Chaminade University of Honolulu

Silversword Spotlight

Waioli Misajon, MSCP 2024

How did your education here contribute to your professional success?

My education here significantly shaped my professional journey, giving me the courage and tools to reach out to influential mentors. One such moment was when I took the initiative to connect with Dr. Lynn Babington, whose story resonated with me in the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program’s Speaker Series, three years ago. During our one-hour meeting, she shared insights into her success, inspiring me to set higher goals for my for-profit and nonprofit ventures. Dr. Babington’s guidance helped me identify my strengths and pinpoint areas for growth, offering wisdom that would have been unreachable without the confidence fostered here. This experience was transformative, and I’m forever grateful for Dr. Babington’s openness to her students. Her alignment of leadership and purpose reflects the University’s commitment to empowering its students, providing learning that extends far beyond the classroom to impact students’ futures and the greater good.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? 

One of the most defining experiences at Chaminade University was my weekly tutoring sessions with Christine Lawson at Chaminade’s Tutoring Center. As my tutor, she guided me through every class in my Master’s program. Christine’s consistent support, especially in areas where I faced challenges with reading, provided a positive, non-judgmental environment that was essential to my growth. Her encouragement was more than academic—it was deeply personal, fostering confidence that I could reach my goals. This journey was enhanced by the tutoring center’s unique, family-style atmosphere, where students connect and support one another. Seeking out this free assistance not only helped me academically but also reinforced the power of community, support, and perspective in achieving my goal of graduating with my Master’s Degree. The tutoring center became a place where I found guidance, friendship, and the reassurance that no hurdle was unachievable with the right support.

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

My education here shaped my perspective and personal growth in ways I never expected, largely thanks to my advisors, Dr. Darren Iwamoto and Dr. Abby Halston, in the Psychology program. They helped me recognize my strengths, guiding me to understand where I could excel. They also showed me how to transform weaknesses into assets, providing me with a new level of self-awareness. Both remained consistently supportive, serving as neutral guides and mentors in a field I’m passionate about. They emphasized the importance of self-care and family, often reminding me to find balance. They encouraged me to take breaks when needed, which was life-changing advice that allowed me to recharge and stay connected to what matters most. Their wisdom, perspective, and genuine care helped me grow not just academically, but personally, in ways that will continue to shape my path.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating, I’ve remained deeply connected to my professional growth through the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program. As an alumni student, I continue attending their speaker series and fulfilling community service requirements, which allows me to engage with driven students and stay inspired. Recently, during a speaker series, I was moved by Melissa Kaufman’s story. After reaching out, she generously met with me for 30 minutes, sharing invaluable guidance that spurred me to launch my business, Mommy Manic LLC. Without Hogan’s support for returning alumni, this idea—one I’d held onto since 2022—might still be unrealized. This experience, from a one-hour talk to a 30-minute meeting, sparked a powerful shift, helping me align my purpose with action and bringing my professional development into existence within the same month.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

When I applied to Chaminade University, I set the goal of achieving more than just a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology—I wanted my experience to fuel something greater. At that time, I didn’t envision founding two businesses, but I knew my purpose for attending Chaminade University extended beyond academics. My education inspired me to join clubs that aligned with my ambitions. I became President and Social Media Officer for Psi Chi, The International Honor Society in Psychology as well as I joined the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program, where I received awards for Outstanding 1st and 2nd Year Student in 2023 and 2024. By engaging with Program Directors and peers, I honed business skills that I now apply daily in the organizations I founded. Chaminade University offered a purposeful environment where every opportunity was a chance to grow, turning education into a journey of real-world achievement and community impact within my professional development.  

I recently accepted a full-time Adjunct Professor at Chaminade teaching Psychology 101 and Organizational Psychology.

Ronni Gallegos ’21

How did your education here contribute to your professional success? 

