Shidler Business Fall/Winter 2024 Issue

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Volume 47, Number 2

Fall/Winter 202 4

INSIDE: Empowering Tourism’s Future Professionals: Ho‘oilina Scholars | Professor Jing Ai Talk Story with the CEO Features Sean Ganhinhin

DEAN’S MESSAGE

ALOHA,

As we reflect on 2024, I am deeply grateful for our Shidler College of Business community. Your support has driven our mission to shape future leaders, innovators and changemakers. Last year, we celebrated our 75th anniversary, raising critical funds to further the college’s mission through our signature events:

Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism raised $517,000 for student scholarships, while honoring Hawai‘i’s hospitality and tourism leaders.

Hall of Honor Awards honored five distinguished alumni and raised over $340,000 for the Shidler Advancement Fund.

Scholarship Luncheon welcomed over 300 donors and students to celebrate $1.1 million in scholarships awarded last fiscal year.

Shidler College’s enrollment continues to grow despite national trends. Over the past five years, Exploratory Business enrollment has surged by 75%, and we’ve seen recent gains of 20% in Accounting, 10% in Travel Industry Management (TIM), and an impressive 40% in Information Technology Management.

Shidler College continues to excel in rankings:

Consistently ranked among the top 20 in the U.S. for International Business (U.S. News & World Report, 2024).

TIM School ranked 15th in the U.S. and 46th globally for Hospitality and Leisure Management (QS World University Rankings, 2024).

The Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship and the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center earned recognition as one of the world’s top university entrepreneurship programs.

We’re grateful to revitalize key spaces to enhance the student experience:

The Eddie and Elaine Flores, Jr. Courtyard now features 32 new tables and umbrellas, generously donated by Jay H. Shidler, and renamed to honor the Flores’ contributions.

The TIM School’s Sunset Reference Center was refreshed through the support of the late Ambassador Bill Lane and Dean Chuck Gee.

The Carolyn L. Ching Auditorium was upgraded and renamed, honoring the late alumna’s $1 million gift.

These milestones showcase the strength of our Shidler ‘ohana. With the partnership of our alumni, donors and friends, we’re proud to build futures and solidify our position as a leader in international business education. Mahalo for your continued support as we look ahead to another year of growth and innovation.

Sincerely,

Shidler Business is published twice annually for alumni, students and friends of the Shidler College of Business.

Direct correspondence to:

Shidler College of Business University of Hawai‘i at Ma¯noa 2404 Maile Way, C202, Honolulu, HI 96822 (808) 956-6044 | dani.douglass@uhfoundation.org

ADMINISTRATION

DEAN | V. Vance Roley

INTERIM ASSOCIATE DEAN | Elizabeth Davidson

ASSISTANT DEAN OF STUDENT SERVICES | Robin Hadwick, EMBA ’00

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT | Jennifer Lieu

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI & EXTERNAL

RELATIONS | Bianca Mordasini

EDITORIAL STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Dani Douglass

WRITER | Christine Quach, BBA ’19

GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Kiana Loftis

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS | Scott Nishi, Paula Ota & Tyson Yamada, BBA ’03, MBA ’07

WEB | Loren Swendsen, MBA ’07

CIRCULATION NUMBERS

Print 14,116 | Digital 19,562

shidler.hawaii.edu/magazine

DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION

Alumni with a valid email receive Shidler Business digitally. Please update your record with a valid email using the QR code or URL below. shidler.hawaii.edu/magazine/update

Volume 47, Number 2 Fall/Winter 2024

THE COVER

Sakuma, BBA ’24, celebrates her graduation.

