Chaminade University of Honolulu

Campus Event

Nonprofits Shine at Chaminade’s Hogan Competition

Chaminade University’s Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program hosted its 2026 Nonprofit Business Plan Competition, sponsored by American Savings Bank, on April 15 bringing together nonprofit leaders from across Hawaiʻi to strengthen their organizations and expand their impact.

The competition received 50 submissions, reflecting a wide range of community-focused initiatives addressing issues such as housing, health, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation. Program organizers extended their appreciation to all participating nonprofits for their time, effort, and commitment to serving the community.

Community leaders volunteered as judges and narrowed down the submissions to nine finalists and one honorary finalist. Their feedback and evaluation played a key role in selecting this year’s winners and providing valuable insight to participants.

The competition emphasizes an entrepreneurial approach to nonprofit work, encouraging organizations to think strategically about growth, sustainability, and measurable impact. Through this process, participants gain practical tools to strengthen operations while staying focused on their mission.

The finalists provided an oral presentation before a judging panel on Tuesday, April 7.

The 2026 winners are:

1st Place – $15,000
Royal Adventures – Surfrider Spirit Sessions

2nd Place – $11,000
Kupuna Paws Foundation

3rd Place – $6,000
Healing by Design – The Institute of Human Services

4th Place – $4,000
Lei Wili Recycling – Lei Wili Plastics Recycling

Additional finalists, each receiving $1,000, include: Gathering Place; ʻIke Pono Training Lab – Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health Connection; Kalakoa Creative Wellness; Sweet Island Market – Roots & Riddim; and Sweetgrass Wellness Collective. The honorary finalist with EcoRacers form Maui Waena School. 

The event is supported by community and institutional leadership. Chaminade University President Dr. Lynn Babington welcomed and thanked Ann Teranishi, President of American Savings Bank, for the bank’s continued sponsorship and commitment to nonprofit development in Hawaiʻi. Roy Panzarella, Director of the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program, led the competition, with coordination support from Ann Kishi. Their efforts help ensure the program continues to provide meaningful learning experiences and practical benefits for participating organizations.

The Nonprofit Business Plan Competition remains an important opportunity for Hawaiʻi-based nonprofits to refine their strategies, build capacity, and connect with community leaders. It also highlights the role of entrepreneurship in advancing nonprofit work and strengthening the broader community.

Catholic School Fifth Graders Go to College

Fifth grader Ireland Baum waited on the lanai of the Sullivan Library, anticipating a day of college life with her classmates and peers from Catholic schools across the state. 

“I think coming here to Chaminade is a great experience so I can learn more about college life,” Baum said. “I think college is going to be fun because we get to learn new things and go to fun classes.” 

By the sights and sounds of active, engaged, and happy youths on Chaminade’s grassy, beautiful and safe campus, FUN is absolutely correct. 

Baum is one of approximately 350 fifth-graders who spent or will spend a day at Chaminade University this month, attending classes taught by university professors and then receiving a “diploma” presented by Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington in a special graduation ceremony in Mamiya Theatre. The first day was held yesterday, February 12, and will happen again on February 23. The “I Go To College” program is a partnership between Hawaiʻi Catholic Schools and Chaminade, immersing students from Oahu, Kauai, Maui and Hawai‘i island to college life at an early age and providing them with a fun, enriching day. 

In the “Amazing Brain Class,” students discussed the brain’s amazing abilities, its limitations, and its dysfunctions. Then talked about the field of psychology with a final message of patience and acceptance.  Students attended the “Catching Morphology Concepts through Pokemon” class to learn word parts (morphology) through Pokemon names and how those names align to abilities. Dr. Denise Dugan taught a class called “Mini Science Lab: The Invisible Ink Mystery” in which students engaged in a fast-paced, hands-on science experience. In the 30-minute lab, students acted as scientists by writing secret messages with an “invisible ink” and then revealing them using a color-changing indicator. 

Students also enjoyed a pizza lunch and took home their brand new diplomas and mortar boards which they received upon “graduating” from Chaminade. 