My education at Chaminade University played a huge role in my professional success. I gained  not only valuable knowledge but also incredible mentorship from my professors, who were  super involved and genuinely cared about their students’ success. Their support and guidance  equipped me with the skills and confidence to navigate job interviews after graduation and step  into my current role. I’m very appreciative of the encouragement and help I received, which  truly set me up for success in my career. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? 

One of the most impactful experiences from my college years was being part of the Chaminade  University softball team. Growing up, it was my dream to play softball at a four-year university,  and achieving that goal was incredibly fulfilling. Traveling around the islands to compete,  including trips to the Big Island, was an unforgettable experience. Being teammates with local  players gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for Hawaiian culture, truly  immersing me in its beauty and values. This experience shaped me both personally and  culturally, making it one of the most memorable parts of my college journey. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

My education profoundly shaped my perspective and personal growth. The university’s  emphasis on values like social responsibility and community engagement pushed me to think  beyond myself and consider the impact I can have on others. Being surrounded by Hawaii’s  unique cultural diversity and learning alongside people from various backgrounds opened my  eyes to different worldviews and taught me the importance of empathy and respect for all  cultures. These experiences enriched my understanding of community, resilience, and  compassion, all of which continue to influence my personal and professional life. 

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Yes, as the Social Media Coordinator for the LAFD Foundation, I am constantly learning how to  be a better young professional in the digital media space. This role has challenged me to stay up  to date with the latest trends, analytics tools, and content strategies to effectively engage our audience. Each experience helps me refine my skills, broaden my perspective, and grow into a  more knowledgeable and adaptable professional. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

I feel incredibly privileged to have received an education, supported by my parents and a  softball scholarship. Their belief in me and the opportunities I’ve been given have inspired me  to aim for success, not just for myself, but to positively impact the lives of others. My education  has motivated me to work hard, take advantage of every open door, and pursue my dreams  with a strong belief in myself and faith in God. It’s shown me that with dedication and  gratitude, I can achieve anything, and I hope to be an example for others to pursue their goals  with the same drive and purpose.

Krys Zyak, MEd ’18, MBA ’19

How did your education here contribute to your professional success?

My education played a pivotal role in shaping my professional success by equipping me with a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. The academic environment fostered my ability to adapt to new challenges, which has been essential in my roles as a Project Manager, Instructional Designer, and in leadership positions like my current role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines. Through my education, I also developed a deep understanding of instructional design principles, which has been critical to creating engaging, learner-centered programs in both corporate and non-profit settings.
Additionally, the exposure to diverse subjects and collaborative projects during my education enhanced my communication and teamwork skills, preparing me to work effectively across industries. These competencies, combined with a continuous drive for learning, have allowed me to excel in complex, fast-paced environments, from designing training programs to leading teams in dynamic corporate settings like Hawaiian Airlines.

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you?

One of the most impactful experiences during my time pursuing my Master of Business was my involvement with the Hogan Entrepreneurs program. This program not only pushed me academically but also helped me develop a mindset of innovation and resilience, which has been invaluable throughout my career.
Working closely with the faculty involved in this program, I had the privilege of engaging in one-on-one discussions with some truly exceptional professors and mentors. These interactions went beyond the classroom, where faculty would challenge my thinking, encourage new ideas, and offer invaluable guidance on how to apply business concepts in real-world situations. Their personalized feedback and encouragement helped me build the confidence to take on leadership roles in my career, from managing complex projects to leading training initiatives.
The combination of the structured learning in the Hogan Entrepreneurs program and the personalized mentorship from faculty had a profound impact on my professional journey. It not only honed my entrepreneurial mindset but also reinforced the importance of strong leadership, collaboration, and continuous learning—principles I carry with me to this day.

