CHAMINADE MAGAZINE
BOARD of REGENTS BOARD of GOVERNORS
CHANCELLOR
Rev. Oscar Vasquez, S.M.
CHAIR
Keiki-Pua Dancil, Ph.D.
FIRST VICE CHAIR
Rodney Harano, MBA ’84
SECOND VICE CHAIR
John Field, Jr., MBA ’84
SECRETARY
Eric Fujimoto, MBA ’94
Violeta Arnobit
Edward Barnabas
Gae Bergquist-Trommald
Carolyn Berry Wilson
Ismael Eustaquio, Jr. ’88
Lori Forman, Ph.D.
Melialani James
Estelle Kelley, JD-MBA, Ph.D.
Bro. Joseph Markel, S.M.
Lauren Nahme
David Oyadomari
Jean Rolles, MSJBS ’93
Kristine Stebbins ’87
Alison Tanaka, MBA ’15
David Underriner
Bro. Edward A. Violett, S.M., Ph.D.
Vernon Wong, MBA ’92
EX OFFICIO
Lynn Babington, Ph.D.
Hans Chun, Ed.D.
Col. Christine Gayagas (Ret.), Ed.D.
Bro. Jesse O’Neill, S.M.
Rev. Oscar Vasquez, S.M.
CHAIR
Col. Christine Gayagas (Ret.), Ed.D.
VICE CHAIR
Anton C. Krucky
SECRETARY
Blaine Rand Y. Lesnik, Psy.D.
Arnold M. Baptiste, Jr.
Richard J. Blangiardi
John C. Brogan
Sai Cheong Chui ’76, MBA ’78
Robert Eisiminger
William H. Garrett
AnneMarie Gumataotao, Ph.D.
Robert S. Harrison
Nancy Hayashi
Gary G. Hogan
Matthew D. Howard ’89
Michael F. Kerr, J.D.
Sondra L. Leiggi Brandon, DNP-MBA
Bryan Luke
Dawn O. MacNaughton, MBA ’93
Rear Adm. Joseph J. McClelland, Jr. (Ret.)
Matthew J. Morgan, M.Ed. ’02
Rear Adm. Kenneth P. Moritsugu (Ret.), M.D., MPH, FACPM, USPHS
Donald D. Rodrigues
Richard E. Tanaka
Vaughn G. Vasconcellos
Jeff Wagoner
Lt. Gen. Francis John Wiercinski (Ret.)
Albert S. Wong
Greg Young
EX OFFICIO
Lynn Babington, Ph.D.
Keiki-Pua Dancil, Ph.D.
LEADERSHIP
PRESIDENT
Lynn Babington, Ph.D.
PROVOST & SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
Lance Askildson, Ph.D.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Aulani Kaanoi
RECTOR & VICE PRESIDENT FOR MISSION
Fr. Martin Solma, S.M.
VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT & ASSOCIATE PROVOST FOR STUDENT SUCCESS
Jennifer Creech, Ed.D.
VICE PRESIDENT, UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
Cathy Lee Chong
VICE PRESIDENT, ADVANCEMENT
Jill Higashi
VICE PRESIDENT, STUDENT AFFAIRS & DEAN OF STUDENTS
Allison Jerome, Ed.D.
This is a momentous year for Chaminade University. Seven decades ago, our institution was founded to educate for adaptation and change; to inspire students to serve others in pursuit of the Catholic, Marianist values of social justice and peace; and to strengthen our communities—one student and graduate at a time. Our 70th anniversary, to be sure, is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a University ʻohana and to celebrate our global, collective impact.
This is also a year to look to the future, a common theme showcased by the Silverswords interviewed for this issue’s cover feature (page 12); a collection of stories aimed at fostering dialogue about the importance of our mission and reminding us there is more work to be done.
Indeed, now more than ever, our communities need Silverswords to serve as leaders, driving necessary change that improves the lives of all of our neighbors and working across fields and industries to seek out innovative solutions to shared challenges, whether longstanding or new.
We need inspirational changemakers like Christine Baleto ’91, president and CEO of telecommunications firm Docomo Pacific in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. On page 8, read about Christine’s strong commitment to service. She says Chaminade not only helped her develop as a global citizen, but nurtured her commitment to give back to her community.
Also in this issue, on page 19, you will meet someone who found his calling at Chaminade and is now helping young people do the same. Ryan Scudder, MSCP ’12, serves as the director of College Counseling at Punahou School and says his passion is to help students consider both what they want to study and how they see themselves impacting the world in positive and lasting ways.
Silverswords like Ryan show us that mentorship is also leadership. And the pages of this edition are filled with the stories of countless other mentors, including the late Merv Lopes, the coaching titan whose loss earlier this year was felt across our Chaminade community. On page 10, read a truly touching remembrance for Merv from our Head Men’s Basketball Coach Eric Bovaird.
And finally, in this 70th anniversary issue, we are so delighted to recognize our Honor Roll of Donors for fiscal year 2024–25 (pages 38–44). Our donors, including the esteemed members of our Chaminade Fund Society, are simply pivotal to student success. We are committed to providing a high-quality, affordable, values-focused, private education, and with the help of our entire Chaminade family, we will continue to deliver on that promise—for years to come.
Sincerely,
Lynn Babington, Ph.D. PRESIDENT
CHAMINADE UNIVERSITY
MAGAZINE
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FEATURES
ON THE COVER 70th Anniversary
Silverswords of all stripes—from students and alumni to professors and administrators—reflect on Chaminade’s seven decades of impact and its bright future.
Honoring a Legend
In this touching remembrance, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Eric Bovaird pays tribute to the one and only Merv Lopes.
5
A Winning Pitch
Chaminade business students showcase innovative marketing strategies to clinch first in an international competition.
7 The Nurse is In!
Chaminade’s new partnership with Hawaiʻi Catholic Schools is bolstering student health.
24 Setting a
High Bar
For the Silversword women’s soccer team, winning is an important goal—but not the only one.
26
Tech-Focused, Service-Minded
This Chaminade graduate dreams of using data science to strengthen his community—and reach for the stars.
SECTIONS
FROM THE HILL
20 A Cultural Celebration Student ‘Extravaganza’ Performances Delight
28 Students Showcase Research Undergraduates Present CuttingEdge Work at Symposium
LEADING THE WAY
18 Learning By Doing Sport and Event Management Students Put Their Skills to the Test
22 Transforming Lives
Prison Program Underscores Power of Education
ON FAITH
16 On a Mission
Meet Chaminade’s New Vice President for Mission and Rector
17 The Right Stuff Student-Athletes Learn to Serve as Campus Mentors
SILVERSWORD PROFILES
8 Servant Leadership Christine Baleto ’91 on Lifting Her Team—and Her Island
19 Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders Ryan Scudder, MSCP ’12, Says He’s Found His Calling
CHAMINADE ‘OHANA
29 Alumni Happenings
30 Class Notes
38 Honor Roll of Donors
CHAMINADE NEWS
NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Two Hawai‘i business leaders have been elected to serve on Chaminade University’s Board of Regents as the institution marks its 70th year of serving students across the Islands and Pacific.
The new regents are: David Oyadomari, who is the founder and managing director of Ekklesia Capital, an innovation and strategy firm focused on developing small businesses; and Kristine Stebbins ’87, senior executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Bank of Hawai‘i. Oyadomari and Stebbins are both longtime supporters of Chaminade.
Oyadomari, formerly the executive vice president of operations at American Savings Bank, has more than 25 years of experience in new market and product development, cost reduction and organizational design. He also serves as strategic advisor to FTV Capital.
Oyadomari says he is committed to his family and faith, and seeks to live the values that Chaminade teaches—from moral character to building a just, peaceful society.
Stebbins joined the Bank of Hawai‘i in October 2020, and has nearly 30 years of experience in digital marketing, brand strategy, integrated marketing, product marketing, and channel marketing through the customer experience lens. She was founder and CEO of Beyond Vigilant, a strategic consultant company that led clients through digital business transformation, and has also held leadership positions at Ogilvy & Mather, Accenture, Ascentium Capital, and Microsoft.
In addition to her volunteer work with the University, including the School of Business and Communication, the Chaminade alumna has served on the board for Girl Scouts and mentored local entrepreneurs through the Mana Up effort and Bank of Hawai‘i.
PROFESSOR HONORED FOR CONTRIBUTIONS TO NURSING
Chaminade Associate Professor Marife Aczon-Armstrong, Ph.D., was selected for induction into the American Academy of Nursing’s 2025 Class of Fellows, a prestigious honor reserved for leaders in the field who have made substantial contributions to healthcare.
This year’s fellows hail from 42 stations and 12 countries.
They join 3,200 active Academy Fellows who “together advance the Academy’s mission of improving health and achieving health equity by impacting policy through nursing leadership, innovation, and science.”
Aczon-Armstrong has been a nationally board-certified nurse case manager for 25 years, and a Fulbright Senior Specialist for more than a decade. In addition to a doctoral degree in nursing, she holds master’s degrees in nursing and counseling psychology as well as multiple certifications.
Lorin Ramocki, DNP, interim dean of Chaminade’s School of Nursing and Health Professions, called induction into the Class of Fellows “one of the highest honors in our profession.”
“This recognition reflects not only her extraordinary contributions to leadership and nursing education, but also elevates the national profile of our school and its commitment to advancing health equity and innovation,” Ramocki said.
The Academy said the 2025 Class of Fellows was selected from a historically high number of applicants. The fellows will be formally recognized at a conference in October in Washington, DC.
“I cannot emphasize enough at this pivotal time in history the vital importance of recognizing this extraordinary and sizable group of nurse leaders. With rich and varied backgrounds from practice, policy, research, entrepreneurship, and academia, they have been instrumental in using nursing’s holistic approach to improve the health of patients and communities throughout the world,” said Academy President Linda D. Scott, Ph.D.
Also among the 2025 Class of Fellows: Dr. Sondra L. Leiggi Brandon, APRN-Rx, a member of the University’s Board of Governors and vice president of Patient Care, Behavioral Health at the Queen’s Health Systems.
A NEW SPACE FOR LIVING AND LEARNING
A new kind of residence hall is coming to Chaminade.
Construction workers are busy transforming Marianist Hall, where the Marianist brothers once lived, into the Chaminade Living and Learning Community. The residence is set to be completed in 2026, and will feature spaces for student collaboration, gatherings and personal development.
Renovations were funded by donations, including from the Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation.
Jill Higashi, vice president of Advancement, says the new residence aligns with key pillars in Chaminade’s strategic plan, including cultivating a dynamic and inclusive campus community and creating a sense of place, purpose and values that resonate with Catholic and Marianist principles.
A special blessing and grand opening ceremony is planned for the new year.
INTERFAITH COLLABORATION
Peter Steiger, Ph.D., a Religious Studies associate professor at Chaminade, joined scholars from around the country this summer for a prestigious seminar focused on deepening interfaith learning and cooperation across Council of Independent Colleges campuses.
The Teaching Interfaith Understanding seminar was held in Chicago, and included robust discussions on scholarly frameworks, reviews of syllabi and case studies, and special sessions on topics in higher education. Steiger said a key focus of the seminar was collaboration.
Selection for the interfaith seminar is competitive, and participants must be nominated.
Organizer Interfaith America said the gathering “provides a multidisciplinary space for participating faculty to explore the theoretical foundations and practical pedagogies of interfaith engagement in higher education.” This was the program’s 11th year.
Steiger said what he appreciated most about the seminar were the opportunities for engaging dialogue. “Hearing the speakers and faculty participants at the seminar gave me greater hope for the future of religious pluralism and interfaith understanding in America,” Steiger said.
“University campuses, both public and private, small and large, should be committed to bringing about greater interfaith understanding and respect for the diversity of religion in the world.”
BUSINESS STUDENTS CLINCH TOP PRIZE
A team of Silverswords took top honors at an international business competition, wowing the judges with their strong presentation skills and innovative marketing strategies.
Some 40 US and international university teams participated in this year’s fully virtual IACBE Live Case Competition. Students spent more than a month crafting a marketing and engagement strategy for a real company—WealthFluent—as it seeks to reach Gen Z professionals.
The winning Chaminade team included John Barayuga ’25, Blake Buonopane ’25, Madelynne Knowd ’26 and Brycen Shackelford ’26, and their first-place title meant they took home a $1,200 prize. Their winning strategy: crafting athlete and university partnerships to build a strong brand.
“Participating in this competition helped me grow by challenging me to apply real-world problem-solving skills in a collaborative environment,” said Buonopane, the team captain. “As a leader, I learned to communicate effectively and stay adaptable under pressure.”
The students tackled the challenge as part of their Business Strategy 469 course.
Eduard “Eddie” Merc, Ph.D., assistant professor of Business Administration and director of the University’s MBA program, noted that five Chaminade teams participated in the competition—held online for the first time this year.
“As mentors, we used our expertise in business analytics, marketing, and business strategies to prepare students with a comprehensive plan to solve the company’s biggest challenges,” Merc said.
YOUNG SILVERSWORD GRAD MAKES HISTORY
VERONICA “BONNIE” NAGAHISA ’25, MAT ’26 doesn’t believe in wasting time.
The 18-year-old graduated from Chaminade in May with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Three weeks later, she walked the commencement stage again at Kapaʻa High—to accept her high school diploma. Hawaiʻi Department of Education officials say she is the first student on Kauaʻi to be awarded a high school diploma and bachelor’s degree at the same time.
“For most students, earning a high school diploma is the goal. But for Bonnie, it was just the beginning,” said Kapaʻa High Principal Tommy Cox. “She’s a great example for our students, showing them that nothing is impossible with the opportunities available at Kapaʻa High.”
Nagahisa’s college journey began after eighth grade, when she started taking online courses at Kauaʻi Community College.
Her mother, Kimi Nagahisa ‘07, MEd ‘14, is an early college counselor at Kanu o ka ʻĀina Charter School and helped guide her through the process. “We try our best to mold and raise our kids, but in many ways, they teach us patience, grace, and kindness. I am just so proud of her,” Nagahisa said. By the end of her sophomore year in high school, Bonnie Nagahisa had
completed the requirements for her high school diploma—and her associate’s degree. Still “super young,” as she put it, she enrolled full-time in Chaminade’s online FLEX program to pursue her bachelor’s degree.
“I’ve always loved school, reading, writing—all things education,” she said.
Nagahisa, the eldest of seven siblings, says she was able to tackle her advanced studies, remain active at Kapaʻa High, and meet her obligations at home by maintaining a good balance.
“At the end of the day, whatever you’re striving for, it’s essential to make space for joy, peace, and connection,” she said. “Those things help ease the stress.”
Nagahisa is also an avid volunteer, donating her time at events like Relay for Life and Toys for Tots. She also made time to support nearly every school sporting event.
“Staying engaged and showing school spirit was important to me, even with a full plate,” she said.
Having graduated with her bachelor’s, Nagahisa is proud to be continuing her studies at Chaminade. She’s pursuing a master’s in teaching to become an educator—like her mom.
