CHAMINADE BOUND
(Welcome)
NEW SILVERSWORD! Welina Mai,
We’re thrilled to have you join our Chaminade University family and are excited to be on this next great adventure with you! As you prepare for what lies ahead, know that we are here to support you every step of the way—academically, personally and spiritually. Your journey will be filled with opportunities for growth, discovery and connection. We look forward to the contributions you will make to our community. Get ready to have life-changing experiences and create everlasting memories. Welcome to Chaminade University!
FIRST THINGS FIRST
Before you dive into your Silversword guide, here are a few important action items for you to ensure a smooth and successful start this fall.
To-Do Checklist:
Know your student ID number
It’s important to know your student ID number as you will use it to log into different platforms to access your information and resources. You can find your ID number in an email that was sent to you after you submitted your deposit.
Check your student Gmail account and Self-Service Portal
Your Self-Service Portal contains your financial account, class schedule and other valuable information. Your student Gmail account will be the primary and official means by which Chaminade University will communicate with you.
Get your Chaminade student ID card
Students must have a University ID card. It’s used to check out library items, attend certain campus events, use campus facilities, and receive University services. It’s also used for your meal plan and more. Check your Chaminade email for instructions on how to get your ID card online (avoiding the long lines and wait time).
Submit your final documents by June 13
High school students must submit their final official high school transcripts showing completion of senior year and verification of graduation, as well as AP, IB, and/or college transcripts if enrolled in dual enrollment/early college programs.
Transfer students must provide final official copies of all college transcripts if they were not provided at the time of application. Please contact your college’s Records department to submit these documents as soon as you finish your last term.
Send your transcripts to: Office of Admissions
3140 Waialae Avenue Honolulu, HI 96816 Or email to: transcripts@chaminade.edu
Get your credits evaluated
If you took AP, IB, or CLEP tests and received scores eligible for college credit, participated in Running Start or Early College while in high school and took college-level coursework, or are transferring from another college or university, request to get your credits evaluated. AP and CLEP scores need to be requested directly from College Board to Chaminade University to receive an evaluation of these scores. IB scores can be requested through your IB account; select Chaminade University to receive the scores.
REQUEST TO HAVE YOUR CREDITS EVALUATED
Meet with your Academic Advisor and review your class schedule
Your Academic Advisor will create your fall schedule using your official transcripts and test scores. Once they complete your schedule, you will be notified by email and will be able to log into your Self-Service Portal to view it.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ACADEMIC ADVISING
Purchase your textbooks and Chaminade gear
After reviewing your class schedule with your Academic Advisor, order your books and course material through our Barnes & Noble campus bookstore. Make sure to also grab Chaminade threads to add to your wardrobe.
Submit your health forms by August 24
Chaminade University follows the State of Hawai‘i Health Clearance Requirements and requires student health information for use in emergencies or epidemic situations. All Chaminade students must submit:
• Tuberculosis (TB) clearance
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) immunization record
• Tetanus-Diptheria-Pertussis (Tdap) immunization record
• Varicella immunization record
Students who live in residence halls, are student-athletes or are international students are required to provide proof of health insurance.
Proof of health insurance is required for:
• students living in residence halls
• student athletes
• international students
Students living in campus residence halls who are 21 years of age and younger must submit their Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV) immunization record.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CHAMINADE’S HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Housing, Dining & Transportation
HOME SWEET HOME
Getting ready to live on campus is exciting, but preparing for move-in day and not knowing what to bring can be stressful. Don’t worry—we can help lighten the load! Let’s get ready for move-in day, happening Thursday, August 21.
1. Start packing early
Create a packing checklist to ensure you have all the items you need (or want) to bring for living at Chaminade. Make sure you pack for Hawai‘i weather—you can leave your heavy snow jackets at home!
2. Make a list of things you can buy near campus
Whether you’re coming by car or plane, space is limited.
Make a list of all the essentials you can buy in stores near campus, like bedding, room decor, toiletries, school supplies and late-night snacks.
YOUR “WHAT TO BRING” CHECKLIST
DINING
3. Know what appliances are permitted in your room
All our on-campus residence halls have a full community kitchen, and each room will come furnished with a bed, wardrobe, desk, chair and waste bins. Know what appliances are allowed in your room.
LIST OF PERMITTED AND PROHIBITED ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
4. Coordinate with your roommate
Connect with your roommate and create a list of shared items, like appliances, to help coordinate who will bring each item.
5. Learn about the Residence Hall Association (RHA)
The RHA is a student-led organization that aims to enhance the residential experience for students living in the residence halls. They organize events and activities to foster a sense of community.
Meal plans and Debit Dollars are available to residents and commuting students. The Silversword Café is home to the freshest flavors with all-you-can-eat meals, while the P.O.D. offers grab-and-go options. A meal plan is required if you live in an on-campus residence hall.