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

My education profoundly shaped both my professional perspective and personal growth by broadening my understanding of leadership, innovation, and adaptability. The diverse experiences I encountered, particularly through the Hogan Entrepreneurs program during my Master of Business, pushed me to think critically about solving real-world problems and taught me the value of collaboration and resilience.
Working closely with exceptional faculty members in one-on-one settings played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership. These interactions fostered not only a deeper understanding of business principles but also a strong sense of accountability and empathy—traits that have been integral in my roles as a Training Manager, Project Manager, and Instructional Designer.
On a personal level, the program instilled a growth mindset, encouraging me to continuously seek improvement and new opportunities for learning. This mindset has been a key factor in my success across various industries, from corporate training at Hawaiian Airlines to managing complex instructional design projects at Travelers Insurance. My education provided me with a well-rounded perspective, allowing me to blend creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking in everything I do.

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating, I have been committed to continuously investing in my professional development through a combination of formal learning, hands-on experience, and personal growth. I actively use mobile and web technologies, alongside learning platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn Learning, to stay current with the latest industry trends and tools. Whether it’s mastering new instructional design methods or enhancing my leadership skills, these platforms provide valuable insights that I regularly apply in my role as a Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Beyond technical skills, I have also focused on expanding my spiritual and spatial awareness. Self-improvement podcasts have become a key part of my personal development, helping me cultivate mindfulness and emotional intelligence—qualities that enhance my ability to lead and collaborate more effectively at work. Additionally, by deep diving into the work I do, I’ve developed a stronger passion for creating meaningful, engaging learning experiences for others. This continuous learning approach keeps me motivated and allows me to adapt to new challenges with confidence.

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

My education has significantly influenced both my personal goals and achievements by encouraging me to think outside the box and equipping me with the leadership skills necessary to excel. The small, close-knit campus community allowed me to form meaningful connections and early networking opportunities within Hawaii. These relationships helped me build a foundation of trust and collaboration that has been invaluable in my career, particularly in leadership roles like my current position as Training Manager at Hawaiian Airlines.
Being mentored by outstanding professionals on campus not only enhanced my leadership abilities but also boosted my confidence to pursue opportunities I might not have considered before. The skills and mindset I developed gave me the courage to apply for challenging roles across diverse industries, from instructional design at HMSA to managing training programs at a major airline. My education empowered me to set ambitious goals and provided the tools to achieve them, both professionally and personally.

Alexis Peterson ’16

How did your education here contribute to your professional success?

The achievement of my professional goals is a direct result of my education from Chaminade University. The Forensic Sciences program allowed me to explore the many opportunities the field had to offer, reaffirmed my passion for investigation, and equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. The program allowed me the unique opportunity to intern at the Honolulu Medical Examiner’s Office where I would later join their team of  investigators in 2019. I am proud to be born, raised, and educated in Hawaii and I am now honored to represent and serve our local community. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you?

The summers in between each academic year were some of my most valuable experiences and cherished memories.  My professors always encouraged participation in extracurricular activities. Every summer I had the opportunity to participate in different summer research programs through Chaminade University, University of Hawaii, and Purdue University. As a result I gained research experience in marine biology, microbiology, and forensic sciences. While the research was an invaluable experience, I fondly remember these summers as times  I was snorkeling with turtles in Kaneohe Bay, experiencing a summer in Indiana,  and eating deep dish pizza in Chicago. These summer opportunities culminated into research presentations that allowed me to travel and present at several local and national conferences. My favorite conference was the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Conference in Las Vegas during my senior year. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

The Marianist characteristic to educate for adaptation and change is a philosophy that has guided me through my college education and beyond. This value has given me the courage to accept every success and disappointment with an open heart and open mind. Accepting every opportunity to learn and grow set me on a path to achieve my goals and find fulfillment in every aspect of life.  

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating I have applied my education to my career as a medicolegal death investigator for the City and County of Honolulu. I continue to participate in research with Chaminade University that started while I was an undergraduate and have since been an author on my first professional publication.  I am also pursuing certification as a diplomate with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Studying Forensic Sciences at Chaminade University was the best decision of my life. At 17 years old, pursuing what I thought was a non-conventional degree of study was intimidating. My education at Chaminade brought what was once a dream into reality and I am forever grateful to the university that brought that dream to fruition. In my experience I learned that every dream is worth pursuing and the potential for success outweighs any fear of failure. I was fortunate enough to find the right university that connected me to mentors who would support my ambitions and who continue to support me on my personal and professional journey. 