Shidler College of Business Advisory Council

Features

| Ho‘oilina Scholars

| VEMBA Back in Business College News

| Financial Symposium

| Rick’s Corner

| Student Snapshots

| What’s Happening at PACE Faculty and Staff Notes

| Notable Mentions Donor News

| K.K. Seo Scholarship

| Updated Spaces Alumni News

| Alumni Features

| Alumni Snapshots

| Class Notes

| Talk Story Features Sean Ganhinhin

| Alumni at Work Features The Kahala Hotel & Resort

CHAIR | Robin K. Campaniano, EMBA ’83, Former President & CEO, Farmers Insurance Hawaii | MEMBERS | Steven Ai, President & CEO, City Mill Company, Ltd. | Jeremiah “Jay” Ana, BBA ’98, President, Young Brothers | Robert F. Clarke, Former Chairman, President & CEO, Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. | Matthew Cox, Chairman & CEO, Matson Navigation Company | John C. Dean, Chairman Emeritus, Central Pacific Bank | Susan Eichor, MBA ’90, President & COO, aio | Eddie Flores, Jr., BBA ’70, Founder, L&L Franchise, Inc. | Terri Fujii, BBA ’84, MAcc ’85, Managing Partner, CW Associates, CPAs | Robert Harrison, Chairman, President & CEO, First Hawaiian Bank | David A. Heenan, Former Trustee, The Estate of James Campbell | Shelee Kimura, BBA ’95, President & CEO, Hawaiian Electric | Constance H. Lau, Former President & CEO, Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. | Nelson K.M. Lau, BBA ’85, Former Managing Partner, KPMG, LLP | Ross Murakami, BBA ’87, Founding Partner, KMH LLP | Diane Paloma, MBA ’99, President & CEO, Hawaii Dental Service | Lance Parker, President & CEO, Alexander and Baldwin | Emily Reber Porter, COO, The MacNaughton Group | Jean E. Rolles, Former Vice President, Community Affairs, Outrigger Enterprises, Inc. | Todd Takayama, BBA ’90, President & CEO, First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd. | Scott Seu, President & CEO, Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. | Kent K. Tsukamoto, BBA ’78, Former Managing Partner, Accuity LLP | Keith M. Vieira, BBA ’79, Principal, KV & Assoc., Hospitality Consulting, LLC | Richard Wacker, Former President & CEO, American Savings Bank | Eric Yeaman, BBA ’89, Managing Partner, Hoku Capital, LLC | Joe Young, BBA ’98, Managing Partner – Hawai‘i, Deloitte & Touche

EMPOWERING TOURISM’S FUTURE PROFESSIONALS

Since 2019, the Ho‘oilina Scholarship has provided full tuition for up to four years to students pursuing a degree in travel industry management (TIM). To date, 16 students in two cohorts have graduated and four students are currently working toward their degrees. The scholarship recently received the green light to be offered once again for the 2025 school year.

The Ho‘oilina scholarship is an amazing opportunity for Hawai‘i public high school graduates and Hawai‘i residents. It demonstrates the commitment of the Hawai‘i State Legislature to support and fund the education of our local students, greatly reducing or eliminating their college debts.” -Vance Roley

For the incoming cohort, five students will receive the Hawai‘i Tourism Ho‘oilina Scholarship.

Students can use the funding to pay for tuition-related fees. The Ho‘oilina Scholarship was established through a partnership between the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Hawai‘i Lodging and Tourism Association (HTA) and the School of Travel Industry Management (TIM School).

“Cultivating the next generation of Hawai‘i’s diverse professionals is a key component of HTA’s commitment to championing workforce development throughout the state,” said Daniel Naho‘opi‘i, HTA’s interim president and CEO. “We are proud to continue supporting local students and graduates as the Ho‘oilina Scholarship embodies a legacy of excellence, providing vital pathways for kama‘aina to remain here at home and transition from education to rewarding careers powered by our visitor industry.”

TIM alumna Sarah Lorenzo, BS ’23, was one of the scholarship’s first recipients. During her time as a student at the TIM School, she completed an internship at the RitzCarlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. Following her graduation, Lorenzo was hired as a front desk staff member at the hotel.