Thursday, Feb. 12,  the schools participating included: 

St. Joseph’s School, Hilo

Sacred Hearts School, Lahaina

St. Anthony School, Maui 

St. Theresa School, Kauai 

Our Lady of Good Counsel

St. Theresa School

St. John Vianney School 

St. Michael School

St. Louis School

On Monday, Feb. 23, these schools will vist: 

Sacred Hearts Academy 

St. Anthony School, Kailua

St. Elizabeth School 

St. Joseph Parish School

Maryknoll School

Holy Family Catholic School

St. Patrick School 

Mary, Star of the Sea School  

A seven-year longitudinal study* a college prep program for middle school students showed that “college visits were an integral part of the program.” Students who went on a campus visit had more positive perceptions of college than those who did not. Research also shows the importance of starting college and career planning, and awareness in middle school. Early exposure to a college campus makes a difference, especially among first-generation college-bound, and other underrepresented groups, which are an integral element to increase college enrollment and diversity on campus. 

*Research in Middle Level Education, Rich A. Radcliffe & Liz C. Stephens, 2008

Chaminade celebrates Founders’ Week 2026

Students, staff, faculty, and the campus ministry have been gathering this week to celebrate Founders’ Week, Chaminade University’s annual time to reflect on the origin of the Marianist mission and to express gratitude for those who came before.

The week-long celebration honors the legacy of Chaminade’s three foundational figures and founders of the Marianist Catholic order: Father William Joseph Chaminade, who established the Society of Mary; the Venerable Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon; and the Venerable Marie Thérèse Charlotte de Lamourous.

Activities kicked off on Monday when students, staff, faculty, and campus ministry leaders gathered at the foot of the statue of Father Chaminade standing prominently at the entrance to campus. The statue was adorned with colorful, traditional Hawaiian leis, as has been the tradition for decades.

Father Martin “Marty” Solma led Monday’s ceremony, a casual affair under clear skies that followed heavy rain from earlier that morning. Father Marty invited attendees to take inspiration from the statue and the message the artist who created it was trying to convey.

“We all see this image every day when we come to campus,” he said. “May it remind us that without this holy founder, this man of faith, hope, and love, none of us would be here studying, working, learning, and playing on Kalaepōhaku.”

He said the statute’s posture—outstretched arms, facing downwards—should be interpreted as “an invitation to serve.”

“He’s portrayed as looking down, inviting us—students, faculty, staff—to join him in his mission of service to the community, especially to youth and to those least capable.”

The week of remembrance continued on Wednesday with the main event, the Founders’ Day Mass & Heritage Awards Ceremony. The holy mass was led by Father Christopher Wittmann, known around campus as Father Chris.

Mirroring the celebration of the university’s three foundational figures, every year the Heritage Awards recognizes three exceptional members of the Chaminade family.

The Chaminade Award recognizes a faculty or staff member who most exemplifies the spirit of the university. The Marianist Award is given to a staff member who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to Chaminade University’s mission. Finally, the Founders’ Award recognizes a student for their exemplary demonstration of respect, generosity, faith, and other Marianist values.

University President Dr. Lynn Babington opened the mass and awards ceremony with a speech reminding everyone of the school’s foundational mission.

“Marianists from the beginning have embraced the idea of education as a mechanism to transform society and support the spirit of openness, mutual respect, and acceptance,” President Babington said. “At Chaminade University of Honolulu, we are committed to being such an environment where students thrive.”

She and Father Marty honored the three award winners: Dr. Dustyn Ragasa ‘07, Abigail Hurgo, and Easton DelaCruz ‘26.

The Chaminade Award went to Dr. Ragasa, a Chaminade professor and Director of the Master of Pastoral Theology Program who is adored by his students. Ragasa is originally from Kauai and holds a doctorate from the Graduate Theological Union.

Abigail Hurgo is this year’s recipient of the Marianist Award for her unflinching commitment to student success. Hurgo is Chaminade’s Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and is responsible for organizing and leading New Student Orientation, campus tours, and other events welcoming students to our community.

Easton DelaCruz is the 2026 recipient of the Founders’ Award. Hailing from Saipan, DelaCruz is a student majoring in communications. He was recognized for his active role in campus life, volunteering to assist with dozens of activities and events. DelaCruz is slated to graduate this year.

“It is a wonderful occasion for us to gather,” Father Chris said.

He thanked everyone who gathered at the Mystical Rose Oratory on Wednesday “as we celebrate the Marianist founders, we celebrate our Heritage Award winners, we celebrate the mission and charism that we have inherited from our founders and are privileged to carry forward in our faith.”

Silverswords Kick Off New School Year

Chaminade kicked off its new academic year August 25, officially welcoming more than 600 new students for fall term—and welcoming back undergraduates from across day and online programs.