“At the end of the day, whatever you’re striving for, it’s essential to make space for joy, peace, and connection.”
Veronica “Bonnie” Nagahisa ’25, MAT ’26
Chaminade Partners with Hawai‘i Catholic Schools
As part of an innovative new program aimed at bolstering community health, the School of Nursing and Health Professions has partnered with Hawaiʻi Catholic Schools to place doctoral nursing students on campuses for everything from everyday ailments to health education.
There are currently students at two campuses—and plans for expansion.
Linda Malone, DNP, an associate professor of nursing, said school-based health services are oftentimes an overlooked area of community-based care. But ensuring children are healthier—and making healthier choices—can have broad positive impacts on their schooling and lives.
“School-based health and school healthcare has long been proven to keep kids healthier,” Malone said. “And if you’re keeping them healthy, you’re keeping them in school.”
She added the pilot program, made possible thanks to Marianist Sponsorship Ministries Foundation grants, is especially focused on prevention messaging. At St Joseph’s Parish School in Waipahu, Haylee Carlson, DNP ’27, put together a special health education newsletter for parents and health promotion presentations for students in third through eighth grades focusing on topics like healthy eating and exercise. At Our Lady Of Good Counsel School in Pearl City, Michelle Burns, DNP ’26, set up a tent to see students and also offered health education classes.
Dr. Llewellyn Young, superintendent of Hawaiʻi Catholic Schools, said the initiative is filling a “critical gap” by providing regular on-site care on campuses that don’t have the resources to fund a school nurse. “This pilot partnership is incredibly important to me because it directly supports the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of our students,” Young said. “More importantly, it reflects the Catholic Church’s mission to serve the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.”
Young added that Chaminade doctoral students serving on the campuses not only give administrators and teachers peace of mind, but offer proactive education on wellness and even early identification of mental health needs.
“Looking ahead, I hope to expand this partnership to more of our Catholic schools—especially those in underserved areas,” Young said.
“This is more than a healthcare initiative—it is a ministry of healing and accompaniment, and we are deeply grateful for Chaminade University’s shared commitment to this vision.”
Burns, who is at the Pearl City campus, said the program has given her a new appreciation of school-based care. As a registered nurse, Burns evaluates students who are feeling ill or have been injured on campus. But the real highlight for Burns, who is in the pediatric nurse practitioner track in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, has been developing age-appropriate educational curricula covering everything from good sleep habits to calming techniques to hygiene.
“This partnership has shown me a different part of nursing that I haven’t been exposed to yet,” Burns said. “Starting up a health room takes a lot of planning. In addition to my nursing skills, I’ve learned how to create forms specifically for school health clinics, collaborate with school administration, and communicate with parents or guardians when needed.”
Carlson, also in the pediatric nurse practitioner track, said she jumped at the opportunity to contribute at the Waipahu school after hearing about the pilot from Malone. “School health has always been an interest of mine, and I decided to go for it because it’s an excellent opportunity to give back to the community,” Carlson said. “Establishing health services will provide increased access to healthcare for children and help decrease sickness and absenteeism as a result.”
She added a highlight of the work, in addition to serving young students and providing health education programming, is working with undergraduate nursing students at Chaminade who are completing clinical hours at the Catholic schools. “This pilot has provided me the chance to solidify my assessment skills and get creative with healthcare in a school environment,” she said.
“We’re making a positive impact on these children and their families.”
Leading with Service
ABOVE: As a leader, Christine Baleto ’91 (center, in black) gets involved with and gives back to her community.
FACING PAGE: Christine Baleto ‘91 (right) visits with School of Business and Communication interim Dean Annette Taijeron Santos, DBA.
CHRISTINE BALETO ’91
Before Christine Baleto ’91 left her native Guam for college, her dad sat her down for a conversation she’ll never forget. He told her many people leave the island to pursue higher education, but too few return to use what they’ve learned to give back to the community.
“If our own people don’t come back to help improve our island and create opportunities, who will?” Baleto recalls her father asking her all those years ago. “He urged me to get my education, but more importantly, to come home and use it to serve our people and our island.
“That conversation left a lasting imprint on me. I left Guam with a clear purpose: to return.”
And that’s exactly what she did.
Today, Baleto is president and CEO of telecommunications firm Docomo Pacific, the largest provider of mobile, internet, television and phone services in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Despite her high-stress day job, Baleto still makes time to serve on nonprofit boards, volunteer her time to civic organizations and serve as a mentor to young people.
That focus on giving to others is something Baleto says was ingrained in
“True leadership is rooted in humility, kindness, and a continuous willingness to learn from others.”
Christine Baleto ’91
her throughout her childhood, and a value she was able to foster during her time at Chaminade.
While a student, she served as president of the National Honor Society and volunteered for a long list of clubs.
“That commitment to service shaped how I lead today,” she said.
Baleto came to Chaminade as a transfer student.
After graduating from high school, she headed to Eastern Oregon State College on a full scholarship. While she says she enjoyed the opportunity, Baleto struggled with the climate and the distance from her island home, so she made the decision to transfer to Hawaiʻi.
“I wanted connection and community,” Baleto said.
She found it at Chaminade.
“The intimate campus environment was exactly what I was looking for. I didn’t want to be just another face in a large lecture hall; I wanted a place where professors knew my name and where mentorship and one-on-one engagement were part of the learning experience.”
Baleto says she thrived in Chaminade’s tight-knit community and enjoyed the University’s values-based education. Chaminade’s mission of service, in particular, resonated with her. “From a young age, I felt a strong calling to serve,” she said. “My earliest passions were rooted in social service, and even as my career evolved, that sense of purpose never faded.”
It’s why today, Baleto sees her role as a leader as an opportunity to make a broader positive impact. “Returning to Guam and contributing to our community wasn’t just a personal goal. It was a responsibility I embraced, and one that continues to guide my path today,” she said.
Her message to tomorrow’s leaders at Chaminade is twofold.
First, she says, there is no substitute for hard work.
And secondly: “True leadership is rooted in humility, kindness, and a continuous willingness to learn from others,” Baleto said. “If you aspire to be a leader or a changemaker, remember you cannot do it alone. Real, lasting change happens when you empower those around you.”
Baleto said her Chaminade years were formative, including in helping her develop her community-focused leadership style. And this spring, Baleto had something of a full circle moment when she got the opportunity to visit campus for the first time since she’d graduated.
“Stepping onto campus 30 years later brought back so many wonderful memories— of the professors who knew me by name, the close-knit community, and all the ways I was active as a student,” she said. “I was especially proud to see how much the University has grown.”
Baleto added she’s grateful to be part of Chaminade’s past, present and future. “Chaminade is not merely a place to earn a degree,” she said. “It is a community that fosters one’s values, stimulates intellectual growth, and equips individuals with the skills necessary for purposeful leadership.”
Remembering Merv Lopes
BY ERIC BOVAIRD
Merv Lopes, a coaching legend in men’s basketball and a beloved member of the Chaimade ʻohana, passed away in May at the age of 92. Lopes is remembered for his upsets over NCAA Division I teams, including that historic 1982 game when the Silverswords defeated No. 1 Virginia. But off the court, Lopes also made a significant impact as a mentor and an educator. In this remembrance, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Eric Bovaird honors the man—and coaching titan—Merv Lopes.
FLASHBACK 14 YEARS AGO. I was a first-time head coach moving to Hawaiʻi to take over a historic program in Chaminade University men’s basketball. I had only been to Hawaiʻi one other time—for my honeymoon. There were plenty of nervous feelings taking over such an iconic program.
And to be clear, this program is iconic thanks in large part to one person: Merv Lopes.
Between the incredible upsets his teams had, to his larger-than-life persona, he was a legend.
Upon landing in Hawaiʻi, I knew one of the first people I needed to meet and get to know was Merv. Luckily for me, within the first days of my arrival, I found out that Merv was in town to oversee an elite basketball camp known as the Pete Newell Big Man Camp.
The camp was well known across the basketball world for developing “big men,” aka “centers,” in the game of basketball. I decided to drive up to Mānoa and see Merv.
From the moment I met him and watched him in action, I realized why he was so special.
If you are around young people these days, you will probably hear them use the phrase “positive aura” and sometimes attach a number system with it. The dictionary defines aura as “the distinctive atmosphere that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place.”
In this case, Merv was the person, basketball was the thing, and Hawaiʻi was the place. Every time I’ve been with Merv over the years, I have felt that positive
aura. And when I would see him interact with others, I could tell they felt that way, too.
In the camp, I watched Merv be really tough on guys, yet they responded with great effort and a willingness to learn. Merv had a special gift in the ability to get the most out of the talent given.
After the camp was over, I had a chance to sit and talk to him for a while. In that talk, he gave me some great advice that I cherish to this day. He said, “Treat the ‘āina and people with great respect and love, and they will both respect and love you back.”
It’s something anyone coming to Hawai‘i should hear.
On that first visit, he also gave me another piece of advice. “Be yourself as a head coach,” he told me. “Don’t try and be someone you are not. Trust in yourself and you’ll find success.”
BELOW LEFT: Silversword men’s basketball Head Coach Eric Bovaird pays tribute to Merv Lopes in this essay.
BELOW, RIGHT: Silversword supporters (from left to right) Jeff Buich ‘85, Ed Smith ‘84, Jasen Stricklend ‘84, Merv Lopes, Timothy Dunham, M.Ed. ‘19, Tom Buning, and Cameron Lopes pose for a photo.
After that warm welcome from Merv, I felt so much more at ease and eager to take on this responsibility— not only to my players, but Chaminade University and the community as a whole.
In the years that followed, I would see Merv at least two to three times a year, and each time that positive aura would resonate. My second year of coaching, Merv was sitting courtside for the 2012 Maui Invitational when we beat the nationally-ranked Texas Longhorns. I couldn’t help but think his presence gave my team and me the confidence to pull off such an upset.
After all, the “Giant Killers” had struck again.
If you haven’t heard it, “Giant Killers” is what the basketball world calls us here at Chaminade because of those many incredible upsets Merv’s teams pulled off.
One thing I miss the most is hearing Merv talk about his upbringing and the influential people in his life. He had a special place in his heart for underprivileged kids, and always encouraged me to give them a chance whenever possible despite the challenges they may have had at the start.
He taught me so much as to how my influence can shape and mold these kids and give them life-changing
opportunities—like that 1982 upset.
After all, that win is still the stuff of legend. Whenever I have a Chaminade shirt on, no matter where I am in the world, someone usually brings up that magical game. It’s how I know that Merv’s legend and legacy will live on forever.
A hui hou, coach!
MAKE A GIFT TODAY on our Giving website by selecting Merv Lopes Endowed Scholarship.
You can also mail a check to: Chaminade University Office of Advancement 3140 Waialae Ave, Ching 211 Honolulu, HI 96816
For questions or to make a donation by phone, call Stewardship and Scholarships Manager Jimmy Tran at (808) 735-4764.
MERV LOPES ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP
Established in 2023, the Merv Lopes Endowed Scholarship provides financial support to student-athletes in men’s or women’s basketball who may not have the highest grades or may have had some disciplinary issues in the past. The scholarship honors Lopes’ lifelong work to see the potential in all students—and offer second chances to those who need them.
ABOVE: Merv Lopes’ career at Chaminade spanned 12 seasons, with a career record of 238-118. Photo courtesy of Honolulu Star-Advertiser Archive
Celebrating
IN 1964, Chaminade founding President Fr. Robert Mackey, S.M., was asked by a Honolulu Advertiser editor to articulate his vision for the University as it prepared to mark a decade since having welcomed a first class of 40 students. His answer: Our goal is to develop leaders for tomorrow.
Mackey’s comments were prescient in today’s world of AI breakthroughs.
“The people who can survive in an automated society are the creative people,” Mackey told the newspaper, adding, “Our objective is to turn out persons who have developed creative imaginations and creative minds, which are essential to leadership in a rapidly changing world.”
Much has changed at Chaminade since Mackey sat at its helm. As the University celebrates its 70th anniversary, Chaminade can boast state-of-the-art facilities, world-class faculty members, cutting-edge and hands-on educational opportunities, and eight master’s and five doctoral degrees in addition to its broad range of undergraduate offerings.
But amid all that institutional growth, Chaminade’s mission— its focus and foundation of leadership development and service— has remained the same. To help tell that story of growth, seven decades after Chaminade’s founding, we turned to members of the Silversword ‘ohana so they could share their own Chaminade journeys and how the University has impacted their lives.
Here are their stories.
Isaac Noguchi ’27
FOR ISAAC NOGUCHI ’27, CHAMINADE IS LIKE FAMILY—LITERALLY.
The Noguchi clan has a long history at the University, starting with Anne Noguchi ’60, who is Isaac’s grandmother. His father, along with several aunts and uncles, are also alumni, and he has cousins who are currently attending or have graduated from the University.
“I learned a lot about Chaminade through constant exposure to it growing up,” he says.
So when it came time for him to go to college, he looked at Chaminade first. Noguchi says he wanted to remain in the islands, and he was called by Chaminade’s tight-knit, warm atmosphere.
An Environmental Studies major, Noguchi has been most impressed by the number of hands-on learning opportunities he’s participated in. For one science class, students took a trip to Makapu‘u Beach to measure tide pools and assess biodiversity. “Getting to learn directly from the environment we’re trying to protect made the lesson unforgettable,” he says.
In addition to attending Chaminade full-time, Noguchi is a student worker at the University’s Office of Advancement, an experience that’s allowed him to see how “connected and supportive” the Chaminade community is. “The people I work with genuinely care about each other,” he says.
As Chaminade turns 70, he says what resonates for him most about the University is how professors and staff members do whatever they can to ensure students succeed.
“It’s easy to form close connections with your professors, and there is a lot of opportunity to be found,” he says.
Robert “Doug” Aton ’75
AS A RETIRED HONOLULU POLICE
DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT CHIEF, ROBERT “DOUG” ATON ’75 knows the special value of public service. His message to today’s Chaminade students is similar to what his own Silversword mentors encouraged him to do 50 years ago: Use what you learn to help others.
“My advice to students would be to define your classroom experience through impactful and need-based community engagement rooted in Marianist, Native Hawaiian values,” he said. “And show respect and appreciation for the diversity of cultures that make up the people of Hawai‘i.”
Aton enrolled at Chaminade University thanks to a congressional program that helped police officers further their educations. At the time, Aton was raising a young family and juggling a hectic schedule at work, but he was committed to improving himself—and his community.
At Chaminade, he quickly found a diverse and lively campus that aligned with his values.
“What resonated with me would be the focus on the development of moral character and personal competencies, and a commitment to build a just and peaceful society,” Aton says.
“These are core values and traits that must be a part of every police officer’s DNA.”
Aton says the value of Chaminade’s service-learning program can’t be overstated. It not only allows students to participate in service projects that benefit the community, he says, but also promotes a broader sense of civic responsibility and brings relevancy to classroom learning.
