Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honors and Awards

US ED Under Secretary Nicholas Kent Visits Chaminade

The US Department of Education Under Secretary Nicholas Kent visited Chaminade University this past Tuesday, impressed by the innovations and programs that the University offers as well as the high caliber of instruction.

As a first-generation college student and a respected education policy expert with more than two decades of experience, Kent serves as the nation’s top federal official for higher education. As Under Secretary, Kent oversees the Department’s postsecondary education, career, technical, and adult education, and federal student aid programs. This includes managing the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio and the over $30 billion Pell Grant program.

During his three-hour visit to Chaminade, he met with the Montessori Preschool Lab School, Data Science, Analytics & Visualization Lab, the Nursing Simulation Center, the Interior Design Studio Lab, and the Forensic Sciences  “Crime House” Lab. Each visit showcased the distinctiveness and rich experiences that Chaminade provides to students.

He also exchanged ideas with senior leadership of Chaminade during an informal lunch in the President’s Conference Room. Learning about Chaminade’s Catholic Marianist foundation and why being the only private Catholic institution of higher education in the Pacific is vital to our region was another highlight of his tour.

Provost Dr. Lance Askildson presented Kent with a gift from the University to commemorate the auspicious visit. The Chaminade community is thankful for his interest in our campus and programs during his visit to Hawai’i and looks forward to continuing the momentum of providing students the skills, knowledge and experience to further their careers and community.  

Dr. Babington Honored for Leadership, Service

The Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC) honored Chaminade University President Dr. Lynn Babington on May 19 at its 72nd annual gala at The Kahala Hotel & Resort, presenting her with the Paul S. Bachman Memorial Award. The award recognizes outstanding Hawaiʻi leaders for distinguished contributions to strengthening relations between the United States, Asia and the Pacific.

For decades, PAAC has been dedicated to educating and empowering Hawaiʻi students through programs that promote leadership development, cross-cultural learning and global engagement, with a special emphasis on Hawaiʻi’s role in the Asia-Pacific region. More than 200 guests attended the gala, which included tributes and remarks honoring Babington’s leadership and service.

“Dr. Babington is an exceptional community leader committed to providing quality, accessible higher education,” wrote U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono in the gala program. “I extend my congratulations to Dr. Babington and thank her for her contributions to the social, cultural and economic development of Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Islands.”

Since being named president of Chaminade University of Honolulu in 2017, Babington has worked to foster a caring and academically rigorous environment that encourages excellence, expands relevant and industry-informed programs, and creates opportunities for hands-on learning and personal growth.

“It is my profound honor to accept the Paul S. Bachman Memorial Award, recognizing leaders passionate about strengthening ties between the United States and the Asia-Pacific region through educational opportunity,” Babington said in her remarks. “Mahalo to the Pacific & Asian Affairs Council for this truly singular recognition. I also extend my deepest gratitude to the entire Chaminade University ʻohana, whose unwavering support of our mission, unmatched innovation and creativity, and embrace of our social justice initiatives are crucial to our students’ success.”

During the program, Kalani High student Jayden Tran shared how PAAC opened doors and transformed his life by exposing him to global issues and opportunities for personal and professional growth. He completed the PAAC Global Issues Certificate, a United Nations-certified program recognizing student leadership on some of today’s most pressing global challenges.

“PAAC changed my personal values by making me more appreciative of my own circumstances and helping me realize how important it is to help others and the impact that I can have,” Tran said.

The award was presented to Babington by PAAC Board Chairman Warren K.K. Luke and PAAC Board Member Dr. Lance Askildson. PAAC Executive Director Niki Shishido and PAAC Board President-elect Bryan Luke also spoke about PAAC’s impact in engaging more than 100,000 students in international issues and global citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world. Hawai’i State Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi also presented Babington with a certificate of distinction.

Congratulations to Dr. Babington on this well-deserved honor recognizing her commitment to education, service and creating opportunities that make a lasting difference for students and communities across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific.

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.

Alumni Office Hosts San Diego Reunion

More than 80 alumni and prospective families gathered on a beautiful San Diego waterfront for a special Sunday brunch on March 8 that brought the Chaminade spirit to the mainland in a meaningful way. Against the backdrop of the harbor, the event offered a warm and welcoming space for Silverswords to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate their enduring ties to the University.