HULA (Plan A) $3,100 / semester*
10 meals per week, $150 debit dollars, two guest meals
MAHALO (Plan B) $4,240 / semester*
14 meals per week, $150 debit dollars, two guest meals
ALOHA (Plan C) $4,470 / semester*
Unlimited meals per week, $150 debit dollars, two guest meals
WAI’ALAE APARTMENTS & NON-RESIDENTS ONLY
$1,430/ semester*
80 meals total, $150 debit dollars
*Resident housing and meal plan rates for academic year 2025–2026. May be subject to change.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DINING ON CAMPUS
Don’t need a meal plan? No problem!
The Silversword Café and the P.O.D. accept cash and credit cards.
PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION
Parking Permit
Parking permits are available to both commuter and residence hall students. Students have designated parking spaces around campus. A parking permit is required Monday–Friday, 6 am–4 pm. Parking permits can be purchased at the Business Office.
• Vehicle parking excluding residence hall parking:
$210/semester*
• Vehicle parking including on-campus residence hall parking: $255/semester*
• Vehicle parking including Wai‘alae Apartments parking: $270/semester*
• Motorcycle/moped parking including all residence hall parking: $85/semester*
Transportation Pass
Not driving? We offer students a discounted transportation pass. The HOLO card allows students to ride TheBus and Honolulu Rail Transit. Transportation passes can be purchased at the Business office.
• Full-time day undergraduate students: $150/term*
• Full-time day undergraduate students residing in Wai‘alae Apartments: $40/term*
* Academic year 2024–2025 rates. Rates are subject to change for academic year 2025–2026.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION
FINANCING YOUR FUTURE
We know the financial part of college can feel overwhelming and confusing, so we’ve collected everything you need to know in one place.
Financial Aid
Our dedicated financial aid counselors will help you remove financial barriers, provide you with resources and answer any questions you may have.
FINANCIAL AID NEXT STEPS
1. Review your financial aid award with a financial aid counselor. Your award can be found in your Admissions Portal (apply.chaminade.edu/account).
2. Accept or decline your financial aid award in your SelfService Portal (selfservice.chaminade.edu/student).
3. If you’re a first-time borrower, complete the loan entrance counseling and master promissory note.
If you have any questions, contact Financial Aid at (808) 735-4780 or finaid@chaminade.edu.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FINANCIAL AID PROCESS
Prepare for Tuition Payment
Your first bill will be emailed to you after July 1. Tuition, room and board, and fees must be paid prior to the start of the semester. Be sure to check your Chaminade email for important reminders. You may view your account balance, enroll in a Tuition Payment Plan or make a payment at any time in your Self-Service Portal (selfservice.chaminade.edu/student).
WAYS TO PAY YOUR TUITION
• Payment in full of net amount due (online, check, or payment in person)
• Enroll in a tuition payment plan
• Financial aid awards and/or loans
• Military Education Benefits (including Tuition Assistance or VA Benefits)
• Tuition waivers
• Third-party payment
If you have any questions about tuition billing and payments, contact the Business Office at (808) 735-4898 or businessoffice-ar@chaminade.edu.
LEARN MORE ABOUT STUDENT BILLING AND PAYMENTS
Military and Veteran Benefits
We’re proud to support our service members and their families. Our Records team is happy to assist you in navigating the use of your educational benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact Records at records@chaminade.edu or (808) 735-4815.
LEARN MORE ABOUT EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS
2025–2026 ACADEMIC YEAR
8/25
10/1
FALL TERM KICK-OFF
You’ve been waiting, and the moment has finally arrived—you’ll step onto campus and officially start your journey as a Silversword. (Yes, we are just as excited as you are!) Welcome Week is an opportunity for you (and your family) to meet our ‘ohana, make friends, be a part of our traditions, and start getting involved.
Apo Haumana Program
New Student Retreat
Thursday, August 21
The Apo Haumana Program is designed to make your first-year experience unforgettable through faculty and peer mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities. The new student retreat offers an immersive introduction to life at Chaminade, setting the stage for a strong start to your college journey. Check your Chaminade email for your retreat invitation. Registration is on a first-come, firstserved basis, so make sure to RSVP as soon as possible.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE APO HAUMANA PROGRAM
New Student Orientation
Friday, August 22
We’re excited to welcome you and your family to Chaminade University. At New Student Orientation, you’ll get to know our campus; meet other new Silverswords; learn what to expect in your academic program; chat with your faculty; and discover the many resources, services, and opportunities available to you to ensure your success here. New Student Orientation is required for all new undergraduate students. It’s your opportunity to understand what it means to be a Silversword.