After graduating from Chaminade, Aton went on to earn a master’s degree in education.
And though he’s happily retired, he’s never stopped working with the community in emergency preparedness and security roles, or giving back with participation on a long list of boards. “It was important to give back to my community,” he says, “which instilled within me a moral compass.”
EMERITUS BIOLOGY PROFESSOR RON IWAMOTO retired from Chaminade in 2012 but still regularly receives email updates from former students and never misses a chance to catch up over lunch.
“I always believed if we want our students to perform well, we should know what affects their performance. This carries over past graduation, when they are in professions,” he says.
“It is a pleasure to see your students succeed. It’s why we teach.”
Iwamoto says he taught his first biology course at Chaminade in the summer of 1967. Lyndon B. Johnson was president. The Doors’ “Light My Fire” was at the top of the charts. And Iwamoto was certain that he’d found his dream job. He was right—and he’s got the memories to prove it.
He vividly recalls taking biology students on study trips to see the biological diversity of the Hawaiian Islands in all of their splendor, from Kīlauea volcano on the Big Island to the reef off Ala Moana Beach Park. During his tenure at Chaminade, Iwamoto also served as a university leader, including as department chair for the biology program and on a long list of University committees.
He says what always resonated most with him about Chaminade was its sense of community. “Chaminade started as a small liberal arts college with Marianist Catholic values as its core,” he says. “Although it is no longer small in enrollment and diversity of the student body, it retains the feeling of ‘smallness’ in that students and faculty know each other well. You aren’t a number but a member of the University community, and students and faculty interact on a personal level.”
As Chaminade celebrates 70 years, Iwamoto says he’s immensely proud to say he contributed to the University’s growth and story. But more than anything, he’s proud to say he mentored countless students, giving them the confidence, skills and the guidance they needed to succeed.
Professor Emeritus Ron Iwamoto
Julieann Tupuola ’16, MEd ’19
CHAMINADE DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES
JULIEANN TUPUOLA ’16, MED ’19, IS ALL ABOUT ACTION. She doesn’t want to talk about helping people or changing things for the better; she wants to roll up her sleeves and make it happen. That’s what first attracted her to Chaminade and it’s what keeps her inspired.
“Students learn outside the confines of a classroom through service to their communities,” she says. And as a Chaminade alumna, Tupuola would know. She still distinctly recalls helping to build homes for Habitat for Humanity as part of an accounting class when she was an undergraduate. Part of making accounting recommendations was learning how the nonprofit serves clients.
“We were out there in the field literally seeing what it takes to make their mission of building homes for Native Hawaiian families come to life, from the materials to labor,” she says. “From that experience, we took the principles taught through the textbook and drew up our findings.”
After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Chaminade, Tupuola landed a job in the University’s Facilities Department and later earned her master’s of education in instructional leadership from Chaminade. Tupuola says she sees the University, and its Marianist values of service and peace, as a “guiding light” for students, faculty, staff and the community.
As the University marks its 70th anniversary, Tupuola is grateful for her own Chaminade experiences—and excited about what the future holds for the University. “Chaminade actually does what it says when they talk about educating the student as a whole and teaching them to make a difference in the community,” she says.
“And as a graduate, you never really leave Chaminade. No matter how far you go, Chaminade is always here for you. ”
Koreen Nakahodo, Ph.D.
IN JANUARY, KOREEN NAKAHODO, PH.D., AN ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH, received the Chaminade Award for embracing Marianist values in education and undertaking “the intellectual life as a form of service in the interest of justice and truth.” It was an honor 27 years in the making.
After all, it was in 1998 that Nakahodo started her journey at Chaminade University— as an adjunct professor. Then, in 2022, she defended her dissertation and was buoyed by the support she received from her University ’ohana. “Faculty members helped me to prepare for my defense, and several even came to watch me defend my dissertation,” Nakahodo says.
That sense of community extends across campus, she says.
It’s why in addition to teaching courses and participating in service-learning opportunities at Chaminade, she’s also active at the University’s Center for Teaching and Learning. “I love being a part of the faculty learning community,” she says. “It speaks to an ongoing interest in education.”
On the occasion of Chaminade’s 70th anniversary, she says she’s grateful to be working in a community that embraces her and understands the value of giving back.
“I feel lucky to be able to learn from both my colleagues and my students,” she says, adding that she especially enjoys inspiring the next generation of Hawai‘i leaders to use their talents and skills for good.
SOMETIMES, SCHOOL OF NURSING AND HEALTH PROFESSIONS DEAN LORIN RAMOCKI HAS TO PINCH HERSELF when she reflects on how lucky she is. While she enjoyed her work in nursing, she says she’s found her calling in education—and supporting students as they grow into successful professionals.
Ramocki joined Chaminade as an assistant professor in 2017. She says she first learned about Chaminade while working in the community. “They were actually doing a presentation, and I was so impressed,” she says. “I thought, “Where are these students from?’ So I looked up Chaminade.”
She says that transitioning from a clinical setting to teaching at a university was an adjustment, but one that she instantly embraced. “I absolutely loved it—loved working with students, being able to see them learn and grow, and watching them advance in their academic careers,” she says.
Ramocki says being a professor has allowed her to build rich learning experiences that resonate with students and incorporate community needs and real-world experiences. “It’s all about giving back,” she says. “That’s something our curriculum fosters—that strong sense of community.”
One of the most gratifying aspects of Ramocki’s job, she adds, is seeing former students build robust careers and then return to Chaminade to serve as adjunct faculty members, teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals. “Chaminade has had such a big and lasting impact on the community,” she says. “For 70 years, we’ve prepped grads who are skilled in their fields.”
Lorin Ramocki, DNP, RN
CM: What are some of your top priorities as you take on this new position?
FM: First of all, I would say that former Rector and Vice President of Mission, Bro. Ed Brink, laid a very good foundation. He has generated a lot of support and respect across the University for this role. One of the things that he was influential in building and that I would like to continue to enhance is the Marianist Educational Associates (MEA) program. The MEA program invites members of the faculty and staff to learn about the history of the Marianist spirit and charism so they can more fully embrace the educational mission at Chaminade. It gives them language to be more intentional about the Marianist educational mission here, and it builds important bonds across campus. Another program I’m focused on is the Chaminade Scholars. It’s a faith formation program for students who participate in retreats, mentoring sessions, monthly formational sessions, and community service. This past year, we had a combination of good dynamics and great speakers. It just clicked in a really good way.
CM: How are you reflecting on Chaminade’s 70th anniversary?
FM: I like to think of it as seven decades of service to this city and this diocese. Our mission of Catholic education, service for peace, social justice and community building is really core to everything we do here—and that has been the case since the very beginning. But there is also much more potential!
CM: Why does Chaminade’s mission resonate with you?
FM: Chaminade is not just providing an education; it is also serving the state and local communities. Just one example is our prison-based education program— participants get the opportunity to earn their associate’s degree while incarcerated so they can begin a new chapter in their lives. Along with getting a degree, they’re building up self-confidence and credentials. It’s about rehabilitation and the power of education, and that’s just part and parcel of what we do here.
Living the Marianist Mission
Father Martin Solma, S.M., officially took the reins as Chaminade’s vice president for mission and rector July 1. Previously serving as the University’s chaplain, and with five decades of service to the Marianist Family, Solma says he’s excited about the challenge and looks forward to continuing the work of his predecessor, Bro. Edward Brink, S.M., now Director of Novices for the Marianist Province of the United States. Here’s what Solma is focused on—in his own words.
CM: How is Chaminade preparing leaders for tomorrow?
FM: We’re concerned about the development of the whole person— intellectually, in terms of faith, and by providing education for the future (we call it “adaptation and change”). There’s a lot of talk these days about the value of a university education. The real benefit of a Catholic and Marianist education is the development of the whole person. That’s also a return on investment. It’s not only earnings: it’s also ethics. It’s a life vocation—not just what kind of work you’re going to do, but what sort of person you will be, what you’re going to do with your life, and what unique contribution you can make to our world. That is the real return on investment—and that is what Chaminade University does very well.
Got GRIT?
CHAMINADE STUDENT-ATHLETES HAVE GRIT. THAT IS, GRATITUDE, RESPECT, INTEGRITY AND TRUST. And at a special event in the spring, they got to show it off.
The Chaminade Athletics Department has joined forces with Campus Ministry for the annual GRIT program, aimed at spotlighting core values that will serve student-athletes “well into their futures,” said Fr. Martin Solma, S.M., vice president of mission and rector.
At GRIT gatherings in January and February, some 170 participating student-athletes engaged in activities and heard from speakers about what it means to take what they have learned in sports to the campus community. The message to attendees: You’ve got GRIT—why not share it?
Sebastian Castro ’25, who played baseball at Chaminade, said juggling athletics and academics could get difficult, so he appreciated hearing that he could bring something special to campus.
“It gets overwhelming dealing with our studies and also the stress and anxiety of playing in our sports,” Castro said.
“Being able to manage both of those and find a balance shows grit.”
Emily Cooper ’27 competes in women’s cross-country and is studying Environmental Interior Design. She said she walked away from the GRIT event with new friendships with fellow student-athletes and “self-reflections that grew out of group discussions and prayers.”
“Getting to know strangers can be a great part of self-confidence because it helped me learn more about myself as a group listener and speaker,” she said.
“My favorite part was listening to everyone’s goals and life journeys. Hearing the diverse backgrounds of everyone was inspiring and really made me realize the biggest steps in life come from accepting new opportunities.”
Dustyn Ragasa ‘07, Ph.D. , director of the Master of Pastoral Theology program and an assistant professor of Religious Studies and Philosophy, said studentathletes are in an “excellent position to be ‘women and men for others,’ a key characteristic of Catholic education.”
He said he was honored to speak to students at the GRIT gatherings and hoped they walked away with a “greater sense of confidence in the best of themselves”—along with some new memories.
He added events like GRIT are important to helping students come together, reflect and have a little fun. “For busy student-athletes, it can be a challenge to set aside some time just to talk story or to share a meal,” he said. “GRIT reminds students about the faith dimension of their lives.”
Climbing Higher
What better way to learn sport and event management than by putting on an event?
And not just any event.
In the spring, Chaminade Sport and Event Management students helped organize a colossal, day-long career fair for more than 650 high school and college students.
The students partnered with nonprofit ClimbHI, which is focused on career development, to put on the annual LEI (Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration) gathering at the Hawai’i Convention Center.
Wendy Lam, Ph.D., MBA ‘89, a professor of Business Administration and Sport Event Management (SEM) at Chaminade, said students were charged with tackling all manner of logistics for the April 14 event as part of their senior field experience class—from venue operations to coordinating presenters.
The fair featured over 60 Hawai’i businesses and organizations sharing career opportunities in short “speed-dating”style segments. Attendees also learned about what types of preparation different jobs require and the internships that might be available to them as they build skills.
Lam said the project is meant to be impactful—and fun.
“It’s a very meaningful project in that our students can apply everything that they have learned, from accounting to marketing to management and human resources,” she said.
Loke Yokoyama ’25 was among the students who worked on the project.
“As a Chaminade student, we got to help with the planning and coordinating of the event,” Yokoyama said. “It was a lot of fun using my skills that I have obtained at Chaminade.”
The best part? “Working as a team,” she said.
The Silverswords even made the ti leaf lei to welcome presenters from participating businesses.
John Paul Pacura ’25 said helping to plan the major event from start to finish was an opportunity to show off what they’d learned and get
real-world experience. “One of the biggest takeaways from this event is utilizing all the skills we have learned at Chaminade over four years,” said Pacura.
The project was a culminating experience for Chaminade’s first cohort of Sport and Event Management graduates, who walked the commencement stage in May. Lam noted that the SEM bachelor’s program at Chaminade is the first and only degree of its kind in the state—and comes as the sport and event industry is growing at a fast pace and needs more trained professionals.
She said a core focus of the program is offering real, hands-on projects. In addition to the event planning experience, students take on internships for academic credit with a long list of organizations, including the Honolulu Marathon, Sony Open, and LPGA.
And in November, students will put on a “unity prom” for roughly 60 special education students coming from across West Oʻahu. Lam said students are particularly excited about arranging that event for the first time. “Job growth in this industry is above average,” she said. “That’s why our program is interdisciplinary and focused on opportunities to work in our communities.”
ABOVE & LEFT: Chaminade Sport and Event Management students helped plan the annual LEI (Leadership, Exploration, Inspiration) gathering from start to finish.
RYAN SCUDDER, MSCP ’12
Guiding Young Minds
As the director of College Counseling for Punahou School, Ryan Scudder, MSCP ’12, has conversations with young people all the time about what they want to study, who they want to be, and how they see themselves impacting the world in positive ways.
He says his approach to students is informed by his own college and career trajectory—and the lessons he learned along the way. Scudder got his bachelor’s degree in public relations, but says he quickly realized the field wasn’t for him. Instead, his work in coaching led him to a new passion.
“Had I been more informed about public relations, I probably would have chosen a different pathway,” he said. “But after graduating from high school, I got into coaching volleyball. I enjoyed working with young people and that led me to the counseling program at Chaminade.”
After weighing his options, he enrolled in Chaminade’s Master of Science in Counseling Psychology program, and it wasn’t long before he knew he’d made the right choice. He enjoyed the classes but appreciated the opportunities for hands-on learning even more. His practicum and experience at ‘Aiea High gave him the confidence to jump into the field, he said.
“I really felt like it helped from day one,” he said.
The MSCP program at Chaminade also changed his life in another big way: it’s where he met his future wife, Lisa Agarijo, MSCP ’12, a college counselor at Waipahu. And Chaminade is even part of Scudder’s daily life at work, as two members of his counseling team are Silverswords.
Scudder landed his first college counseling job at St. Francis School in Mānoa and then joined Punahou about a decade ago. This is his third year as the director of college counseling, overseeing
“I’m really grateful for the MSCP program at Chaminade because it helped me channel my passion and prepared me for the career that I’m in now.”
Ryan Scudder, MSCP ’12
seven full-time college counselors at a campus with a 99 percent college-going rate. College counseling outreach, Scudder said, starts in earnest when students are in the 11th grade. “We start with a college guidance class, laying the foundation for them so they can understand the process and the timeline,” he said. “From there, we work with them through graduation day.”
Scudder says it’s important for college counselors to get into the logistics of applying for and selecting the right university. But just as important is asking students questions about what they envision for their college experience. “A lot of the process starts with them figuring out their own needs,” he said, noting that students at Punahou apply to nine separate colleges on average.
“We’re always looking to help students identify colleges that would be a good fit,” he said.
“Even more so,” he added, “we want them to be purposeful about where they’re applying,” Because as Scudder himself realized, when reflecting on his own experiences in higher education, fit truly is everything. “I’m really grateful for the MSCP program at Chaminade because it helped me channel my passion and prepared me for the career that I’m in now,” he said.
He added, “The same could be said for so many college counselors here in the Islands.”