Sonny Equila-Liu ’14, MBA ’16 CFP®, CEPA®

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

I went to Chaminade knowing that I ultimately wanted to help people with their finances. My education in accounting allowed me to build a strong foundation for understanding both business and personal finances, knowing that at the heart of both disciplines, accounting is the blood that keeps the heart beating. After I pivoted my career from tax accountant to personal financial planner due to changing career aspirations, my accounting experience sharpened my eyes to be able to delve deeper into my client’s financial situations. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? 

Coming from a high school class of a few hundred students to a very intimate classroom setting of 10-15 accounting students is what encouraged me to grow into the confident person I am today, as my voice was not drowned out by others. Due to the more intimate classroom sizes, the cohort of accounting students I befriended are the relationships I hold dearly today. Also, as a two-year participant in the Hogan Entrepreneurial program, I learned the importance of being a self-starter and an advocate for myself in life. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

Chaminade’s service-oriented and purpose-led education is what inspired me to become a financial advisor in the first place. Beyond my own socio-economic status, I was exposed to a spectrum of individuals who had financial issues through the service learning projects and internships I was able to participate in. This experience not only humbled me, but it also ignited a passion to help others become financially independent and knowledgeable. 

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Beyond Chaminade, I also became a Certified Financial PlannerTM  and Certified Exit Planning AdvisorTM, to become the best version of myself. These designations allowed me to further refine my expertise in personal financial planning and business exit planning strategies to be a strategic advisor for my clients. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

My career at Edward Jones is an entrepreneurial endeavor in itself.  It’s awesome to see how my education and experience have led me to work and live within the West Oahu community. Having the knowledge and opportunity to help my family, friends and our community are life achievements that I am very proud of.

Leah Paffie MSCP ’24

How did your education at Chaminade contribute to your professional success?

During my time at Chaminade, I learned so much about the connection between the body and mind. Since we were required to take the Stress-Management course at the beginning of the master’s program, I believe this set us up for success. It allowed us to understand ourselves better when we start to feel a sense of fatigue within school or our future careers. 

Can you recall a specific moment or experience during your time that had a significant impact on you? (can be academically or socially)

My time at Chaminade, specifically in my master’s program, there were a lot of significant moments. The program really allowed for us to dive deeper into our own past traumas, our personal issues and family issues, which may need to be seen from an alternate approach or different lens. With this, the impact allowed me to heal, grow, face my life challenges, and be the best version of myself to help support our communities. 

How did your education here shape your perspective and personal growth?

Chaminade really supported the personal growth of students. This program was designed to help us get to the root of our internal possible issues and to find our internal compass. My attitude or perspective on life and toward future clients were shaped by Chaminade’s amazing professors. They spent a lot of time explaining concepts and going deep into each course. Learning the differences between personalities, traumas and diagnosis all helped support my internal growth. 

How have you continued to invest in your professional development since graduating?

Since graduating this past May, I have continued to take educational courses that are more specific to my own therapeutic style, which include Yoga Therapy, Vagus Nerve activation, Trauma-Informed Somatic Movement, and other personal studies that interest me and provide growth for my personal private practice. 

How has your education influenced your personal goals and achievements?

Chaminade influenced my personal goals and achievements by supporting me from the very beginning. I have my Associate Arts in Business and bachelor’s in Psychology with Chaminade. Since I’ve always had so many great experiences here, I pursued my master’s with Chaminade. The process to get where I am today was solely between my motivation to help the communities and Chaminade rooting for me the entire time. The professors truly supported us and highlighted our positive qualities, while supporting us in areas that may have needed growth. The feeling of non-judgment and understanding was felt and heard during my time at Chaminade, and I am forever grateful.