Marianist

‘We Need to Talk’: Scholar on Civil Discourse

September 11, 2024

Dr. Timothy Shaffer spoke on the importance of civil discourse in today’s polarizing times

As the nation marked the anniversary of 9/11, civil discourse scholar Dr. Timothy Shaffer led an engaging conversation at Chaminade to underscore the importance of disagreeing agreeably in polarizing times.

“We are navigating tensions in the past that are still unrecognizable,” Shaffer told a packed lecture hall of students, faculty and staff members and others. “What happens when rhetoric becomes reality?”

Shaffer, inaugural Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Chair of Civil Discourse and director of the SNF Ithaca Initiative in the Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration at the University of Delaware, said institutions of higher education offer spaces for sharing ideas, finding common ground, understanding new perspectives and even passionately disagreeing—with mutual respect.

In his lecture, “We Need to Talk: Civil Discourse in Partisan and Polarizing Times,” he told attendees engaging in differences is critical—even essential in a democracy—and that it is absolutely appropriate to challenge one another, as long as it’s done in a fair way. “We have what I call, weak civility, which provides us a code of polite conduct or mode of behavioral management,” Shaffer said.

WATCH THE FULL TALK HERE:

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Strong civility, he added, is a “robust engagement of differences that includes dialogue and deliberation.”

Shaffer’s message resonated with the audience, especially in this election year.

Biology major Jason Edric Ulep ’27 said not everyone is going to agree, but it’s critical to understand where different people stand. “Civil discourse promotes the use of voice instead of resorting to physical violence and verbal abuse,” said Ulep, after attending the lecture. “We need civil discourse, as it aims to seek a middle ground and hopefully come to a common understanding or a solution to the problem.”

In his civil discourse leadership role, Shaffer works on a number of projects, which include annual convenings of faculty and students across the United States at the SNF Ithaca National Student Dialogue and research about the role of civil discourse within public affairs education.

Victoria Perrira ’27, a Criminology and Criminal Justice major, said she walked away from Shaffer’s lecture with a new appreciation of civil discourse. “I value truthfulness and was particularly interested in learning how to effectively navigate conversations around polarizing topics,” she said.

Dr. Timothy Shaffer discusses the importance of listening in his lecture themed, “We Need to Talk: Civil Discourse in Partisan and Polarizing Times.”

Shaffer said polarization isn’t new, but how we respond to each other can be. “We have a lack of public discourse,” he said, adding, “You need to create a space for democracy where you have agency. You can build a culture grounded in civil discourse even in these partisan and polarizing times.”

University President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., said the talk was particularly timely as the nation gears up for the presidential election.

“I believe the place of a university, an institution of higher learning, is to really provide the format, the environment for discourse to take a place,” she said.

“That’s our role. … We need, and our students need, to know how to have those important conversations. to listen carefully to people’s ideas and be able to respond to them in a very civil way.”

This lecture was sponsored by Chaminade University’s Office of Mission and Rector, the Association of Marianist Universities and the Marianist Leadership Center.

Chaminade Convenes for Spiritual Convocation

August 22, 2024

The tradition celebrates ‘religious and spiritual roots’ of Chaminade life

One of the pillars that characterize a Marianist education is to educate for formation in faith. And there is perhaps no better example of this than during the Fall Spiritual Convocation.

A longstanding tradition at Chaminade, the Spiritual Convocation marks the beginning of the academic year, formally welcoming students, faculty and staff to the University community.

“It also affords the opportunity to ask for God’s blessing on our Chaminade ‘ohana as we come together as a community to live and learn,” said University President Lynn Babington.

“During this celebration, we take the time to pause and be mindful of each other.”

This sentiment of family spirit aligns with the Marianist approach to education, which seeks to nurture students’ unique talents and fosters a lifelong commitment to learning.

“Last Friday we took part in the Academic Convocation for this new academic year, emphasizing the hopes and aspirations, and taking our A‘a Pledge,” said Fr. Martin Solma S.M., during his sermon. “Today, fittingly, we touch upon the religious and spiritual roots of our University life.”

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During the Convocation, Bro. Ed Brink, Chaminade’s vice president of mission and rector, outlined the origins of the Marianist Educational Associates program. In 2005, representatives from Chaminade, the University of Dayton, and St. Mary’s University of San Antonio responded to a call from the Association of Marianist Universities Board to form a special partnership.

“This initiative invited lay collaborators to help sustain and renew the mission and identity of the universities, rooted in the Catholic and Marianist educational tradition,” Brink said.

“For students, faculty and staff who are new members of our community, it will give you another opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of the University.”

This past summer, seven Chaminade faculty and staff members participated in the MEA Formation in Dayton; the seven-day program involving readings, reflections and shared insights.