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International Extravaganza
International Extravaganza, a signature event at Chaminade, celebrates Pacific Island culture, food and entertainment. The gathering this spring was no exception, with attendees cheering on high-energy student performances from Ka Ipu Kukui Me Ka ʻie ʻie (the Hawaiian Club), Taotao Marianas Club, Filipino Club, and Lumanaʻi O Samoa.
Educating for Change
ABOVE: The Spring 2025 graduates of Chaminade’s prison education program received well wishes from Eduard “Eddie” Merc, Ph.D., MBA Program director; President Lynn Babington, Ph.D.; Provost Lance Askildson, Ph.D..; Richard Kido, MBA associate professor, accounting; and Janet Davidson, Ph.D., vice provost.
Eddieson Reyes ’25 never imagined he would be able to attain a college degree.
So for him, graduating from Chaminade’s prison education program in May with an associate’s degree in business administration was as much about achieving a milestone as it was about celebrating a new beginning. “It’s an eye-opener for me, gaining new knowledge,” he said.
The old Eddieson, he said, hated school. The new one? Can’t get enough.
Reyes was among nine men honored at a special commencement ceremony in May at Halawa Correctional Facility. The AA graduates were the second cohort in Chaminade’s program at the prison; a third cohort kicked off their business administration studies at Halawa this fall.
Janet Davidson, Ph.D. vice provost for Academic Affairs at Chaminade, said the prison education program was “created with the belief that all individuals deserve to benefit from the transformative power of education and contribute to their communities.”
Since the program’s launch, 17 incarcerated men in the Islands have earned associate’s degrees—two of whom went on to pursue bachelor’s degrees from Chaminade following their release. Next year, the University hopes to begin offering distance education courses to Hawaiʻi residents incarcerated at the Saguaro Correctional
Facility in Arizona, and there are plans to further expand to the Women’s Community Correctional Center in Kailua in 2027.
Chaminade is also serving as a leading voice in the work to bolster the workforce pipeline for formerly incarcerated individuals. In June, Davidson and her prison education team organized the Pathways to Meaningful Work Symposium at Chaminade for scores of policymakers, corrections officials, nonprofit advocates, and educators. Follow-up summits are also planned.
The program at Halawa Correctional Center is a partnership with the Hawaiʻi Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. At the commencement in May, Director Tommy Johnson said the effort aligns closely with the “core mission” of the agency—providing those in custody with programming designed to “successfully reintegrate them back into society upon release.”
Those who have gone through the program say it also offers a second chance.
“Growing up, I was pretty good in school, but I just started following the wrong crowd,” said Tyrone Molina ’25 after the commencement ceremony in May. “This was a chance for me to redeem myself, show the world what I’m capable of, and be able to provide for myself and my family.”
“This proves that I’m capable of doing things that I never thought I could,” the 38-year-old added.
Oscar Kanoa ’25 said earning a college degree has given him new confidence.
“It shows the perseverance we’ve had,” he said.
Through the program, Chaminade faculty teach courses at the correctional facility.
The graduates completed 20 courses and accumulated 60 credits over five semesters to earn their associate’s degrees. The AA in Business Administration includes foundational coursework in business principles, communication and critical thinking.
Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., said the program exemplifies the University’s Catholic, Marianist mission. “These men have overcome so many obstacles that most of us can’t even imagine,” she said. “They are well on their way to being resilient, to taking care of themselves and moving forward with their life’s path, and we are so proud of that.”
Among those in attendance at the graduation ceremony were Reyes’ two daughters. He said both are in college themselves, and he’s proud that he can serve as a positive role model for them.
“I’m trying to show them that if I can do it, they can do it,” he said.
ABOVE: Graduate Tyrone Molina ‘25 poses with Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D. during a special commencement ceremony at Halawa Correctional Facility.
The Silversword women’s soccer team, celebrating a string of winning seasons, has championship goals.
FIELD
DREAM
OF MS
Team culture is everything to Silversword head women’s soccer Coach Michelle Richardson.
“We have a holistic view of what our purpose is as a coaching staff,” Richardson says. “Most importantly, we believe athletics is a vehicle for our students to get an education. We’re the icing on the cake, not the cake. But also for us, we believe in giving our players a chance to compete at a high level and build their confidence so they can be the best version of themselves.”
It’s an approach that’s worked well for Richardson, her fellow coaching staff and her players. Women’s soccer at Chaminade wrapped up 2024 with a fifth straight winning season and looks to hit even higher heights this year. Over the summer, players focused on building their strength and cardiovascular fitness while also solidifying connections on the field—and off.
Richardson says while the team’s win record is important to her, there’s another number that makes her beam: The team’s collective GPA. It was 3.68 last year— evidence of how Richardson sets a high bar for her players in academics and athletics. But while she may provide guidance for her players, she says the work of setting goals and actually achieving them is all about them.
“They set the standard at which they want to perform,” she says. “It comes internally, from the team. They hold themselves accountable. They put the work in.” And right now, Richardson says, women’s soccer at Chaminade is on the “precipice of extraordinary success, that tipping point.”
Haley Mo‘okini ’26, who plays center back on the team and is majoring in psychology, agrees.
Her mantra for the new season: Pacific West Championship tournament or bust. “We’ve learned when times get tough you need to push for your team, because we all want to reach the same goal,” she says. “We are heavy on character. The culture is competitive, but always supportive.”
Other than big wins in 2024, she said, a major highlight for the year was a team trip to Japan.
Richardson coordinated the opportunity thanks to a connection she made in the community, and players raised funds to cover costs. While there in August, the Chaminade women squared off against two teams from Japanese universities and three semi-professional or pro teams.
“Japan was an amazing experience,” Mo‘okini says. “It was interesting to learn about another culture but also to play against really good teams. Taking this trip made our team a lot closer, and we really got to understand how to play with one another and how to welcome new players.”
Kenna Kiefer ’27, who plays forward/striker on the team, says a concept the team adopted in Japan is kaizen. “It translates to continuous improvement,” Kiefer says, adding, “The Japanese players compete as a collective whole, instead of individually. They model kaizen in every touch on the ball as well as their behavior off of the field. They want to constantly get better.”
Kiefer says she looks forward to applying kaizen on the field this year.
She also thinks the concept will pay dividends in life for her teammates. “The most characteristic feature of this program’s culture that is represented through our players is attention to detail,” she says. “Character is such a large part of our culture, and we have high standards for ourselves.”
ANSON EKAU ’25
Reaching for the Stars
“That small moment made a huge impact on me. It showed me how much Dr. Chong genuinely cares about his students, not just as learners but as people.”
Anson Ekau ’25 on meeting Rylan Chong ’10, Ph.D., director of data science at Chaminade
Anson Ekau ‘25 (in blue) presents his research at a recent Chaminade symposium.
Anson Ekau ’25 says he has a long list of professors and mentors to thank for all that he accomplished at Chaminade. And as he kicks off a promising career in data science, he’s not only looking for new opportunities to grow—he’s looking for new ways to give back.
“I truly believe that once you’ve made progress, it’s your responsibility to turn back and help the next person in line,” said Ekau, who double majored in computer science and data science, analytics and visualization at Chaminade and is pursuing a future in aerospace.
That drive to serve others was something Ekau learned at an early age.
Ekau said his father spent his career helping low-income families on the west side of Oʻahu. “He made sure their needs were met and that the kids had opportunities to succeed,” Ekau said. “Through his example, I learned what empathy, courage, and true service look like.”
So it’s little wonder that Ekau found Chaminade to be a perfect fit.
At a university with a strong servicefocused mission, Ekau quickly hit his stride with volunteering opportunities
and student leadership programming. And in Chaminade’s Data Science program, he also discovered a way to combine his passion for everything cyber with his love for helping others.
Ekau said he still fondly recalls meeting Rylan Chong ’10, Ph.D., director of data science at Chaminade, for the first time. A friend introduced the two at the Silversword Café early one morning and they shared a meal. “We talked about life and had a genuine conversation,” Ekau said.
Three months later, Ekau signed up for Chong’s computer science class and was “honestly shocked” when he was greeted by name on his first day. “He remembered me, and I didn’t think he would,” Ekau said, adding, “That small moment made a huge impact on me. It showed me how much Dr. Chong genuinely cares about his students, not just as learners but as people.”
In the data science program, Ekau was quickly connected to a host of hands-on learning opportunities, including internships with Mission Technologies, MC3 Technologies, US Space Force, Texas Advanced Computing Center, Supporting Pacific Indigenous Computing Excellence (SPICE) Data Science Summer Institute, and Maunalua Fishpond Heritage Center, which he partnered with to build a dash-
LEFT: Anson Ekau ‘25 (in brown) was able to participate in a number of internships as a student at Chaminade.
board that monitors fishpond health and restoration.
Ekau said those internships helped him build new skills and apply them, work with technologically advanced equipment and projects, and learn from leaders in the field.
“During my time at Chaminade, I was very fortunate to participate in programs and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today,” he said. “I have participated in numerous internships and programs, and presented at conferences, even to military leaders.”
He said all those experiences “helped me grow both academically, professionally, and personally.”
Most recently, Ekau worked with Hawaiʻi cybersecurity firm MC3 Technologies, where he developed and launched a course covering the basics of machine learning and cybersecurity for students in Waianaʻe. “I’ve been mentoring students through this program, and it’s been especially meaningful because it’s so similar to the work my father did,”
Ekau said. “In many ways, I feel like I’m following in his footsteps, using technology as a tool for empowerment, equity, and service.”
Ekau said his long-term dream is starting his own space-focused company.
As he continues on the pathway toward that big goal, he’s looking back at the many people who helped him along the way.
“I’ve been truly blessed to have had the opportunities I’ve experienced during my time at Chaminade,” Ekau said. “But none of it would have been possible without the mentors and professors who believed in me—and, most importantly, took a chance on me.”
Fostering Research
“Investigating human mast cell degranulation and membrane alterations due to nanoplastic exposure”
“TikTok and the age of digital propaganda”
“Evaluating the effectiveness of culturally tailored diet programs for indigenous Hawaiians”
Those are just a handful of the more than two dozen projects Chaminade students presented on at this year’s Na Liko Na’auao, an annual symposium aimed at showcasing undergraduate research.
Amber Noguchi, Ph.D., assistant provost for Undergraduate Research and Pre-Professional Programs at Chaminade, said participating students each worked on their research projects under the mentorship of a faculty member.
“Na Liko Na‘auao not only represents a milestone accomplishment for our students, but a stepping stone for those who plan to pursue careers in various sectors,” she said.
The April 16 symposium was also an opportunity to celebrate the hard work of undergraduate
researchers and their scholarship, Noguchi added.
“This venue celebrates their hard work. They are able to practice their communication skills, explore their strengths and identify areas for improvement, and get feedback on their work from faculty, staff and peers,” she said.
Hailey Kekumu ’25, who majored in biology, presented her research on nanoplastic exposure.
“The focus of my research is on how exposure to nanoplastics, which are less than one micrometer in size, affects our
immune system, an important mediator between us and our environment,” she said.
Kekumu added that she hopes to continue her research and potentially pursue medicine.
“My project is more immunology based, which was my primary interest when I first started here at Chaminade. My mentor also mentioned that research on nanoplastics is still relatively new, so our research serves as a sort of foundation for future studies looking into nanoplastics,” she said.
Zach McClellan ’25, who majored in psychology with
a minor in criminal justice, studied the impact of occupational stressors on firefighters. He said the feedback from fellow student researchers, faculty members and others at the symposium was incredibly valuable—and positive.
“At first I was a little nervous, but I was able to remind myself that I’m having a conversation with others about what I’m passionate about, which kept me grounded,” he said. “There were a lot of graduate students that I was able to speak to about their programs, and I learned a lot.”
McClellan added he hopes to continue his research with a doctoral degree in neuroscience or psychology. “I am excited about pursuing this because I come from a family of firefighters,” he said.
“I also enjoy doing research in general because I am able to chase my own ideas and back them up with strong statistical data,” he said.
“Firefighter mental health is a very under-researched issue, which I aim to add to.”
LEFT: Participants and mentors in this year’s undergraduate research symposium, Na Liko Na’auao, pose for a photo.
ALUMNI HAPPENINGS
Alumni Meet-ups in California: Silverswords in the Golden State came together in March to reconnect and reminisce about their time at Chaminade, from playing sports to the joys of life in the residence halls. With the help of alumni, Chaminade organized two gatherings in California—one in Huntington Beach and the second in San José. Attendees said the reconnect was long overdue. “My Chaminade experience was amazing, and gathering with fellow Silversword alumni feels like home,” said Ryan Ashton ’02.
Newest Hall of Fame Inductees Honored: South Sudanese-Australian basketball player Kuany Kuany ’17, who competed in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, and longtime Silversword athletics supporters Judith and William Garrett (Board of Regent) are the newest inductees into Chaminade’s Athletics Hall of Fame. The three were honored at the University’s Silversword Gala on March 29.
Time-Honored Ceremony:
Graduating nursing students at Chaminade gathered in May for the traditional Pinning Ceremony, which commemorates the completion of their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees. The Office of Alumni Relations organized a special mimosa toast to mark their accomplishments and celebrate these Silverswords as they begin their careers.
Pau Hana Fun: More than 50 alumni, students, faculty, and staff came together at a School of Business and Communication mixer in April to reconnect, network and celebrate professional achievements. The evening was also an opportunity for the school to honor two outstanding graduating seniors: John Barayuga ’25 and Blake Buonopane ’25.
Graduation Parties:
The first graduating cohorts for Chaminade’s Doctor in Educational Psychology and Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy programs gathered on campus before Spring Commencement to celebrate. There was good food, good company and lots of good fun!
Spring Commencement:
Chaminade University celebrated its 67th annual Spring Commencement ceremonies on May 3, recognizing the achievements of Class of 2025 graduates as they embark on their next big adventures and prepare to drive positive change in their communities.
Recent Alumni Gathering: Recent Silversword alumni shared a fun evening on May 22 at Sports Box Hawaii, complete with ‘ono pūpū and putting challenges! Alyssa (Tanigawa) Chinen ‘19 is an owner and co-founder of Sports Box.
ALUMNI CLASS NOTES
1960s
David Hamilton ’63 (Business Management) and Lorraine Hamilton ’64 (Latin) first met in the hallways at Chaminade in 1961. They were engaged in 1964, married in 1965, and celebrated their 60th anniversary on July 3, 2025. They credit Chaminade with bringing their hearts together. PHOTOS 1 & 2
David Hamilton ’63 and Lorraine Hamilton ’64 pose together on July 3, 1965 and in a recent photograph.
Sr. Katherine Francis-Miller, SSCC ’63 (General Studies), was honored as the Hawai‘i Catholic Schools Administrator of the Year for her nearly six decades of dedicated service at Sacred Hearts Academy. As campus minister and director of the Office of Mission, Francis-Miller has “shaped the hearts, minds and spirits of generations of young women,” said Dale Fryxell, Ph.D., dean of Chaminade’s School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, at the award presentation. PHOTO 3
Sr. Katherine Francis-Miller, SSCC ’63, was recently celebrated for her transformative leadership and heartfelt commitment to service.