Jennifer Creech, Ed.D., Chaminade vice president for Enrollment Management and associate provost for Student Success, said the newest Silversword class shows Chaminade is maintaining strong enrollment numbers despite a highly competitive local and national market.

To prepare for the new school year, Chaminade welcomed new students and their families to campus on August 22 for informational sessions, a resource fair, campus tours and great food.

New Student Orientation began with a convocation symbolizing the launch of each student’s unique Chaminade journey. Following the gathering, faculty created a “cheer tunnel” for attendees. The day also included academic advising and financial aid information.

“New Student Orientation is where your Chaminade journey begins,” Creech said. “It is an introduction to campus, but it’s also your first chance to meet faculty, staff, and fellow students, explore resources and start living the values that shape the Chaminade community.”

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Creech added, “Being part of NSO helps you hit the ground running both in the classroom and beyond.”

The fun continued into the weekend with a shopping mall excursion and Diamond Head hike with Chaminade President Lynn Babington. Welcome Mass in Mystical Rose Oratory and Brunch with the Brothers at Hale Malia were both held and warmly received on the Sunday before the first day classes. There are also a series of “Welcome Week” activities planned for all students, including a popcorn party, picnic, and Waikiki beach trip.

For the full online event calendar, click here.

Chaminade Hosts Nonprofit Financial Seminar

Chaminade University hosted its 22nd annual Nonprofit Financial Seminar on August 7, welcoming scores of professionals from more than 50 different not-for-profit Hawaiʻi organizations to campus for a day of collaboration, networking, and growth.

Speakers and panel discussions covered a wide range of topics, including the current government tax and funding landscape.

Also covered: fundraising, successful grant writing, and what nonprofits can do to succeed in a changing economy.

Annette Taijeron Santos, DBA, interim dean of the School of Business and Communication, said the event showcases Chaminade’s deep commitment to the state’s nonprofit sector.

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“More than just a seminar, this gathering is a space for collaboration, capacity-building, and community,” she said.

“For over two decades, we’ve welcomed nonprofit leaders to our campus to learn, share, and uplift one another. In strengthening those who serve others, we live out our shared kuleana to foster a more just, compassionate, and thriving Hawai‘i.”

Major sponsors of the event included OCCPA LLC, First Hawaiian Bank and Sacred Hearts Academy.

Undergraduates Showcase Summer Research

For many undergraduates, summer means spending lots of time at the beach or the mall.

But for a group of Silverswords, this summer offered the perfect opportunity to sink their teeth into a complex research project under the mentorship of a Chaminade professor. The undergraduates presented their work in July at the Summer Research Institute Symposium on campus.

Among the areas they explored: AI, healthcare, architecture and financial literacy, to name a few.

Shania Lindsey R. Gervacio ’27 presented her research on using artificial intelligence as a creative tool in interior design concept development. The Environmental + Interior Design student at Chaminade conducted her research under Associate Professor Junghwa Suh, D. Arch.

“I chose to take up this summer research opportunity because I wanted to utilize my free time expanding my knowledge in this career field of interior design while developing my skills in research and public speaking,” she said, adding her goal is to become an interior designer.

“I was very excited that I had the chance to present my findings and results to the University community. I honestly was unsure of who would be attending, so it was definitely a unique and memorable experience to have presented in front of diverse audiences.”

Gervacio hopes to refine her research paper for an upcoming national conference.

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Jax Wong ’26, who is majoring in psychology, presented research on potential psychosocial interventions for adults with autism or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). His research was conducted under Associate Psychology Professor Abby Haltson, Ed.D.

Wong said he chose the topic because he has autism and ADHD, and wanted to investigate support available to people like him in the community.

“I consider myself very lucky and fortunate to have a strong support system, but many other folks do not and are left to fend for themselves,” he said.

“My research findings confirmed my predictions: there is a very concerning lack of research on my communities and the evidence for potential interventions is also lacking.”

Wong added it was “intimidating” to present his research to the University community, but the experience gave him more confidence in his work and his research skills. He now looks forward to pursuing a career in academia to improve the state of research in his areas of interest.

The annual Summer Research Institute is coordinated at Chaminade in partnership with Kapiʻolani Community College.

Amber Noguchi, Ph.D., who is assistant provost for Undergraduate Research and Pre-Professional Programs, said the grant-funded initiative offers important research experiences to undergraduates. In a new aspect this year, each student also selected a community partner to work with in addition to a mentor.

The community partners, including nonprofits, informed the research work, provided background information on fields, and directed students to available resources and information.