crispy roast pork.

“Our University is a mosaic of talents, backgrounds and experiences, and it is this diversity that makes our community truly exceptional,” says Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D. “International Education Week allows us to celebrate not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.”

Participating clubs at this year’s Sixth Annual Taste of Culture included the TaoTao Marianas Club, World of Dance, Accounting Club, Office of Student Engagement, Chaminade Student Government Association, Micronesian Club, Lumana‘i O Samoa, Student Organization of Latinx, The Filipino Club, Office of the President, Chemistry Club and Restauranteers Club.

Observing cultural week not only offers the Kalaepohaku community a chance to experience the diverse cultures of our student body, but it also facilitates the dismantling of stereotypes while fostering mutual comprehension and acceptance. Through the International Extravaganza, students and local residents can listen to the musical rhythms, watch the graceful dances, and enjoy the traditional attire and unique customs of various cultures, cultivating a profound admiration for our campus diversity and fostering cross-cultural empathy.

“As advisors for The Filipino Club, Bro. Allen (Pacquing) and I ensure that the students are constantly receiving the support they need, ensuring that our activities run smoothly,” says Maritel Suniga, payroll specialist in the Business Office. “They put 100 percent of their time and energy into practicing the traditional tinikling dance, often rehearsing late into the night to perfect their moves.”

Wearing a traditional barong tagalog, Christian Raquepo’s first-time experience at Taste of Culture and International Extravaganza was memorable. “These events are a testament to Chaminade’s value of education in the ‘ohana spirit and inclusivity,” said the Silversword freshman. “As a proud first generation Filipino-American, representing my culture in food and dance with our University community makes me proud of my cultural heritage.”

In addition to The Filipino Club, other participants included Ka Ipu Kukui Me Ka ‘ie ‘ie (Hawaiian Club), Lumana‘’i O Samoa and the Taotao Marianas Club.

“Cultural events allow me to be proud of who I am as a descendant of Filipino immigrants,” Raquepo said. “Dressing up in our cultural attire was my favorite moment.”

The Everlasting Marlene Baker

April 12, 2024

Campus mom to some and Beloved Friend to All

He is not sure if she ever saw the text he sent her of a picture of his newly born son. But, two days later, Keegan Tomita ’13 learned that his “campus mom” had lost her battle to cancer. Marlene Baker was more than just an administrator for Tomita, whose family grew close to the affable longtime Silversword, inviting her to stay with them on Mercer Island in Washington during the summer and even inviting her to Keegan’s wedding.

“Who invites their counselor to their wedding,” quips Tomita, chuckling as he utters those words. “She was truly my mom away from home who was just like family. I still think that I can pick up the phone and hear her voice.”

Jennifer Creech can. The Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success kept the last voicemail Baker ever left her just before she was admitted to the hospital in July 2022. Her voice weakened from chemotherapy treatment, Baker told Creech that she “had to go to the hospital, but not to worry, and that she would be back in the office in a couple of days.”

“She knew all the secrets of Chaminade and they were in her vault,” says Creech, gesturing to her temple. “She would get here every day by 6 in the morning, placing flowers on peoples’ desks and waiting for students to visit her in her office. Chaminade was truly her home.”

Marlene Baker enjoyed spending time with Jennifer Creech’s two sons, from left, Parker and Connor.

Marlene Baker was a beloved friend to many of her colleagues.

Marlene Baker pictured with colleagues from the Office of Student Success.

Marlene Baker would frequently socialize with former Dean of Chaminade’s School of Business and Communication, Scott Schroeder, Ph.D., his spouse Dr. Koreen Nakahodo and Linda Iwamoto.

Marlene Baker was friends with many Silverswords, including, to her right, Koreen Nakahodo and Linda Iwamoto.

Keegan Tomita, like all Silverswords, enjoyed the full support of Marlene Baker.

And it was Baker’s home for more than 50 years, dating back to a time when she left Maui as a 17-year-old college-bound student, eager to pursue a bachelor’s degree at the Kalaepōhaku campus. She would eventually attain her BA in Social Studies in 1972, later earning a master’s in Counseling Psychology in 1988. Not only was Baker an empathetic listener but she was a consummate student, a trait that wasn’t lost on English professor Linda Iwamoto.

“My first memory of Marlene was as a student erectly sitting in the first row,” says Iwamoto, who would enjoy a five-decade-long relationship with Baker and would serve as Baker’s matron of honor at her wedding. “She was always attentive, very shy, and she had beautiful handwriting.”

These days, the art of cursive writing has given way to dexterous texting and instant messages, such as the one Pono Riddle received from Baker on July 28, 2022. After sending her a text noting that he would see her when he returned from a trip, Baker wrote “I love you and miss you.”

“I first met Marlene online when she made my schedule my freshman year,” says Riddle ’18 (BS), ’21 (MEd), Associate Director of the Office of Student Success. “One day I was working at Macy’s and I saw a woman wearing a name tag with the name Marlene in the Bridal Registry department. We got to talking and it turned out that I was the Andre Riddle whom she created the class schedule for. That day sparked a forever friendship throughout my time at Chaminade. I still miss hearing the Hawaiian music coming out of her office.”

It wasn’t unusual for Baker to receive invitations to people’s homes or to be asked to become a godmother. Koreen Nakahodo, Ph.D., made the request twice: once for herself and another for her daughter. “I’ve known Marlene since I was 21 years old,” says the Chaminade Assistant Professor of English. “Since she was from Maui, she took care of all the Neighbor Island kids, feeding them at times and even inviting them to her home for the holidays when they wouldn’t fly home.

“There were so many people that Marlene touched,” Nakahodo adds. “And it gives me great pride and joy—as I am sure it will with others—to contribute to the Chaminade Fund in honor of Marlene. She truly brought so much meaning and joy in so many people’s lives here at Chaminade.”