Dr. Gregory Zirzow (Biology) returned to Northern Virginia after attending Chaminade, entered US Naval Air as a cadet in 1970, and following an honorable discharge, resumed his role as head of the small animal toxicology unit at Woodard Research Corp. He later earned a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine and joined the National Institutes of Health in 1973, retiring in 2008 with over 35 years of service. These days, he is enjoying good health and time with his wife Laura, three grown daughters, and seven grand-
children. He fondly remembers his 1986 visit to Chaminade, the celebration of his marriage, and his honeymoon on O‘ahu and Kaua‘i. He adds, “Life is good—I miss Hawai‘i very much.”
PHOTO 4 Dr. Gregory Zirzow is happily retired after a rich career of public service.
Roy Randall “Randy” Haskin ’69 (Chemistry) is the founder, president and CEO of NanoBiologics Research Corporation. An organic chemist by training, he is the lead scientist behind the company’s proprietary processes and the development of its manufacturing facility. Haskin also co-founded CannaSafe Analytics, a cannabis testing laboratory. With a strong background in product formulation and commercialization, he continues to lead cutting-edge research at the intersection of science and wellness.
1970s
Brent Kennedy ’70 (Management Science) proudly served 27 years in the US Army, retiring as a sergeant major, before continuing his career with Electronic Data Systems for 10 years and then another decade with the Dallas Police Department, working in the Northeast Division. He and his wife, Chrissy, also ran a 30-acre horse ranch, where he taught horsemanship. Now retired, the couple lives in Anna, Texas on a peaceful three-acre property with two donkeys and their dog, Mai Tai. Kennedy says he makes it back to O‘ahu every few years and still has family in Kāne‘ohe.
Drs. Michael ’79 (Computer Science) and Sally Coovert recently made their annual visit to O‘ahu, and members of the
Chaminade Advancement team enjoyed lunch with them. Director of Alumni Relations Jodi-Ann Yoshida, MBA ’23, shared, “We caught up on life and reflected on how the years have treated us. Grateful as ever for their continued support and enduring friendship— connections like these are what make our alumni ‘ohana so special.” PHOTO 5 Drs. Michael ’79 and Sally Coovert pose with Jodi-Anne Yoshida, MBA ‘23, and Kendra Sia.
1980s
After raising two children and enjoying a full career as a licensed practical nurse, Sandra Penn ‘81 (General Studies) returned to school and in December 2024, at 70 years old, graduated summa cum laude from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. She extends her heartfelt thanks to her husband, Wayne, for his unwavering support. PHOTO 6 Sandra Penn ‘81 donned a graduation gown for a second time.
Proof that it takes a village to support the community and raise our keiki: Joan Nacino ’85 (Business Administration) recently reconnected with Alana Mariota ’88, MBA ’92, to attend the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii Celebration held at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. PHOTO 7 Joan Nacino ’85 and Alana Mariota ’88, MBA ’92, are pictured at a recent event.
1990s
Christine Won Pat Baleto ’91 (Behavioral Science) recently visited campus to reminisce
about her time at Chaminade. During her visit, she connected with fellow Guam leader Annette Santos, DBA, dean of Chaminade’s School of Business and Communication. Baleto is making a major impact in the Guam community as president and CEO of mobile, television, internet and telephone service provider Docomo Pacific Guam. Their shared commitment to leadership and service reflects the strong Chaminade spirit thriving across the Pacific. PHOTO 8 Christine Won Pat Baleto ’91 recently returned to campus.
Dr. Manida Xongmixay-Lau, MBA ’96, was recently named Top Doctor of the Year in Business Administration for 2025 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), recognizing her outstanding leadership and industry contributions. With over 30 years of experience, she currently serves as vice president of business solutions and member experience at Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment, Inc. Her career began in hospitality with Grand Hyatt Macau and evolved to include key leadership roles in HR, IT, and casino marketing at major resorts in Macau and Manila. Xongmixay-Lau has been instrumental in launching strategic initiatives focused on talent development, operational efficiency, and organizational success. Among her many accolades, she was recently named one of the Top 35 Global Women Thought Leaders and will be honored at IAOTP’s annual gala at the Bellagio in Las Vegas in December. PHOTO 9
Dr. Manida Xongmixay-Lau, MBA ’96, has been recognized for her contributions to the hospitality industry.
2000s
Matt Morgan ’00 (Communication) and his wife, Larissa ’00 (Communication), recently returned to campus and shared fond memories of their time at Chaminade. Twenty-five years ago, the Morgans were proud Silversword athletes—Matt on the basketball court and Larissa on the softball field. After college, Matt Morgan went on to become a professional wrestling champion with WWE and TNA, later starring as “Beast” on American Gladiators. He also served three terms as mayor of Longwood, Florida, and continues to serve his community as a city commissioner. The couple reside in Florida with their son, Jackson, and remain active leaders in their community. PHOTO 10 Matt Morgan ’00 and his wife, Larissa ’00, pose for a photo during a visit to campus.
Shana (Tudela) Carvalho ’01 (Business Administration) recently returned to campus to visit her friend and classmate Ann Lujan Kishi ’01, MBA ’06, MEd ’12, associate director of the Hogan Entrepreneurial Program. Carvalho also had the opportunity to meet with Annette Santos, DBA, dean of the School of Business and Communication. Reflecting on her time at Chaminade, Carvalho says she still values the University’s strong values and sense of community. PHOTO 11 Shana (Tudela) Carvalho ’01, right, poses with classmate Ann Lujan Kishi ’01, MBA ’06, MEd ’12, associate director of the Hogan Entrepreneurial Program.
Eric Beem ’02 (Business), MBA ’04, began a new role earlier this year as a contract management specialist at the New York State Office of Victim Services, overseeing budgets, handling procurement, and supporting a range of adminis-
trative functions. His work plays an important role in ensuring the office runs efficiently and continues to provide critical services to those in need.
Congratulations to Silversword nursing leader Marife AczonArmstrong, MSCP ’03, Ph.D., a professor at Chaminade, who has been selected for induction into the American Academy of Nursing’s 2025 Class of Fellows, a prestigious national honor. PHOTO 12 Marife AczonArmstrong, MSCP ’03, Ph.D., recently received a prestigious national honor for her contributions to the nursing field.
Dr. Jennifer (Drake) Dempsey, MEd ’04, graduated in May with a doctoral degree in the Science of Reading. She serves as the director of Teaching and Learning at the Montessori School of Maui and is excited to apply her expertise to improving literacy practices across Hawai‘i.
PHOTO 13 Dr. Jennifer (Drake) Dempsey, MEd ’04, is a Montessori leader on Maui.
Jennifer (Shiraki) Shigenaga, MBA ‘04 (Business), was recently hired as an independent agent at Atlas Insurance Agency. In her new role, she will focus on property and casualty insurance, specializing in midsize to large commercial accounts with an emphasis on construction risks.
Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05 (Criminal Justice), MS ’07, Chaminade’s women’s volleyball head coach, joined the Silversword volleyball team to welcome a group of K–6 students from Hanahau‘oli School to campus recently. The team had a blast leading the keiki through a fun and energetic volleyball skills workshop, sharing their passion for the sport and creating memorable moments of mentorship and play. PHOTO 14 Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07, women’s volleyball head coach at
Chaminade, welcomed students to campus for a fun volleyball skills workshop.
Kevin McDonald ’06 (Marketing) visited campus with his ‘ohana. McDonald, along with his wife, Kristin, and their children Koji (13), Kai (11), and Kahala (9), traveled from Orange County to O‘ahu and made time for a special family tour of Chaminade. It was a meaningful homecoming and a chance to share McDonald’s college experience with the next generation. PHOTO 15 Kevin McDonald ‘06 visited campus with his family.
LaiYin Ng ’07 (Early Childhood Education), MEd ’09, Nicolle (Navares) Baron ’07 (Psychology), MSCP ’10, and Mandy Thronas-Brown, MEd ’13, were among the dedicated educators who participated in Chaminade’s recent “I Go To College” event. As part of this hands-on experience, students participated in specially designed college-level courses taught by university professors, offering a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that higher education offers.
PHOTO 16 LaiYin Ng ’07, MEd ’09, PHOTO 17 Nicolle (Navares) Baron ’07, MSCP ’10, and PHOTO 18 Mandy Thronas-Brown, MEd ’13, recently attended “I Go to College” at Chaminade with Jodi-Anne Yoshida, MBA ‘23.
Mark Rodrigues ’07 (English), member of the 1982 Chaminade basketball team that took down No. 1 Virginia, showed his Silversword pride by supporting Chaminade baseball as they took on Westmont in Santa Barbara. Go Swords! PHOTO 19 Mark Rodrigues ’07 cheers on the Silverswords in California with Head Baseball Coach Chad Konishi.
Lt. Col. Marie Hough ’09 (Historical & Political Studies) is now commander of the Radford Army Ammunition Plant. In the role, her goal is to build strong relationships, join community
activities, and make sure the RFAAP is a positive force.
Neal Faradineh ’09 (Criminal Justice Administration) has joined the US Indo-Pacific Command team as a senior account executive, bringing over 14 years of experience in defense business development and a strong background in both military and commercial Indo-Pacific operations to the role. With deep strategic insight and well established customer relationships, he hopes to enhance support for coalition operations and advance secure information sharing across the region. PHOTO 20 Neal Faradineh ’09 recently joined the US IndoPacific Command.
2010s
Matt Sanders ’10 (Communications) stars alongside Haylie Duff in the film Project Baby, now available for streaming in the US. Sanders, who has been acting professionally since 2017, said this was his first feature film outside of the independent scene. PHOTO 21 Matt Sanders ’10 is starring in his first feature film.
Kristy Inamasu ’12 (Psychology), MAT ’14, a kindergarten teacher at Kalihi Uka Elementary, was recently honored with the prestigious Milken Educator Award, dubbed the “Oscars of teaching.” The recognition comes with an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize and mentorship opportunities. “Kristy is an exceptional educator who cultivates critical thinking, communication, self-awareness, and empathy in her kindergarteners, giving them the foundational skills needed for future success,” said Hawai‘i Schools Superintendent Keith Hayashi following the award ceremony. PHOTO 22 Kristy Inamasu ’12, MAT ’14, was recently honored as among the nation’s best educators.
Arial Mendoza ’12 (Communications, History), MS ’16, is now associate registrar for curriculum management at Chaminade University. A proud alumna, Mendoza brings extensive experience in course equivalencies and academic advising to her new position. Reflecting on the opportunity, she shared, “I’m excited to step into this new role and eager to bring my expertise and perspective as a proud alum to the work of overseeing the University’s curriculum. It feels like a great next step and a chance to give back to a place that’s meant a lot to me over the last 17 years.” PHOTO 23 Arial Mendoza ’12, MS ’16, is proud to be serving her alma mater.
Dominque Bocanegra ’13 (Criminology & Criminal Justice, Business Administration) started in a new role as community manager with the Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest team.
PHOTO 24 Dominque Bocanegra ’13 is supporting the WNBA’s newest team.
Glenn Yri ’13 (Psychology), MSCP ’16, and Miriam Munoz ’13 (Criminology & Criminal Justice) first met at Chaminade during their 2009 orientation and began dating in 2012. Munoz went on to pursue her master’s in physician assistant studies and now works as a Family Medicine PA. Yri is the director of Student Support Services at Texas Tech University’s Health Sciences Center and is pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education at Texas Tech University. Together, they are raising their five-year-old son in Texas along with two beloved dogs. PHOTOS 25 & 26 Glenn Yri ’13, MSCP ’16, and Miriam Munoz ’13 met and started dating at Chaminade.
After graduating from Chaminade, Isel Marievic Jandoc ’15 (Elementary Education and English) began her teaching
career at Nānāikapono Elementary School in Nānākuli, Hawai‘i. She subsequently obtained a master’s degree in curriculum studies and recently marked her tenth year of teaching at the same institution. In July, she and her husband celebrated five years of marriage and have a four-year-old daughter.
PHOTO 27 Isel Marievic Jandoc ‘15 recently celebrated 10 years in the classroom.
Kathlyn “Kek” Powell ’15 (Education) and Christina (Saturnio) Botello ’15 (Elementary Education) took a stroll down memory lane on the slopes of Kalaepohaku, reflecting on 14 years of friendship, laughter, and memories. They are grateful for the enduring bonds that began at Chaminade. PHOTOS 28 & 29
Kathlyn “Kek” Powell ’15 and Christina (Saturnio) Botello ’15 are reflecting on 14 years of friendship and memories.
Austin Pope ’18 (Psychology) celebrated his wedding to Melissa Sanchez on May 10, 2025! PHOTO 30 Austin Pope ’18 recently celebrated his wedding.
Kristina (Viloria) Ramelb, MEd ’18, recently celebrated the completion of her first year as middle school principal at DreamHouse ‘Ewa Beach Public Charter School. PHOTO 31 Recently married, Kristina (Viloria) Ramelb, MEd ’18, is a public charter school leader.
Karinna (Himan) Rayphand ’18 (Criminology & Criminal Justice) and Jazmin Rayphand ’20 (Business Administration) were married on February 14, 2025, in Seattle. The couple, who both served as residential advisors at Chaminade, share a deep connection to the University. PHOTO 32 Karinna (Himan) Rayphand ’18 and Jazmin Rayphand ’20 say Chaminade holds a special place in their hearts.
Andrew “Pono” Riddle ’18 (Psychology), MEd ’21, was promoted to director for inclusive excellence and academic success at Chaminade University. He views this role as a meaningful way to give back to the community that deeply shaped him during his undergraduate and graduate studies. Riddle brings a passion for guiding students on their huakaʻi (journey) of self-discovery, fostering a genuine sense of belonging. He is especially dedicated to helping students who face significant barriers to success in higher education.
PHOTO 33 Andrew “Pono” Riddle ’18, MEd ’21, now serves as director for inclusive excellence and academic success at Chaminade.
Atlas Insurance recently hired Kryn (Masutani) Tsutahara, MAT ’18, as an account manager III in the Commercial Lines Operations unit. In this role, Tsutahara assists account managers with placing, maintaining, expanding, and servicing accounts.
PHOTO 34 Kryn (Masutani) Tsutahara, MAT ’18, serves as an account manager III at Atlas Insurance.
2020s
Sarah Hunt ’20 (Psychology) has completed her Master of Education at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and is beginning a new role as a vocational rehabilitation counselor with the Hawai‘i State Department of Human Services.
Jonathan Enos ’22 (Management) was recently named to the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation’s board of directors. He will collaborate with fellow board members to advance the organization’s mission and expand its community impact.
Dawson Christina ’23 (Business Administration) began a new role as a development specialist at Emplifi. In this position, Dawson supports the company’s mission to enhance digital engagement for customers worldwide.