“A big part of the scholarship for

me, it really just motivated me to want to do good in the industry,” Lorenzo said. “Yes, it provided me with a lot of opportunities and skills to get my name out there and network with people. But it was also about the people behind you. It’s very motivating and it makes you want to do good in the industry and want to become a leader. They want to see you succeed.”

The 2025 scholarship application is open until March 1 shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/ hooilina-scholarship-application

GET TO KNOW OUR HO‘OILINA SCHOLARS:

We asked Leslie Ann Agustin, Sally Citrawireja, Audrey Hedges and Dylan Morikawa, who make up Cohort 4 for an insider look into life as a Ho‘oilina Scholarship recipient:

What does this program mean to you and your education?

Agustin: “To me, it’s so much more than just a degree, it is a pathway to personal and professional growth. I’m building lifelong connections, developing leadership abilities and understanding cultural awareness.”

Citrawireja: “It’s been an incredibly special and valuable addition to my life. Since enrolling in TIM, I’ve been exposed to numerous networking opportunities, met amazing people and honed my communication skills.”

Hedges: “It’s helped me establish my life path and develop my passions. This program makes me feel incredibly supported, and I love having classes with people with similar aspirations and drive. This program and generation of young adults is a force.”

Morikawa: “It’s allowed me to pursue a higher education without the added stress of college tuition, which has really helped me in exploring what I want to do with my future. It has opened many opportunities for me and allowed me to meet so many new people and learn so much from different people.”

How does receiving this scholarship help you?

Agustin: “It’s supported me mentally, physically and emotionally in my educational journey. It has taken away financial stress, so that I can focus more on my studies, extracurricular activities and personal development. It has also boosted my confidence by validating my hard work and dedication.”

Citrawireja: “It has been life changing for my family and I. It has taken away financial stress, so that I can focus on my education and personal growth. As the eldest of five siblings, it inspires me to set a strong example for my younger brothers and sisters, showing them that dreams can be achieved with support and determination.”

Hedges: “I am humbled and grateful to be a Ho‘oilina Scholar and this scholarship motivates me to perform my best in my classes and take advantage of every opportunity. It encourages me to set an example for students around me and immerse myself in the content I learn in my classes.”

Morikawa: “This scholarship has allowed me to save money to help my family with our other debts, and has given me a lot of breathing room for self-discovery. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity and want to use it to give back to my family.”

Why did you decide to pursue your degree in travel and tourism?

Agustin: “I have a passion for creating meaningful experiences and promoting cultural understanding and I want to play a role in making the

industry more sustainable, culturally respectful and innovative.”

Citrawireja: “I love to connect with people and create meaningful experiences. I grew up as an immigrant in the United States and witnessing the rich culture of Hawai‘i has motivated me to contribute to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage while building a career that fosters community and global connections.”

Hedges: “Personality-wise, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career where I made people feel joy and cared for. I realized that hospitality combines business and making people feel cared for.”

Morikawa: “My best memories are of my family visiting hotels and theme parks, and I’d like to be able to make those experiences possible for other families like my own.”

shidler.hawaii.edu/tim/hooilinascholarship

PROFESSOR CHAMPIONING COLLABORATION AND EMBRACING GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

First Insurance Company

Distinguished Professor Jing Ai wears many hats at Shidler College. In addition to teaching several undergraduate and graduate level classes, she’s also a researcher, director of Shidler College’s Ph.D. program and a faculty advisor to insurance and risk management track students.

Her own journey in the field began as an undergraduate finance major in her home country of China. Her interest was piqued when Tsinghua University in Beijing introduced a concentration in risk management, which focused on managing everyday uncertainties to improve lives. This curiosity inspired her pursuit of a doctoral degree in risk management. She chose to focus on schools in the United States because she wanted a rigorous academic

program, which she got when she was accepted to the University of Texas at Austin. Ai earned her master’s in risk and operations management and doctorate in risk management in Texas before moving to Hawai‘i to begin her academic career.