The MEA cohort includes:

Andrew Ancheta ’21, student engagement coordinator
Dr. Rylan Chong ’10, Data Science director and assistant professor
Dr. Cheryl Edelson, School of Humanities, Arts and Design dean
Dr. Abby Halston, MS ’05, Marriage and Family Counseling clinical director
Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07, women’s volleyball head coach
Pono Riddle ’18, MEd’ 21, Student Success associate director
Dr. Gail Grabowsky, School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics dean

“These individuals are part of a community committed to strengthening and developing the Catholic and Marianist identity of this University,” Brink said, after calling the cohort’s names.

“I now ask you to affirm your commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.”

Brink also recognized the 23 Chaminade staff members and faculty who made their first commitment in previous years, asking them to stand and renew their commitment as Marianist Educational Associates.

In unison, the MEAs pledged to uphold and advance the Catholic and Marianist mission and identity of Chaminade University. They committed to ongoing reflection, collaboration, and the continuation of programs that reinforce Chaminade’s identity as a Catholic and Marianist University.

They also promised to support others in growing in their understanding and appreciation of the Catholic and Marianist traditions, aiming to embody and witness these traditions for the benefit of the world.

By offering a quality education and searching for truth through human wisdom and faith, Solma said students are able to expand their minds and hearts, and helps them become servant-leaders.

“And, all of this within our Chaminade ‘ohana, where respect, acceptance, appreciation and encouragement are palpable,” Solma added. “As Fr. Chaminade wanted—a genuine family spirit.”

MEA Formation

May 31, 2024

Silverswords Commit to Being Marianist Education Associates

In 2005, members from Chaminade University, University of Dayton and St. Mary’s University of San Antonio responded to the call from Association of Marianist Universities Board to build a partnership among members of the Society of Mary, the sponsoring religious body. It would invite a cadre of lay collaborators, who would together sustain and renew the mission and identity that was Catholic, and that embodied the Marianist educational tradition.

Since then, faculty, staff and administrators have been invited each year to deepen their understanding of and their commitment to the traditions and beliefs that make each respective university a Catholic and Marianist community. Now known as the Marianist Educational Associates Formation, participants engage in a comprehensive program that includes readings, reflections and the sharing of insights.

“The program was well received and there was a lot of positive energy,” said Chaminade’s Chaplain and Special Assistant to the President, Fr. Martin Solma, of the varying talks and events during this year’s Formation at Chaminade, which last hosted the weeklong event in 2015. “Even all the rain was minor compared to the great presentations.”

In all, 27 staff, faculty and administrators—of which seven hailed from Chaminade—from the three Marianist Catholic universities participated in this year’s Formation. New Marianist Educational Associates now include Student Engagement Coordinator Andrew Ancheta ’21; Data Science Director and Assistant Professor Rylan Chong, Ph.D., ’10; School of Humanities, Arts and Design Dean Cheryl Edelson, Ph.D.; School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Dean Gail Grabowsky, Ph.D.; Psychology Associate Professor, and Marriage and Family Counseling Clinical Director Dr. Abby Halston, MS ’05, Ed.D. ; Women’s Volleyball Head Coach Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07; and Student Success Associate Director Pono Riddle ’18, MEd’ 21.

The inspiration for the Marianist Educational Associates (MEAs) stems from Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, the founder of the Marianists, who urged members and communities within the Marianist Family to engage in “dialogues of faith and culture.”

Chaminade recognized the need for conversation and action in response to the new social and cultural environment shaped by the French Revolution. He believed that examining this new world through the lens of a critically informed faith would help people understand the profound needs of the human heart and strengthen their personal commitment to the Christian faith. The MEAs draw their inspiration from this core element of our early tradition.

Golden Pine ‘apple’ Award

May 30, 2024

Teacher and Administrator of the Year Announced

In April, Sacred Hearts School Principal Tonata Lolesio received the coveted 2024 National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) Lead, Learn and Proclaim Award, only one of 11 recipients chosen nationwide for their work upholding Catholic Education and Faith formation to the highest standards. A month later, the longtime Valley Isle educator was named Hawaii Catholic Schools’ Teacher of the Year, bestowing upon her the Golden Pine”apple” Award during a special Recognition Ceremony at Natsunoya Tea House on Oahu.

“Her dedication to teaching the whole student has profoundly impacted both Sacred Hearts School and the broader Lahaina community,” said Dr. Dale Fryxell, Dean of School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, when announcing Lolesio’s name. “One standout example of her commitment occurred in the aftermath of the devastating Lahaina fire, where she established a pop-up school at Sacred Hearts Mission Church in Kapalua, providing continuity of education and emotional support for her students and welcoming displaced children from the wider community.”

“We came together during a time of crisis to help students and families,” Lolesio told the Hawaii Catholic Herald. “It is our Catholic calling and mission. These experiences, especially my first two years as principal, have taught me much about entrusting my work and plans to God for his guidance and protection. It is ultimately his school, I am his servant in providing for its needs.”