Yazmine Esquivel, MBA ’24, was honored as Pacific Air Forces Civilian of the Year 2024. She expressed her gratitude to her team for nominating her and recognizing her work, saying, “Thank you to everyone who made the ceremony possible— and to my amazing team.”
PHOTO 35 Yazmine Esquivel, MBA ’24, was recently honored for her work with Pacific Air Forces.
Jon Watase, MBA ’24, returned to campus as a vendor at the Spring Campus Open Marketplace, where he shared his entrepreneurial journey and expressed gratitude to the mentors who supported him along the way. Watase is the founder of Oahu Grown Mamaki. PHOTO 36 Jon Watase, MBA ’24, wears many hats in the community, including as a tea farmer, entrepreneur, and environmental educator.
Stay Connected
Learn more at chaminade.edu/alumni alumni@chaminade.edu
cuhalumni chaminade-university-alumni
Chaminade depends on the steadfast generosity of our most loyal donors. We are proud to recognize the many ways through which alumni, parents, friends and community leaders make financial contributions each year to the University. This, in turn, helps provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.
Mahalo to our 76 Chaminade Fund Society members from the 2024–2025 fiscal year!
Join the Chaminade Fund Society today to provide opportunities for every student on campus and confirm your support for our students and the value-based education we continue to provide.
THE CHAMINADE FUND SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP LEVELS
Visionaries
($25,000+ annually)
• Hosted priority seating for two at the annual Chaminade Fund Society dinner
• Invitations and reserved seating for exclusive Provost, Marianist Lectures and Faculty-Led Series
• Visionary Premium Gift
• Complimentary admission to all Chaminade sporting events (excludes Maui Invitational Tournament)
• Honor Roll recognition
Founders
($10,000 – $24,999 annually)
• Hosted seating for two at the annual Chaminade Fund Society dinner
• Invitations for exclusive Provost, Marianist Lectures and Faculty-Led Series
• Founders Premium Gift
• Complimentary admission to all Chaminade sporting events (excludes Maui Invitational Tournament)
• Honor Roll recognition
Learn
Sustainers
($5,000 – $9,999 annually)
• Hosted seating for two at the annual Chaminade Fund Society dinner
• Invitations for exclusive Provost, Marianist Lectures and Faculty-Led Series
• Sustainers Premium Gift
• Honor Roll recognition Scholars
($2,500 – $4,999 annually)
• Two tickets for the annual Chaminade Fund Society dinner
• Scholars Premium Gift
• Honor Roll recognition
Recent Alumni Members
($500 over five years)
Pledge of $8.50/month for five years or $100/year for five years
• For alumni who have graduated between 2015–2025
• Two tickets to the annual Chaminade Fund Society Dinner
• Honor Roll recognition
MAHALO NUI LOA
People often ask me: “What makes Chaminade so special?” Is it the tight-knit campus environment and strong student support? Is it that our professors serve as mentors, guiding Silverswords every step of the way on their journeys? Is it the University’s mission of service and giving back?
Of course, all of those elements of our University are critical to what makes Chaminade Chaminade. But what makes us special is more foundational—it’s our people. Chaminade is special because of our family of faculty and staff, because of our students, because of our alumni, and because of our supporters in the community—the donors who help put opportunities in reach.
As Chaminade University celebrates its 70th anniversary, it is my pleasure to send my deepest thanks to each and every one of our donors. They are not only making dreams possible—they are also supporting a truly transformative educational experience at Chaminade, where more than half of undergraduates are firstgeneration college students and 98 percent of whom receive financial aid.
In this issue, you’ll find one of our biggest Honor Roll of Donors yet: a great testament to the strength of our wonderful Chaminade family, and the generosity and aloha that make it so special. Together we are helping our students develop as learners, changemakers and leaders so that they can go on to positively impact their families, their communities and the world.
Mahalo!
Jill Higashi VICE PRESIDENT, ADVANCEMENT
LEARN MORE about The Chaminade Fund Society’s giving levels and join today!
ABOVE: Celebrating at the 2025 Silversword Gala are: (standing, left to right) Susan Fryxell; Dale Fryxell, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences; Eric Bovaird, men’s basketball head coach; John Barayuga ‘25; and Kendra Sia, director of Annual Fund. At the table (sitting, left to right) are: Anthony Durocher ‘26; Mia Wong ‘27; Jill Higashi, vice president of Advancement; Dr. Estelle Kelley, Regent; and Jean Rolles, MSJBS ‘93, Regent.
HONOR ROLL OF DONORS
Chaminade University is honored to recognize and thank all the individuals and organizations whose generous contributions give strength to our mission of enriching and educating our students for life, service and success.
We value each gift received and have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this July 2024–June 2025 Honor Roll of Donors. If your name was omitted, misspelled or incorrectly listed, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us at (808) 739-4761 or gifts@chaminade.edu so that we may correct our records. Mahalo!
Visionaries
($25,000+ annually)
Anonymous Donor
Drs. Lynn Babington and Randall Carpenter
Founders
($10,000 – $24,999 annually)
Wilfred Cambra, Jr. ‘92 and Kimberly Cambra ‘94
Dr. Keiki-Pua Dancil
Eric, MBA ’94, and Lori ’01 Fujimoto
Rodney Harano, MBA ’84
Dr. Estelle Kelley
Michael Kerr
Dr. Edmundo ’72 and Cheryle Mandac
Matthew, MEd ‘02, and Eve Morgan
Jean Rolles, MSJBS ’93
Albert and Maureen Wong
Sustainers
($5,000 – $9,999 annually)
Timothy and Catherine Babington
Gae Bergquist-Trommald
Glen Birdsall ’74
Aulani ’93, MBA ’96, and Kalei Kaanoi
Dr. Blaine Lesnik
Dr. Kenneth and Lisa Moritsugu
Lauren and Scott Nahme
LTG Joseph, MBA ‘81, and Ann Peterson
Dwayne & Marti Steele Fund
Richard and Catherine Tanaka
David and Barbara Underriner
Francis ’69 and Kathleen ’69 Yamamura
BOARD OF REGENTS
Violeta Arnobit and Terry Arnobit, Jr.
Edward Barnabas
Gae Bergquist-Trommald
Carolyn Berry Wilson and David Wilson
Dr. Keiki-Pua Dancil
Ismael Eustaquio, Jr. ’88 and Anne Eustaquio ’89, MBA ’92
John Field, Jr., MBA ’84, and Susie Field
Dr. Lori Forman
Eric, MBA ’94, and Lori ’01 Fujimoto
Rodney Harano, MBA ’84
Meli James
Dr. Estelle Kelley
Bro. Joseph Markel, SM
Lauren and Scott Nahme
Jean Rolles, MSJBS ’93
Scholars
($2,500 – $4,999 annually)
Anonymous Donor
Drs. Lance and Virginie Askildson
Carolyn Berry Wilson and David Wilson
Sai Cheong ’76, MBA ’78, and Mei Tak Chui
Dr. Hans Chun
Dr. David and Valerie Coleman
Dr. Jennifer, EdD ‘24, and Nick Creech
Dr. Michaela Culkin ’98
Roseyn Devlin
John Field, Jr., MBA ’84, and Susie Field
Dr. Lori Forman
William and Judith Garrett
Dr. Christine Gayagas and Lt. Col.
Douglas Tostrud
Dr. AnneMarie and Pete Gumataotao
Robert and Lori Harrison
Nancy and Dr. Garrett Hayashi
Jill Higashi
Craig Hirasaki
William Jacobi ‘73
Dr. Allison and Craig Jerome
Anton and Julie Krucky
Bryan Luke
RADM Joseph McClelland, Jr.
David, MBA ’97, and Kathleen Morimoto
Geoffrey and Amy Somary
Donald Takaki ’68
Alison Tanaka, MBA ’15, and Sean Davey
LTG Francis and Jeannine Wiercinski
Dr. Rosemary Wong ’67 and Mr. William Morgan
Alison Tanaka, MBA ’15, and Sean Davey
David and Barbara Underriner
Vernon Wong, MBA ’92, and Carla Fukumoto
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Arnold Baptiste, Jr. and Josefina Baptiste
Rick Blangiardi and Karen Chang
John and Mary Lou Brogan
Sai Cheong ’76, MBA ’78, and Mei Tak Chui
Robert and Alison Eisiminger
William and Judith Garrett
Dr. Christine Gayagas and Lt. Col. Douglas Tostrud
Dr. AnneMarie and Pete Gumataotao
Robert and Lori Harrison
Nancy and Dr. Garrett Hayashi
Gary and Nadine Hogan
Tracy Lynn Wong, MBA ’14
Greg and Shannon Young
Vernon Wong, MBA ’92, and Carla Fukumoto
Recent Alumni Members
($500 over five years)
Andrew Ancheta II ‘21
Tina ’05, MPT ’14, and James Andrade
Jazmine Burdine ’12, MBA ‘18
Stacey Ishii, MBA ‘20
Be-Jay ’86, MBA ’16, and Gregg Kodama
Alyssa Mori ‘19
Ambassadors Lauren, MAT ’18, and James Moriarty
Kendrick Morikawa, MBA ‘22
Hieu Nguyen, MEd ’09, MBA ’14
Nhung Nguyen, MPT ‘19
Darian ‘15, MBA ‘18, and Elijah Padilla
Andre “Pono” Riddle ‘18, MEd ‘21
Traci Toguchi ‘24
Lisa Trumbull, MBA ‘24
Julieann Tupuola ’16, MEd ’19
Megan Viloria, MBA ‘24
Christopher Waiamau ’13, MS ’15, MBA ’17
Michael, MPT ’14, and Cecelia, MPT ’14 Weaver
Jennifer Westman ‘19
Deneen Wong MS ’13, MBA ’16
Jodi-Anne Yoshida, MBA ‘23
Matthew ’89 and Kelli Howard
Michael Kerr
Anton and Julie Krucky
Dr. Sondra Leiggi Brandon and John Brandon
Dr. Blaine Lesnik
Bryan Luke
Dawn MacNaughton, MBA ’93
RADM Joseph McClelland, Jr.
Matthew, MEd ‘02, and Eve Morgan
Dr. Kenneth and Lisa Moritsugu
Donald and Mona Rodrigues
Richard and Catherine Tanaka
Vaughn Vasconcellos and Suzie Martin
Jeff Wagoner
LTG Francis and Jeannine Wiercinski
Albert and Maureen Wong
Greg and Shannon Young
CURRENT AND FORMER
FACULTY AND STAFF
Anonymous Donors (19)
Dr. Marife Aczon-Armstrong, MS ’03
Dr. Donna Agan
Lauren Alejo
Rose-Anne Allen
Andrew Ancheta II ‘21
Kailyn Anderson
Daniel Anderson
Liset Andrade
Paul Arakaki
Tai Arakawa
Mauricio Aritos
Drs. Lance and Virginie Askildson
Lori Ann Aukai-Paia
Drs. Lynn Babington and Randall Carpenter
Sherry Ann Bagoyo ’06, MBA ’08
Myra and Robert Baliares
Alexis Barroga
Dr. Leahna Barton
Kimberlee Baxter
Leiko Bedoya
Dr. Donna Bernhard
Dr. Clifford Bieberly
Mefleen Billy
Cody Black
Dr. Sandra Bourgette-Henry
Eric and Dr. Leigh Bovaird
Heidi and Travis Bow
Bro. Edward Brink, SM
Hubert Brown
Dr. Maria and Alexander Brownlow
Troy Bulusan
Dr. Thomas Buning
Dr. Kathleen Burger
Jadine Cabana, MAT ‘22
Jowenalyn Cadiz, BS ‘19
Tyra Caliva
Dr. Caryn Callahan and Bennett
Liang
Dr. Amber Camp
Ke’alohi Canady ‘20
Dr. David and Charlotte Carter
Dr. Lilia and Alfred Castle
Dr. Heather Chapman, MS ‘11
Huo Chen
Cathy and Dr. Armand Chong
Dr. Hans Chun
Dr. Kathryn Chun
Derek Chung
Dr. David and Valerie Coleman
Denise Cooper
Hilary Corcoran
Dr. Makana Craig
Dr. Jennifer, EdD ‘24, and Nick Creech
Elsie Crowninshield
Nancy da Silva
Bree Dalton
Dr. Janet Davidson
Joseph Del Rosario
Roseyn Devlin
Dr. Michael and Sheryl, MEd ’11, Dohm
Aubrey Dunaway
Drs. Cheryl Edelson and Stanley Orr
Dr. Allison Francis
Dr. Dale and Susan Fryxell
Junko Funahashi
Thomas Galli
Katherine Gardner-Bougard
Dr. Gail Grabowsky
Dr. Kelly Green
Del Green
Dr. Genevieve Griffiths
Carlos Gutierrez Ayala, MS ’16, and Ana Acuna, MBA ’16
Lynn Haff
Dr. Rhoberta Haley
Dr. Abby Halston, MS ‘05
Bradford Harrison
Dr. Blendine Hawkins
Alexander Hernandez ‘24
Jill Higashi
Matthew Higgins
Tammy and Clarence Hohu
Kate Horobik
Rui Jiang and Xue Huang
Abigail Hurgo
Kari Inda
Stacey Ishii, MBA ‘20
Hope Ishizaka
Dr. Darren, MS ’98, and Reyna Iwamoto
Ronald Iwamoto
Dr. Allison and Craig Jerome
Deanine Johnson
Adam Joseph
Aulani ’93, MBA ’96, and Kalei
Kaanoi
Kahala Kabalis Hoke ’05, MS ’07, and David Hoke
Dr. Frederique Kandel
Dr. John Karbens
Kawehionalani Kauhola
Dr. Joel and Nancy Kawakami
Kapilialoha Kidder
Richard Kido
Ann ’01, MBA ’06, MEd ’12, and Richard Kishi
Chad Konishi
Troye Krassa-Chen
Dr. James Kraus and Kai
White ’02
Seiko Kulliano
Marcia Kurahara
Anela LaBore
Dr. Wendy Lam, MBA ’89
Stephanie LaMonaca
Christine Largosa
Thais Lascu
Linda Lau
Lorraine Lee
Chul Lee
Patricia Lee-Robinson and Dr. James Robinson, Jr.