Attending graduate school in the United States broadened Ai’s perspective and shaped her teaching and research approaches. Her global lens enriches her classes, which combine foundational knowledge with real-world projects. Ai enjoys inviting guest lecturers from the local and national business communities into her classroom to provide students with industry insights. She also provides her students the opportunity to participate in professional events that coincide with the academic semesters. Collaborative learning is important to Ai and she encourages students to

learn from one another as they apply theoretical concepts learned in class to practical scenarios.

“We work on real-world inspired projects, which I help them build toward throughout the semester. So there is definitely a collective learning aspect to all my courses. I have thoroughly enjoyed these, and the students learn from their teammates, teams learn from other teams, and I also learn from all of them.

-Jing Ai

For example, students from a recent class proposed an Enterprise Risk Management framework for companies based on research they conducted. One group used artificial intelligence to help them prioritize the risks based on very specific evaluation criteria they set out. Other groups of students did the same while conducting case studies on the Maui wildfire, Baltimore Bridge collapse and the BP deep water drilling explosion event.

In her classes, Ai bridges complex topics like behavioral insurance and risk management with practical applications through a variety of activities including case studies. She encourages students to explore the vast career opportunities available to them in the risk management industry–spanning from data analytics to marketing and urges them to leverage internships and industry connections.

Having lived the international experience, Ai has a deep understanding of the unique challenges international students face. “My own experience as an international student definitely provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges many students and young researchers face and also afforded me to be more willing and able to help support them in my various capacities,” she reflects.

Ai’s research spans behavioral insurance, healthcare financial management and social equity in risk management programs. A recent project examined racial equity in the National Flood Insurance Program, offering insights into public policy. Her research interests focus on gaining a better understanding of how consumers made financial decisions given rational, behavioral and institutional constraints and what the implications of those decisions are. When she steps into the classroom, her research drives her pedagogy.

“It has always been one of my aspirations to connect my research to the classroom and beyond to the real world to help foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as I think they are so important for the success of our students, whatever career path they choose,” she said.

As director of the Ph.D. program, Ai prioritizes structured support for doctoral students. She collaborates with faculty to ensure they have a smooth transition from undergraduate studies, to graduate and then to academia. She addresses students’ unique challenges through the introductory Ph.D. course and provides personalized guidance.

Ai is also a mother to a young child

and with such a full plate, Ai says that she strives to maximize her time by setting clear priorities for herself to make the most efficient use of her time. She has a personal goal to strive for excellence in all her roles while having fun in the process. Ai describes her career as rewarding and a great choice. With more than a decade under her belt,

she is looking forward to many more years doing what she loves.

“What I enjoy most about Shidler College is our ‘ohana, the people of the Shidler community,” she shares. “I feel really fortunate to have great colleagues who are inspiring, diligent and supportive, and to have a diverse set of students who I learn from every day.”

HALL OF HONOR 2024

Shidler College’s last Hall of Honor Awards was extra special as it officially commemorated the college’s diamond anniversary. Now in its 31st year, this signature gala is an evening that celebrates distinguished business professionals who exemplify excellence in their field while raising funds in support of the college. During the event on Oct. 11, 2024, more than 400 guests packed the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel’s Hawai‘i Ballroom for an unforgettable evening. In addition to honoree videos and an awards presentation, a special video highlighting the college’s milestone was unveiled and captivated the audience with stories of the college’s

history and individuals who’ve witnessed its growth and success throughout the decades.

The 2024 Hall of Honor inductees were Jay Ana, BBA ’98, president, Young Brothers, LLC; Chu Thi Thanh Ha, VEMBA ’06, chairwoman of the Board of Directors, FPT Software Ltd; AJ Halagao, MBA ’04, president, Hawai‘i Leadership Forum; Lauren Nahme, BBA ’90, senior vice president, Maui Recovery Effort, Hawai‘i Community Foundation; and Roy Pfund, BBA ’80, MBA ’87, president and CEO, Roberts Hawaii. These business leaders joined a growing list of inductees who make up the list, which now stands at

more than 115.