Attendees traveled from across the region—and beyond—to be part of the occasion. Many alumni made the drive from throughout California, while one dedicated alumna even flew in from Arizona specifically to attend. Their efforts underscored the strength of the Chaminade community and the lasting impact of the relationships formed on campus. Whether reconnecting with classmates after years apart or meeting fellow alumni for the first time, there was a shared sense of pride and belonging throughout the gathering.

President Dr. Lynn Babington joined the group and spent time connecting personally with alumni and guests. She offered updates on the University, highlighting continued growth, new academic initiatives, and the ways Chaminade is evolving to meet the needs of today’s students while remaining grounded in its mission and values. Her remarks reinforced the University’s commitment to fostering a close-knit, purpose-driven community—one that extends far beyond the shores of O‘ahu.

The event also created opportunities for prospective families to engage with alumni and learn firsthand about the Chaminade experience. Conversations flowed easily between generations, with alumni sharing stories about their time on campus, the friendships they built, and how their education has shaped their personal and professional journeys. For prospective students and their families, it was a chance to see the lasting value of a Chaminade education come to life through these authentic connections.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, attendees enjoyed Chaminade-themed swag and participated in a drawing for prizes, bringing an element of fun and excitement to the morning. Chaminade magazines were also available, offering a deeper look at campus developments, student success stories, and the continued momentum of the University community.

Events like this serve as a powerful reminder that the Chaminade connection does not end at graduation—or at the edge of the island. Instead, it continues to grow and thrive wherever alumni gather. The San Diego brunch was more than just a reunion; it was a reflection of a vibrant and engaged alumni network that remains deeply connected to the University and to one another.

An Easter Message from Chaminade

As we celebrate the season of Easter—a time of renewal, hope, and new beginnings—we invite you to click and watch this special message from Chaminade students, President Dr. Lynn Babington, and Director of Campus Ministry Fr. Chris Wittmann.

In this spirit of Easter, we share a message of hope that reflects the heart of our Chaminade ‘ohana. ✝️🌺

Play

A Calling to Counsel

Taylee Miyamura

Taylee Miyamura, MSCP ‘23 has been awarded the 2025 Hawaiʻi Milken Teacher of Promise Award. A counselor at Mililani Middle School, she was selected for this honor based on her exceptional leadership, commitment to student wellbeing and innovative work developing restorative, student-centered support for Hawaiʻiʻs largest middle school. Taylee is a graduate of Mililani High School, the Oregon Institute of Technology, and Chaminade University. 

The Chaminade communications and marketing team reached out to Taylee recently. 

Q: When did you decide to become an educator?

A: I decided that I wanted to pursue school counseling during my final year of getting my undergraduate degree. While interning at a high school in a small town near my college, I realized how meaningful it was to support students and help them navigate challenges. That experience inspired me to pursue school counseling so I could make a positive impact in students’ lives and help them develop the skills and confidence needed to be successful.

Taylee Miyamura

Q: Why did you choose to earn a master’s degree from Chaminade?

A: I knew that I wanted to return home and become a school counselor in Hawaiʻi to give back to the community that helped raise me. I felt that Chaminade would be the place to help me fulfill that goal, as its mission and purpose strongly align with my commitment to service and making a positive impact.

Q: What was your experience as a master’s student like?

A: I began my master’s program at Chaminade right in the middle of COVID, but the professors still found creative and meaningful ways to continue supporting our learning despite the challenges. During that time, I built strong relationships with faculty and classmates who I know I can turn to for guidance and support till this day. Chaminade helped prepare me for my career and equipped me with the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in my role as a school counselor. I would not be where I am today without Chaminade University.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your work?

A: The most rewarding and meaningful part of my job is building strong connections with my students and making them feel supported through their middle school years. It is also those small moments where you see them becoming more confident, hopeful, and resilient!

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring teachers?

A: My advice to aspiring educators is to always remember your “why” in everything that you do. There will be both high days and low days, but keeping your purpose at the forefront will help guide you and remind you of the impact that you are making for these kids. Focus on building connections, being patient and kind, and creating a warm and supportive environment where all students feel valued and encouraged.

Q: Any final thoughts on receiving this award and your education at Chaminade?

A: Receiving the Milken Teacher of Promise award for the LMW (Leilehua, Mililani, and Waialua) complex was truly an honor, and I am very grateful for the education and experiences I received at Chaminade. My time there has helped shape who I am both personally and professionally,

and it has given me the knowledge, skills, and values that guide my work today. I am extremely thankful for the mentors, professors, and my awesome cohort who supported me through my graduate school journey. I am very proud to be a Chaminade Alumna!