Sharon and Henry LePage
Kathrine Lewis Kearns
Choong, MBA ’09, and Chi-Ching Lim
Sophia Gay Loo
Jacqui Low
Scott Lund
Mario Macagba, MBA ‘22
Dr. Edna Magpantay-Monroe and Michael Monroe
Dr. Linda Malone
Dr. Bryan Man
Kristopher Martin, MBA ‘17
Michelle Masuda
Kintirina Matai
Makepa Matin
Terry McCandliss-Dowdell
Dr. Mindy McDermott
Dr. Christopher McNally and Pauline Ping Bai
Dr. Glenn Medeiros
Arial ’12, MS ’16, and Marvin ’11, MBA ’17, Mendoza
Cydney Meneses
Alia Mercado ‘23
Celine Mesiona-Perez ‘22
Harry ’67 and Ginger ’08 Miller
Linda Mistysyn
Arissa Molina
Dana Monday
Michelle Montgomery
Willis Moore
Dr. Arthur and Waltraut Mori
Alyssa Mori ‘19
Dr. Jennifer Nafarrete
Hieu Nguyen, MEd ’09, MBA ’14
Maxine and Dean Nihei
Claire Nishiguchi
Crista Nishimoto, MBA ‘22
Yu Noguchi
Dr. Amber Noguchi
Kylie Norris
Blaine Ohama
Nancy Oide
Edward O’Mahony
Riley Paakaula
Bro. Allen Pacquing, SM
Guy Paio
Dr. Elizabeth, MEd ’04, and Peter Park
Christopher Patrinos ‘13 and Pamela Silva-Patrinos
Sanovia Peavy
Andrew and Kimi Perez
Rimako Peter
Tomasa Pillos
Dr. Emily Pujadas Liwag
Dr. Dustyn Ragasa ‘07
Dr. Lorin Ramocki
The late Mark Riddle
Andre “Pono” Riddle ‘18, MEd ‘21
John Rinen
Dr. Julieta Rosado
Dr. Katrina Roseler
Lourdes Ruben
Dr. Guadalupe Ruiz-Jones ‘09 and Marcello Gamba
Lea Sado-Elvenia
Ariz Sanchez
Jackeline and George ‘99, MSCP ‘00, MEd ‘20, Sanqui
Evelyn and Oscar Sanqui
Katherine Santiago
Dr. Annette Santos
Brian Sasaki
Drs. Sean and LaVache ’94, MEd ’01, Scanlan
Dr. Scott Schroeder and Dr. Koreen Nakahodo
Aliman and Mirnah Sears
Benton Sen
Richard Sevilla
Lori Shimoda
Kendra Sia
Dr. Pamela Smith
Fr. Martin Solma, SM
Bro. Thomas Spring, SM
Dr. Peter Steiger, MBA ’13
Dr. Jeffrey Stern
Kristina Stone, MA ’00
Dr. Junghwa Suh
Jules Sukhabut
Maritel Suniga
Colby Takeda
Amy Takiguchi ’02, MBA ’06
Karen Tanigawa
Dr. Joy Tanji
Joshua Thinsew ’12
Jimmy Tran
Dr. Henry Trapido-Rosenthal
Dr. Tracy Trevorrow and Lois Yamauchi
Lisa Trumbull, MBA ‘24
Julieann Tupuola ’16, MEd ’19
Dr. Helen Turner
Mariane Uehara
Mary Valdez
Dr. George Vozikis
Dr. Eva Washburn-Repollo and Curtis Washburn
Michael, MPT ’14, and Cecelia, MPT ’14, Weaver
Ming-Hua Wei
Daniel Weiss
Najja Wells
Shantel Wells
Dr. Helen Whippy
Fr. Christopher Wittmann, SM
Sr. Malia Wong, OP ‘85
Deneen Wong MS ’13, MBA ’16
Dr. Claire Wright
Dr. Justin Wyble
Dr. Scott Wylie
Kent and Vanessa Yamaguchi
Tina Yamamoto
Jodi-Anne Yoshida, MBA ‘23
Renee Yuen
Shan Yuen
ALUMNI
Anonymous Donors (7)
David Abe, MBA ’13
Ariel Agsalud ’14
Ruth Mae Aguda-Valenzuela, MS ‘09
Thomas Aiu ’79
Linda ’76 and Lincoln Akana
Angel Alvarado, MS ‘03
Jennifer Alvarez ’02
Joselito Alvior ‘87
Tina ’05, MPT ’14, and James Andrade
David and Lenny Andrew
Anita Andrews de Sanchez ‘78
Summer Aona, MAT ‘17
Beate Arendale ’94 and Kevin Welz
2nd Lt. Linus Augustus ’90
Celina Babauta ’17, ’18
Angela Barker ‘17
Gary Batungbacal
Joey Becera ’04
Glen Birdsall ’74
Dr. Tobias ’00 and Natalie Boehm
James Bostick, MBA ’86
Dr. Vincent Branick ’63
Minnie Brazell ’79
Lesley Brey, MBA ’88, and Dr. Randall Kam
William ‘66 and Anne Brye
Mary Ann Buckheit ’04, ’07
Jazmine Burdine ’12, MBA ‘18
Patrick ’87 and Katrina Butler
David Butterworth, Jr. ’80
Thomas ’68 and Patricia Cabrinha
Anthony ‘69 and Charito Caluya
Wilfred Cambra, Jr. ‘92 and Kimberly Cambra ‘94
Jordan Caputy, MBA ‘21
Martha Carrasquillo ‘75
Nicole Carrido, MBA ‘09
Christian Carson ’13
Francisco Castillo, MSCP ‘21
Conors ’98 and Aya Castro
James ’77 and Cynthia Charnell
Serene Chew ’81, ’82
Richard Ching ‘69
Bertha Ching
Glenn Chong ’75
Barbara Cobb ’84 and William Cobb, Jr.
Dr. Matthew Cockett ‘90
M. Loretta Cofield ’75
Patrick Collins, MBA ‘14
William ’73 and Phyllis Cook
Regina Coopat, MBA ’84
Drs. Michael ’79 and Sally Coovert
Vinarie Aprille Cortez ‘20
James ’90 and Susan Coughlin
John Crank ’96 and Un Mei Pan
Wayne and Pamela ’80 Crenwelge
Jeffrey Cribbs, Sr. ’70 and Peggy Cribbs
Dr. Michaela Culkin ’98
John Culmer ’73
Dr. Gabrielle Daniels ‘88
Eddie Davis, MS ’94
Thomas DeLaine, Jr. ’94, MBA ’94
Cipriano ’83 and Tessa Deluna
The Rev. Rodney DeMartini ’69
Terryleen Dement ’72 and Timothy Ngau
Dr. Ronald ’67 and Michele
Dempsey
Lovey-Ann ’76 and William
DeRego
Estela Derr ‘88
Jolica Marie Domdom ‘16
Lincoln ’69, MEd ’75, and Mary Jane Drake
Russell ’75 and Christine Dung
Jan ’84 and Lee Dunlap
Marie Early ’80
John ’70 and Mary Epperson
Scott ’87 and Diane Erickson
Richard ’84, MBA ’85, and Nancy Erickson
Aileen Esmeralda, MS ’10
Dr. Amado Gabriel, MS ’86, and Josephine Esteban
Cleo Eubanks, MSCP ‘05, MEd ‘14
Jhernie Evangelista, MEd ‘22
Staff Sgt. Phillip Everson, IV ’93
Jerry ’73 and Michal Mary Farrar
Joyce Favorite ’86
William ’68 and Karen Ferguson
Yolynne Fernando ’03
Daniel ’05 and Allison Forburger
Vice Adm. Jeffrey, MBA ’85, and Katherine Fowler
Deacon Lawrence ’65 and Stephanie Franco
Romain Fravien ‘00, ’01
Kyle Fujisue, MS ‘17
Kinsley ’67 and Sue Fujitani
Stephen ’84 and Elizabeth Gilbride
Paul Goeller, Jr. ‘73
Karl Gonda ’80
Steve Goo, MBA ‘96
CAPT Michael ’77, ’80 and Mary Gordon
Lt. Col. Steven, MBA ’90, and Alison Gottlieb
Richard Griffin, MBA ’06
Mark ’82 and Deirdre Guillory
Julie Halpern, MS ’95
Jimaela Anne Ham
Robert Hamamoto, MBA ’88, and Dayle Sasaki-Hamamoto
David ’63 and Lorraine ’64 Hamilton
Rick ’87 and Kehau Hartsell
Lita Hayes ’91
PO Renier ‘96 and Donna Hernandez
Ryan Hirata ‘08, MBA ‘18
Wendell Hosea ‘67
Jin-San Hu ’95, MBA ’96
Janinne ’91 and Brian Hulsey
Sarah Hussey, MAT ‘23
Karlene Inaura ’73
Wayne ’68 and Joy Ishihara
Venita Jackson ’13
William Jacobi ‘73
Bro. Thomas Jalbert, SM ’71
Romella Javillo, MBA ’07
Joon Joo ‘83, MBA ‘84
Pamela Juneman ’03, ’05, MEd ’08
Kaui Kaaihue ’17
Bruce Kam, MS ’05
Paul ’86, MBA ’93, and Gail Kaneshiro
Clyde ’66 and Margaret Kang
Edward ’60 and Grace ’61 Kashiwamura
Asst. Chief Clayton ’78 and Jay Ann Kau
Daniel ’07 and Heather Kava
Helene ’87 and Richard Kaya
Jodi Kenessey, MS ‘06
Timothy ’69 and Sherry Kennedy
Dr. Holly Kennedy ’76
Brent Craig Kennedy ’70
Stuart ’86 and Ronell Kimura
Elton Kinoshita, MEd ’13
Margaret Kish ’78
Ken Kitamura ’86 and Maria Torres-Kitamura
Be-Jay ’86, MBA ’16, and Gregg Kodama
Maureen ’72 and Ronald Koehler
Dr. Corita Kong ’63
Brad Kusunoki, MS ‘08
Yoshikazu Kutara ‘92
Jadine Lau ’72
David ’71 and Karen Leatherman
Leslie Lee ‘93
Leila Lee, MEd ’05
Gregory Leong ’72
Luther Lewin ‘75
Janice ’07 and Dennis Lock
Joseph Long ’71
Vincent Lopez ’94
LTC Grady ’78 and Suzan Lovett
Robert ’81 and Jill Lowe
Roger Lumpp
Susan ’86 and Dave Maltby
Dr. Edmundo ’72 and Cheryle Mandac
Stephen, MBA ’78, and Donna Marcuccilli
John Margowski ‘81
Patrick Mariano ’19
Patricia Markwardt ‘65
Angela Maroun ’76 and Don Williams
CAPT Frederic ’77 and Christine Martens
Elizabeth Mastrantonio ’76, MBA ’07, and Joseph Mastrantonio, Jr.
Megan Matamoros ’12, MS ’15
Frank Maxwell, Jr., MBA ’88, and Lane Maxwell
Joan McAllister-Williams ’00
Rosemary McCarthy ’83 and Eric Purviance
Caila McEachen ’10
Arthur McNamara, III ‘94 and Shirley McNamara
William ’84 and Lana McNeely
Debra Melton ’78
Angela Mendiola ’11, MS ’14
Paul Messina ‘95
Neil Michling ’10
Jon Miki ’67
Kimberly Miller, MEd ‘11
Carol Minami, MBA ’86
Michael, MBA ’88, and Joan Minnehan
Gay ’62 and Maria Miyakawa
Gervin ’80 and Gayle Miyamoto
Harry Moleta, Sr. ‘77 and Lanette Moleta
Fay Molina-Sagon ’64 and Milton Sagon
Brigit Monahan ‘08
Randolph Moore and Lynne Johnson
Robert ‘64 and Mary Lou ‘64
Morgado
Ambassadors Lauren, MAT ’18, and James Moriarty
Kendrick Morikawa, MBA ‘22
David, MBA ’97, and Kathleen Morimoto
Krissie Morris ’18
Emmanuel Mtika, MBA ‘22
Col. Francis ’75 and Arlene Mungavin
Raymond ’72 and Nora Mysliwski
Joan Nacino ’85 and Kenneth Pollet
Paul Nagamine ’69
Daniel Nakandakari ’87
Chance Nakazato ‘20
Jill Newton, MBA ’00
Doris Ng ’67
Edgar Ng ’74
Nhung Nguyen, MPT ‘19
Abigail Nickell, MBA ’12
Dr. Linda Nishigaya ’69
Mary Ann Nitta ‘86
Joy Ogasawara, MBA ‘23
Susan ‘90 and William Ogle
Christine Ohtani-Chang, MS ’92, and Adrian Chang
Gilbert ’61 and Sandra Olayan
CM Sgt. Thomas ’73 and Ann Oliver
Robert Olmos, Jr. ’80 and Lucy Olmos
Carol Muirhead ’90 and Thom
Muirhead, Jr.
Mae Oshiro ‘96
Ernest Oversen, MS ’95
Darian ‘15, MBA ‘18, and Elijah
Padilla
Lt. Col. Jose ’72, ’80 and Luisa
Padron
Reina Pagtakhan ‘23
Manuel ’72 and Judy Palazzo
Victor Panganiban ‘10
David Parrish ’80
Rena Pascual ’18, MSCP ’22
Dr. Andrew Perry
Maureen Pescaia ’96, MEd ’07
LTG Joseph, MBA ‘81, and Ann Peterson
Thomas ’64 and Jeannette Peterson
Theresa Ann Pinney, MBA ‘89
Wendy Plumage-Maratita ‘91
Richard ’77 and Barbara Poe
Megan Pope ‘21
Shirley Ann Prieto ’92, MBA ’96
Thomas and Florine Rafael
Donald Ranney, Jr. ‘71
Bro. Thomas Redmond, SM ’85
William Reed, Jr., MBA ’89
Lt. Col. Elwin Reichert ‘70
Master Sgt. Kenneth Rhodes ‘10
Laura Rillera ’08
John ’69, ’72 and Robyn ’69
Robinette
Eric Roeben ’75, MBA ’78
Diane Roedersheimer ’81
Rose Leilani Roldan ’11, ’14
Cecelia Romero ‘91
Shenaniah Romias ’19
Felipe ’64 and Dalisay Rosario
Carl ’70, MBA ’78, and Sandra ’72, ’82 Rossetti
Sean Rostron ’03, MBA ’05
Deacon Marlowe Sabater, MPT ‘21
Amanda Sacoto-Dunbar, MS ‘16
Allison, MBA ’86, and Melvin Sasaki
Mandy Sato ‘02
Linda ’68 and Dennis Sayegusa
Merritt Scott ’15
Bonnie ’98 and James Seevers
Julie Segawa, MS ’04
Timari Sejalbo ’15, MEd ’16
CM Sgt. John ’82 and Mary Setser
Jan Seymour ’76
Cynthia ’71 and Michael Shain
Dr. William Shaw ‘71
Clifford Shields ’82
Lloyd ‘72 and Kay Shimoda
Bernadette ’85, MBA ’92, and Mark Shimono
Elyssa Shirai ‘20
Russell Silva ’66
Parris Smith ‘23
Thomas Snee ’69
John Spahn, Jr. ’01 and Jayna Spahn
Andrew Speese, Jr. ’67
Scott Spencer ’86, MBA ’88
Kylie Squier ‘27
SFC Ulysses Stanley ’79
Therese Staszkow ‘69
Dwayne & Marti Steele Fund
John Stegall ‘01
Thomas Symonds III ’02
Peter John Tabilang ‘73
Donald Takaki ’68
Elaine Takata, MBA ’06
Stuart MBA ’84, and Margaret Tanimoto
Barbara Tanji ‘65
Manuel Tavares, Jr. ’72 and Carol Tavares ‘72
Linus Tavares ‘80, MBA ’81
Teri Tavares ’84
Glenda Sue Taylor ‘81
Amy Texeira ‘18
Roy Thomas, Jr. ’74 and Soledad Thomas
LCDR Bruce ’90 and Marsha
Thompson
Eric Tippett ’01
Traci Toguchi ‘24
Cary and Charlotte ’62
Tokunaga
Shana, MEd ’08, and Rodney Tong
Richard Townsend ’65
Georgia Tsukazaki ’88
Daniel Tucker ’79
Virginia Tuckey ’61
Michelle Tuzon, MEd ’06
Arthur ’77 and Julie Ugalde
Terence, MBA ’91, and C. Anna Ulaszewski
Roy Uyehara ’67
Sgt. Maj. Thaddeus ‘77 and Jean Verville
Leslie ‘80 and Doris Victor
Thomas Vidinha, Jr. ‘86
Megan Viloria, MBA ‘24
Christopher Waiamau ’13, MS ’15, MBA ’17
Donna Walker ‘86 and Jerry Walker, Jr.