Last year’s event raised over $340,000 thanks to the generosity of local businesses and the Shidler ‘ohana. We extend a heartfelt mahalo to every individual and company who contributed. A special thanks to Gina Mangieri, EMBA ’02, Hall of Honor ’14 recipient, who emceed; presenting sponsor Roberts Hawaii; contributing sponsors First Hawaiian Bank, Hawai‘i Leadership Forum and Jay H. Shidler, BBA ’68; and Pacific Business News for its media sponsorship.

“It is an honor to recognize this year’s Hall of Honor inductees, whose achievements exemplify the spirit of excellence that Shidler College has fostered for 75 years,” said Shidler College Dean Vance Roley. “These distinguished alumni have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also contributed significantly to their communities and demonstrated steadfast support for our college. Their success reflects the strength of our alumni network and the impact of a Shidler education.”

The Hall of Honor Awards is the largest fundraiser held in partnership with the Shidler College of Business Alumni Association. The funds raised from this event support the Shidler’s Advancement Fund, furthering its mission to bolster student programs, scholarships, faculty research, alumni outreach and special programs.

shidler.hawaii.edu/hall-of-honor-24

VEMBA PROGRAM BACK IN BUSINESS

The popular Vietnam Executive MBA (VEMBA) program is back in full swing thanks to the leadership of Professor of Information Technology Management, Matson Navigation Company Chair of Global Business and VEMBA Program Director Tung Bui; and Chi Diep, VEMBA program manager. The program was first established in 2001 in Hanoi, the nation’s capital and government center; and then expanded to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s center of commerce, in 2007. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Shidler College has relaunched the program.

VEMBA has a rich history in Vietnam, preparing the country’s business leaders for executive roles across industries. Bui notes a growing interest in the Ho Chi Minh City location, reflecting the city’s role as the country’s economic powerhouse. With a long-standing presence in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the program has honed its approach to serving Vietnam’s dynamic business environments.

Amid global shifts in manufacturing, Vietnam is solidifying its role in the international supply chain, attracting major companies like Apple and Samsung. Positioned at the forefront of this transformation, VEMBA aims to draw professionals from Vietnam and beyond, offering a global learning experience which currently

has a student body from over 20 nationalities.

“Vietnam is quickly becoming a key player in global production, with major companies moving their manufacturing operations to the country,” Bui shared. “As this shift continues, Vietnam’s influence in the international business community will only grow. The relaunch of VEMBA comes at a crucial time, positioning our graduates to capitalize on these global trends.”

The program now offers a flexible hybrid format, blending online and in-person sessions to accommodate busy executives. Ho Chi Minh City hosts the in-person sessions, while students from Hanoi travel there periodically, minimizing travel time and costs. The 21-month program includes eight in-person sessions complemented by online components, creating a balanced and accessible learning environment.

Cohort 32 has 31 students and is the first to follow the hybrid model. Many of its more than 1,000 Shidler alumni in Vietnam share stories of camaraderie and professional support years after graduating. There have been several VEMBA graduates who have gone on to collaborate across the Vietnamese business community. An impressive 90% of new students are referred by program alumni, underscoring the program’s strong reputation.

The VEMBA relaunch is supported

by generous scholarships from alumni and business leaders in Vietnam, addressing the high cost of tuition relative to the local economy. Every gift, large or small, strengthens VEMBA’s mission and helps create lifechanging opportunities for students. These donations collectively drive programs, scholarships and initiatives forward and each one makes a meaningful difference.