REGISTER AND LEARN MORE ABOUT NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
Welcome Week
Week of August 25
Enjoy a weeklong celebration of welcoming new and returning students to campus. The Office of Student Engagement hosts various events including a picnic, trips to Ala Moana Shopping Center, and social nights—giving you opportunities to meet other students and start getting involved!
CHECK THE EVENTS CALENDAR FOR WELCOME BACK WEEK EVENTS
Spiritual Convocation
Wednesday, August 27
Open to students of all faiths, the Spiritual Convocation marks the beginning of the academic year and welcomes students, faculty and staff members. We come together to pray for guidance, wisdom and blessings throughout the year.
Keep up with all the campus happenings— check out our events calendar.
QUICK LINKS
9 ACADEMIC ADVISING
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Garden Level chaminade.edu/academic-advising advising@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4815
Your Academic Advisor will support you throughout your academic journey, from building your class schedule to connecting you with career opportunities.
9 ADMISSIONS
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Lobby chaminade.edu/admissions admissions@chaminade.edu / (808) 739-8340
Helps you through the admissions and application process.
22 ATHLETICS goswords.com
We have 12 NCAA Division II PacWest men’s and women’s athletic teams. Students have free admission to all sporting events. Go Swords!
9 BUSINESS OFFICE
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Lobby businessoffice-ar@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4711
Manages billing and payment of your tuition, fees and housing charges, disbursement of student loans, and more. Parking permits and bus passes may also be purchased here.
9 CAMPUS MINISTRY
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Room cuhministry.com cuhministry@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4774
Offers a space for friendship, conversation and understanding. It supports spiritual growth and exploration, and provides support and guidance for all students.
21 CAMPUS SECURITY
Campus Security Building chaminade.edu/security security@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4792
Our security team provides a safe and secure campus environment. Our SafeSwords Program offers security escort to your residence hall, class, and car.
20 CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Student Services Building chaminade.edu/career-development careers@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4886
Preparing you for life after college, your Career Coach will provide you with resources, connect you to internships and jobs, prepare you for the job application process, and more.
5 COUNSELING CENTER
Tredtin Hall, Room 201C chaminade.edu/counseling-center counselingcenter@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4845
Supports you through personal challenges and ensures your well-being through one-on-one counseling, peer counseling, crisis counseling, trauma treatment and more.
9 FINANCIAL AID
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Garden Level chaminade.edu/admissions admissions@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4780
Provides financial aid opportunities and resources. Your Financial Aid Counselor can walk you through the FAFSA process and your financial aid award.
17 HOGAN ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Kieffer Hall, Room 12 chaminade.edu/hogan hogan@chaminade.edu / (808) 440-4280
Open to all majors, a certificate program that allows you to learn from experienced Hawai‘i entrepreneurs and business and community leaders.
8 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & SERVICES
Sullivan Family Library chaminade.edu/its cstechsupport@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4855
Provides the campus community with IT services and connects you with the technology, tools and resources you need.
20 KŌKUA ‘IKE: CENTER FOR STUDENT LEARNING
Student Services Building chaminade.edu/kokua-ike kokuaike@chaminade.edu / (808) 739-8305
Provides study spaces, tutoring options, and accommodations for students who need special learning assistance.
9 MARIANIST LEADERSHIP CENTER
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Room 201 chaminade.edu/marianist-leadership-center mlc@chaminade.edu
Develop your leadership skills as they relate to Marianiast and Native Hawaiian values by participating in workshops throughout the year.
14 P.O.D. MARKET
Henry Hall chaminade.edu/dining-services
Enjoy on-the-go snacks and drinks and grab-and-go meals. You’ll find everything you need to fuel up.
9 RECORDS & REGISTRAR
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Garden Level chaminade.edu/registrar records@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4815
Maintains all official student academic records and helps you navigate through your academic journey at Chaminade University from registration to graduation.
17 RESIDENCE LIFE
Kieffer Hall, Room 11 chaminade.edu/reslife reslife@chaminade.edu / (808) 739-4649
Provides a safe, secure, and inclusive living-learning environment and helps you make lifelong connections that support your personal growth.
5 SILVERSWORD CAFÉ
Tredtin Hall chaminade.edu/dining-services
The Silversword Café offers a full menu of all-you-can-eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a place to hang out with friends or to study.
9 STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Room 106 chaminade.edu/student-engagement getinvolved@chaminade.edu / (808) 739-8556
Enhance your Chaminade experience through student clubs and organizations, on and off-campus events, and opportunities to foster new relationships.
9 STUDY ABROAD
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Garden Level chaminade.edu/study-abroad advising@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4815
Your gateway to expand your horizons, understand different cultures, challenge yourself and discover new worlds.
8 SULLIVAN FAMILY LIBRARY
Sullivan Family Library chaminade.edu/sullivan-library library@chaminade.edu / (808) 735-4725
Offers resources, services and expertise to support your learning. It also has a computer lab and study spaces for group meetings.