With the support of John C. and Mary Lou Brogan, The Augustine Educational Foundation, Hawaii Catholic Schools and Chaminade, the Teacher of the Year and the Administrator of the Year awards recognize excellence in outstanding teachers/specialists and administrators within the Catholic Schools in the State of Hawaii.

“The Golden Pine’apple’ celebrates the best of Catholic education by recognizing talented, service-oriented and faith-filled professionals within the ranks of our Catholic schools,” said Llewellyn Young, Ph.D., superintendent of Hawaii Catholic Schools. “The apple has long been associated with education and wisdom. For our Catholic schools, we use the Pine’apple” to place a cultural spin on the uniqueness of Hawaii and the special roles of our teachers and administrators.”

For the past four decades, St. Anthony School on Maui preschool teacher Kathleen DeLima has demonstrated her dedication to the spiritual development of her students through her incorporation of prayer, song and storytelling into her lessons, nurturing their faith and understanding.

“She is such a great person who has passed on so much wisdom to me, and has really shared so much of the Catholic Faith with all of our staff,” said St. Anthony School Preschool Director Kim Smith. “She is a pillar to St. Anthony Church and School. Not only has she made a significant impact academically but also spiritually. An award like this 100 percent boosts our moral and pride in being recognized for the dedication and work put into the children.”

The Golden Pine”apple” Award—otherwise known as the Golden Apple Award on the mainland—holds significant prestige in the field of Catholic education in Hawaii, serving as a symbol of excellence and dedication among educators. It’s designed to honor outstanding teachers who exhibit exemplary performance in their field. Recipients are recognized for their commitment to teaching, innovative methods and positive impact on students.

“Each year, a panel of distinguished professors reviews each nominee,” Young explained. “Scores are tallied by Chaminade’s School of Education and Behavioral Sciences under the leadership of Dr. Dale Fryxell, and the winners are selected to be presented with the awards at the Hawaii Catholic Schools End-of-the-Year Recognition Luncheon.”

Teachers who receive the Golden Pineapple Award are often those who have made a substantial impact on their students’ learning experiences. This recognition highlights the importance of student-centered teaching and the positive outcomes of effective education. The award also brings attention to the critical role that teachers play in shaping future generations. It further raises public awareness about the importance of quality education, and the need to support and invest in educators.

Baccalaureate Mass

April 29, 2024

As a Catholic, Marianist University, a vital part of graduation weekend is the celebration of the Baccalaureate Mass. This year’s Mass for the Class of 2024 will take place on Friday, May 3, at 6 p.m. at the Mystical Rose Oratory.

“This celebration is an opportunity for our Chaminade ‘ohana to come together in thanksgiving and prayer to honor and thank God for the blessings given to the Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 graduating students and to their families,” says Fr. Chris Wittman, S.M. “It’s a way to celebrate our graduates in context of faith, and acknowledging that God has been part of this experience.”

The Baccalaureate Mass holds a special significance in the culmination of a student’s academic journey. It’s a time for reflection, gratitude and spiritual connection as graduates prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives. Chaminade’s tradition of hosting this Mass underscores the importance of faith and community in the educational experience. It’s a meaningful way to honor the achievements of the graduating class, and to acknowledge the support of their families and loved ones.

Graduating students are honored during the Baccalaureate Mass at Mystical Rose Oratory.

Steeped in history within Catholic education, the Baccalaureate Mass date back centuries, and its origins can be traced to medieval universities in Europe, where it served as a religious ceremony for graduating students. The term “baccalaureate” itself is derived from the Latin “baccalaureatus,” which originally referred to the laurel berries (baccalaureus) worn by graduates in ancient times.

The Baccalaureate Mass serves several purposes:

Spiritual Reflection: It allows graduates to reflect on their academic journey within the framework of their faith. The Mass provides a moment of prayerful contemplation, giving thanks for the gifts of knowledge, growth and community experienced during their time at the institution.

Blessing and Sending Forth: The Mass invokes God’s blessings upon the graduating class as they prepare to enter the next phase of their lives. It serves as a formal commissioning, sending forth graduates with the support and encouragement of their faith community.

Celebration of Achievement: In addition to its religious significance, the Baccalaureate Mass is a celebration of academic accomplishment. It honors the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of students who have successfully completed their studies.

Community Gathering: The Mass brings together students, faculty, staff, families, and alumni in a spirit of unity and fellowship. It reinforces the sense of belonging and connection within the school community, fostering bonds that extend beyond graduation.

While the format and traditions associated with the Baccalaureate Mass may vary from one Catholic institution to another, its fundamental purpose remains consistent—to recognize the holistic development of students, encompassing both intellectual and spiritual growth, as they transition to the next stage of their lives.

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.”