Robert Ward, Jr. ’83 and Nancy Ward ’86
The Rev. Msgr. Terrence Watanabe ’73
LeNora Wee ’72 and Timothy Wee, Jr.
Erin ’84 and John Wegznek
Cynthia Ann Weiding ’75
Dr. Ted, MBA ’91, and Catherine Wells
Magdalen ’65 and Thomas Wenska
Jennifer Westman ‘19
The Rev. Arthur Bain White, Jr. ’76
Capt. William ’70 and Karnchana Whorton
Nancy Williams ‘88
Douglas Williamson ‘72
Janice ’84 and Peter Wizinowich
Dr. Kwanlin ‘67 and Frances Wong
Dr. Rosemary Wong ’67 and Mr. William Morgan
Tracy Lynn Wong, MBA ’14
Tiana Wong ’14
CDR Ronald and Tesi Wong
Francis ’69 and Kathleen ’69 Yamamura
Daisy ’85 and Theodore Yamane
George Yamasaki, Jr. ’79
Theodore Yap, Jr. ’74
Linda Yeates ’97
Kerry Yen, MS ’93
Ashley Yoshioka ‘18
Harlin Young ’63
Dennis Yuen ‘82
Dave Yuen, MS ’12
Paulette Zarnik ‘75
Dr. Gregory Zirzow
FRIENDS
Anonymous Donors (8)
Benjamin and Nida Agoo
Christopher Asing
Steven Ai and Pam Kimura Ai
Vanissa Akin
Justin Alarcon
Unson Allen
Maryann Amburn
Dr. Francis Aona
Justin Aoyagi
Roland Arjukese
Thomas Asada
Jennifer Ashlock
Timothy and Catherine Babington
Bernard Balanay
Holger Bauer
Yara Bauer
Karen Belle
Wade Benson
Dominga Bermoy
Maryon Bloomer
Connie Bohannon
Velisha Bohrer
Katie Boswell
William and Kathleen Bow
Shannon Brainard
Richene Brainard
Gen. David Bramlett and Dr. Nora Bramlett
Laura Buck
Suzanne Buck
Bryan Buck
Dylan Buck
Thomas Buening
Marieta Bulusan
Thom Burkhardt, Jr. and Joan Burkhardt
Janet Caille
Suzanne Cajski
Ivan Casado
Katie Cayme
Sue Ceglia
Dr. William Chamberlin
Walter Chang
Claire Cheeley
Brandon Childers
Peter Grossman and Catherine Ching
Eleanor Ching
Christopher Benjamin and Melissa Ching Benjamin
Michael and Barbara Chisholm
Dr. Michael and Bina Chun
Andrew and Georgina Chun
David Chung
Clinton Churchill
Ro Cid
Thelma Clark
Irby Clark
Jose Cordova
Jani Cordova
Vivian Cordova
Patrick Corsi
Joanna Cox
Shelly Cravalho-Wagner
Shannon Cross
James Cullinan
Michael and Judy Cummings
Dr. James Curry
Shannon Davenport
Ann Davenport
Cynthia Debus
Jesse and Kathy Dela Cruz
Susan Dellaquila
Lidette Denney
Jamie Devine
Walter Dods, Jr.
Brian Donegan
Sandra Douglass
Dale Douglass
Brian Douglass
Zeny Eakins
Boderek Ebner
Fely Ebner
Rochelle Elliott
Tonya Elmasri Langley
Erika Espinoza
Crystal Estrada
Johnny Evans
Jeff Fagin
Henry and Rochelle Featheran
Cheryl Fenell
Darrell and Cathy Ferreira
Dr. John Fleckles
Lorraine Flores
Starla Frost
Alexis Frost
Barbara Fujioka
Dawn Furumoto
June Futenma
Alan Gage
Michelle Galimba
David Garcia
Anna Garcia
Ricky Garcia
Maria Gardea
Mary Gast
Penelope Geng
Casey Giacomazzi
Remy Glick
Joyce Gohier
Paul Goley
Jeremy Gomer
Maria Gomez
Ryan Goo
Henry Goodrow
Lisa Goodwin
Matthew Gordon
Jay Gould
Laura Griffin
Mary Haas
Perry and Linda Hachler
Jill Hammond
Jacqueline Hankins
Archie Hapai III and Dr. Marlene Hapai
Rukie Harris
Breshawn Harris
Fred Hartmeister
Scott Hayashi
Tiffany Hayes
Aleah Hayes
Steven Hein
Melissa Hein
Kenneth and Marissa Hilgers
Craig Hirasaki
Pat Hlifka
Steven Holen
Ardis Holen
Glenn Hong
Sandra Hopson-Davis
Howard Humphreys, Jr. and Sylvia Humphreys
Randall Ige
Antonio Iglesias
Suzanne Ikeda
Melanie Ioans
Eugene Ishihara
Drs. Craig Iwamoto and Alexis Raftopoulos
Laura Jalbert
Ashley Jalufka
Maris Janson
Timothy Janson
Amy Jaraczeskii
Wendy Johansen
Leonard and Sheila Johnson
Shanae Jones
Amy Jones
Joyce Kaapuni
Melissa Kaapuni
Amy Kalua
Laura Kamoku
Timothy Kaneshiro
Ray Kawaguchi
Robert Kay
Rosanna Kaywood
Gary Keefer
James Kelly
Steven Kenshur
Sarah Kent
Kairit Kerde
Jodie Kimura
Joni King
Pamela Knapp
Patrick and Kris Kobayashi
Kim Krohn
Lynette Krueger
Anita Krueger
Kevin Kruse
Fr. William Kunisch II
Eric and Miriam Kusuda
Janiece Lake
George LaRosa
Rogers Laugand
Lynn Lee
Dr. Ernest and Letah Lee
Drs. Worldster and Patricia Lee
Melisa Lencina
Colleen Leone
Kathy Leopoldino
Dennis Lew
Ralph Lilly
Jodi Lingan
Yuedan Liu
Joselyn Loiselle
Pura Lopez
Dr. Michael and Cynthia Loui
Patricia Lum
Deborah Ann Lum
Tennyson Lum
Dana Lynge
Judy Ma
Jacqueline MacDonald
Linda Marez
Sonia Marquez
Irma Martinez
Robin Martinez
Gustavo and Sonia Matamoros
Angelina Matlock
Patrick Matsumoto
Elise Matsumoto
Diane Matsuura and The late
Kenneth Matsuura
Keven Matsuura
In McCann
Mary McCullough
Bruce and Bee McEachen
Victor Medina
George Menino
Tia Menino
Brenda Meyers
Analia Mihalik
Brent Miller
George Miyashiro
Reid Mizuguchi
M. R. Molinar
Richard and Patricia
Montgomery
Dr. Barbara Motola Alford
Christopher and Judith Munoz
Evan Murakami
Sara Nagata
Patricia Niederkohr
Rory and Lori Nishino
Darryl Nitta
Kehaunani Noa
William Oettmeier
Linda Oettmeier
Tracey Oh
Ray and Annette Okimoto
Clerrissa Oliva
Austin Olson
Lisa Olson
Kelly Olson
Jerry and Arlene Ono
Billy Ornellas
Jan Oshiro
Joe and Linda Pacquing
Mary Palmer
Carl Pao
Bella Parado
Thomas and Mary Parpana
Albert Paschoal
Carla Pasetti
Daniel Pavsek
Alejandra Pena
Johnny Pena
Anthony Pena
Frank Piani
Rick Piani
Henry and Lorraine Pieloch
Rory Pitts
Jody Poling
Jeremy Ponce De Leon
Noelani Puniwai
Adelina Quintanilla
Tammy Randall
Daniel and Susan Reedy
Mariliz Reilly
Sonia Renteria
Linda Renwick
Eleanor Ricarte
Edward Rivera
David Rivera
Patrick Rizer
Althea Rodrigues
David Rodriguez
Gabriel Rodriguez
Elizabeth Rodriguez
Rayna Rodriguez
Jean Rolfe
Gabriela Romero
Robert and Tana Rosehill
Angela Ross
Julio Rossi
Alison Rutledge
James and Anne Sadayasu
Kathleen Marie Sadsad
Heather Sahli
Ambassador Charles Salmon, Jr.
Gordon Sam
Raymond and Rosemarie
San Nicolas
Mallory Sanford
Daniel Schneider
Anahllely Schneider
Lt. Col. John and Rieko Schriml
Margaret Schulz
Gregory and Karin Scott
Catherine Scott
Elsie Serna
Shana Li Serna
Sheila Shutts
Wallace Simanu
Joanna Singstock
Henry Smith
Geoffrey and Amy Somary
Alfred Souza III
William Squier
Steve Squier
Frances Squier
Douglas Squier
Marylee Stamos
Abigail Stamos
Chris Stanich
Derek and Donna Stewart
Katiana Sukamto
Mike Swain
Kathryn Sweeney
Charlotte Swenson
Paul and Patricia Taylor
Dr. Virginia Teller
Stanley and Roberta Tokumaru
Nadine Tonaki
Brandon Tonaki
Dane Tonaki
Nancy Turnbach
Erin Turnbach
Margaret Turnbach
Dr. Hoi Sang and Vivien Ü
Thomas Ursulum
Shaun Ushijima
Ryan Uyechi
Hannah Van De Car
Donnie Vannoy
Doug Venneri
Elyse Vigiletti
Brianna Visa
Michele Visceglia
Lisa Vital
Echoly Vue
Frederick Waller
John and Theresa Walsh
Jennifer Weaver
Duane Weaver
Pamela Weigandt
Aaron Westra
Mary Westra
Beth Whitehead
Crystal Williams
Ronald and Kathleen Wo
Michael Wong
Kelsey Wong
Ryan Yamamoto
Kylie Ye
Patrick and Sandy Yim
Jeffrey and Mary Young
Helen Yuen
Stephen Yuen
William Yuen
Nicole Zheng
FOUNDATIONS, ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESSES
Anonymous Donors
American AgCredit
Anne Namba Designs,Inc.
Aramark Campus Services
Atherton Family Foundation
Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaii
Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii
Center Marianist Community
Chaminade University
Educational Foundation
Chung Kun Ai Foundation
Dawn Marie, Esthetician LLC
Edward Enterprises, Inc.
Eventbrite
First Hawaiian Bank
First Hawaiian Bank Foundation
Franz Yuen Physical Therapy LLC
Frederic Duclos Barstow
Foundation for American Samoans
G & G Entertainment, Inc.
G.N. Wilcox Trust
Glenn W. Bailey Foundation
Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union
Hawai‘i Community Foundation
Hawaii Government Employees Association
Hawaii Longshore Division Stabilization Fund
Hawaii Malls, Inc.
Hawaii Pacific University
Hawaii Tax Institute Foundation
Hawai‘i Xi Chapter Alpha
Delta Kappa
Hawaiian Emporium Inc
HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union
HCA Healthcare Foundation
Ho‘ea Foundation
Hogan Family Foundation
Hughes Family Charitable Foundation
Ironworkers Union Local 625
J. Watumull Fund
Cutter Family Auto Centers
Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies
Kemper Sports Management
KM Business Ventures LLC
Lesnik Charitable Foundation
Marianist Center of Hawai‘i
Maurice & Joanna Sullivan Family Foundation
Mildred Towle Scholarship Trust
OCCPA LLC
Pepsi Beverages Company
Queen’s Health System
Sacred Hearts Academy
Saint Louis School
Sidney Stern Memorial Trust
Sisters of the Sacred Hearts
Sports Travel Hawaii
St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawai‘i
Sukamto Foundation, Inc.
The Babington Carpenter Family Foundation
The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation
The Dods Foundation
The Edward and Peggy Eu Foundation
The Samuel N. and Mary Castle Foundation
United Public Workers AFSCME Local 646 AFL-CIO
Ushijima Architects, Inc.
Verizon Foundation
Vincent E. & Katherine J. Neal Memorial Fund
William H. Hannon Foundation
Submit Your Class Notes*
Please be sure to share your good news with the Chaminade community and include the following:
• FULL NAME, GRADUATION YEAR and MAJOR (include maiden name and spouse’s name, if applicable)
• CONTACT INFORMATION (email and phone number)
• PHOTOS are encouraged (high resolution preferred: 300 dpi or 1.5 MB in size)
SCAN THE QR CODE and complete our online form (make sure to use this form!)
EMAIL: alumni@chaminade.edu
MAIL: Office of Alumni Relations 3140 Wai‘alae Avenue Honolulu, HI 96816
*All notes are edited for style, content and length.
In Memoriam
Chaminade University extends heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of the alumni we have recently lost. They remain forever part of our ‘ohana.
The University also strives to maintain accurate records. Please notify us when an alumnus or an alumna has passed away. Emails can be sent to alumni@chaminade.edu. Mahalo.
CLASS
1973, 1975 Frank Evans
1974 James J. Mace
1975 Joyce B. (Fuller) Wood
1975 Ines M. (Ngcheed) Willis
1976 Jose L. Longoria
1977 Johnie L. Morgan
1977 Lt. Michael J. Boling, USN (Ret.)
1979 Charles "Chuck" S. Gerrior
1980 Kerry T.C. Lam
1980 James E. Moore
1983 Capt. Brian D. Lumbert, USAF (Ret.)
2003 Gary E. Liebl, Honorary
3140 Wai‘alae Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96816 -1578
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
A PRIVATE COLLEGE EDUCATION THAT’S AFFORDABLE
As part of Chaminade University’s service-oriented mission, we are committed to helping make the dream of higher education accessible to all Hawaiʻi students.
Chaminade’s “Hawai’i Guarantee,” designed for Hawai’i high school seniors entering college as freshmen, meets the in-state resident undergraduate tuition and provides an achievable pathway to graduate in four years.
LEARN MORE! For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@chaminade.edu or (808) 739-8340.