9 UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH & PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS
Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, Garden Level chaminade.edu/undergrad-research ourppp@chaminade.edu / (808) 739-8390
Connects you with advanced academic opportunities and provides services including advising, test preparation, summer programs, professional seminars, and internships.
CHAMINADE CAMPUS
WE'RE FROM CHAMINADE UNIVERSITY OF COURSE WE...
KNOW BLESSED WILLIAM JOSEPH CHAMINADE.
He is our University’s namesake and the founder of the Society of Mary, also known as the Marianists. Just like the Marianists, we emphasize community, inclusivity, faith and service to others.
Fun fact: Chaminade is pronounced sham-i-nawd (not like the sports drink).
HAVE TO EXPLAIN WHAT A SILVERSWORD IS.
As the University mascot, the Silversword is a rare native Hawaiian plant found only on Hawai‘i’s rugged high-altitude volcanic landscape, flowering only once and scattering its seeds in the wind. Like the Silversword, you are unique and will challenge the status quo—you’ll grow, bloom and create a ripple of positive change.
Fun fact: the Hawaiian word for Silversword is ‘ahinahina.
WEAR CHAMINADE COLORS ON WEDNESDAYS
(AND EVERY OTHER DAY).
We are proud to rep our colors—Chaminade blue and silver. Grab your Chaminade and Silversword gear at our campus bookstore (chaminade.edu/bookstore).
Fun fact: ‘āhinahina is also the Hawaiian word for gray.
TREND IN KAIMUKĪ.
Our 65-acre campus is just outside of Waikīkī in the Kaimukī (pronounced ky-moo-kee) neighborhood of Honolulu. It has everything to keep you trending on TikTok and Insta—cute boutiques, local restaurants and cafés, tasty treats, made-in-Hawai‘i gifts, a farmers’ market and hikes.
Fun fact: we’re ranked #1 in Best College Location in Hawai‘i by Niche.
NEED-TO-KNOW UNIVERSITY LINGO
THIS VS. THAT — KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN:
Admissions Counselor: The person who helped you throughout the Chaminade admissions process.
Office of the President: This office provides the vision and leadership of our University. Chaminade’s president is Dr. Lynn Babington.
Financial Aid: This office builds your financial aid package and provides you with resources to help fund your Chaminade education. If you have any questions, our Financial Aid counselors are always happy to help you.
Dean of Students: This office creates a fun, inclusive, and vibrant campus. It’ll also support you academically, socially, and personally. Chaminade’s Dean of Students is Dr. Allison Jerome.
HAVE YOU HEARD…
Academic Catalog: An online publication that provides important academic dates, academic policies, degree programs and courses.
Concentration: A specialized area of study within your major, allowing you to focus on a specific interest that matches your career goals.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): A federal law that protects your education records, keeping them confidential between you and Chaminade University.
Hale: Hawaiian word for house, building, or institution. You’ll find a few of our buildings have this title in their names. Hale Lokelani and Hale Pohaku are residence halls, and Hale Hoaloha is home to classrooms and our Student Learning and Community Engagement office.
Kuleana: Hawaiian word for responsibility and encourages us to be accountable for all that we do.
Academic Advisor: The person dedicated to your academic success— creating your academic plan, scheduling your classes, connecting you with opportunities and more. You should meet with your academic advisor at least once a term.
Office of the Provost: This office oversees all things academic—from the academic schools and programs to the academic support and resources we’ll provide you with throughout your Chaminade journey. Chaminade’s Provost is Dr. Lance Askildson.
Business Office: This office provides you with your student billing statements (e.g. tuition). It’s also where you can register for a parking pass or purchase a bus pass. If you have any questions about tuition billing or payment, the Business Office can help you.
Academic Dean: The person who leads the academic school, its faculty members and academic programs. You may even have a dean as one of your professors.
Kumu: Hawaiian word for teacher or guide and is used for practitioners and those who are knowledgeable of Hawaiian culture, practices and traditions. Kumu serve as a source of knowledge, inspiration and wisdom.
Marianist: A member of the Society of Mary, often referred to as a Marianist Brother or Father. They are part of the Chaminade ‘ohana professors, advisors, and counselors. A brother is a man who has professed vows and commits to living the religious life in response to God. A father, or priest, is a brother who has completed seminary studies and is an ordained minister, with the affirmation of their province members.
‘Ohana: Hawaiian word for family and includes anyone who is part of a supportive and loving community.
Registrar: This office keeps and maintains your academic record. If you need to request transcripts, change your information, or check your enrollment status, this office will help you.
Syllabus: A document from your professor that outlines the course and provides you with essential information (assignments, deadlines, exam dates, etc.)