With the new hybrid model and Vietnam’s expanding role in the global economy, the future is promising for VEMBA. Its reputation for fostering deep professional connections and providing an elite education has made it an integral part of Vietnam’s business landscape.

shidler.hawaii.edu/vemba-is-back

If you’d like more information on contributing to the VEMBA program, please contact Director of Development Jennifer Lieu at 808-956-3597 or jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org

COLLEGE NEWS

Inspiring stories of gratitude shared at Scholarship Luncheon

Nearly 300 donors and students gathered at The Royal Hawaiian Resort on Nov. 4, 2024, for the college’s annual Scholarship Luncheon. This cherished event celebrates the transformative power of scholarships, which provided more than $1.1 million in financial support to over 300 students last year. Student speakers Sally Citrawireja, a travel industry management sophomore, and Rockwell Adolpho, master’s of business administration candidate, shared heartfelt stories of how their scholarships have alleviated financial burdens and inspired their educational pursuits.

Keynote speaker Manny August, BBA ’98, first vice president and executive residential loan officer at American Savings Bank, reflected on his own college challenges and his commitment to giving back, highlighted by his $35,000 endowed scholarship for accounting students. Thanks to the support of sponsors like Enterprise, the Shidler Alumni Association and Hawaii Business Magazine, the luncheon continues to connect donors and students in meaningful and impactful ways. shidler.hawaii.edu/sl-24

Shidler hosts inaugural financial symposium

Shidler College held its first Innovations in Financial Intermediation Symposium, coinciding with the prestigious Western Finance Association Conference in Honolulu on June 27, 2024. The event brought together 21 leading researchers from institutions like UC Berkeley, Harvard and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for focused discussions on financial intermediation and cryptocurrency. First Hawaiian Bank Distinguished Associate Professor of Banking Jiakai Chen and Finance Department Chair and Distinguished Professor of Finance Qianqiu Liu, organized the event. The college cohosted the symposium with Circle Internet Financial and it featured engaging sessions on blockchain, stablecoins and smart contracts. Keynote speaker Christine Parlour of UC Berkeley highlighted the role of technology in financial intermediation. “We hosted some of the most active researchers in financial intermediation and blockchain,” Liu reflected. “The intimate setting allowed for deep dives into each topic and facilitated meaningful networking.” Dean Vance Roley praised the event for fostering in-depth discussions and collaboration. “The inaugural Innovations in Financial Intermediation Symposium has proven to be a remarkable success,” he said. The symposium has set a high standard, promising an exciting future for the finance program at Shidler College.

shidler.hawaii.edu/ifis-24

Shidler welcomes business leaders for CUIBE

Shidler College sponsored the Consortium for Undergraduate International Business Education’s (CUIBE) 2024 Fall Governance Meeting in October 2024. The multi-day event brought together participants from leading business schools across the world to explore pressing topics in global education amid shifting geopolitical landscapes. Shidler College Distinguished Professor Kiyohiko Ito, vice president of CUIBE, was the program chair; and professor Sonia Ghumman and emerita professor Elaine Bailey cohosted the event. In order to improve international education, a variety of CUIBE’s governance related issues, such as marketing and communications, strategic partnership and CUIBE case competitions were discussed.

SPECIAL 75TH VIDEO

In case you missed our special 75th anniversary video, visit the URL below to watch. shidler.hawaii.edu/75

RICK ’ S CORNER

Rick Varley is the director of Shidler College’s Internships and Career Development Office. In this column, Varley selects an outstanding former student to share their internship experience. During the spring, summer and fall 2024 semesters, Varley placed 436 Shidler students in internships.

In this feature, Stefani Sakamoto, BBA ’23, recalls her journey of completing eight internships during her time at Shidler College. One of the internships, which she completed twice, was at Servco Pacific Inc., which led to her securing her first full-time position after graduation. Sakamoto has now been with the company for two years and serves as a business process manager.

From Uncertainty to Opportunity: The Power of Mentorship

The college journey is a thrilling yet intimidating experience, especially when faced with the pressure of figuring out exactly what you want to do with your life. Like many students, I was excited but also unsure of where I was headed. Navigating the maze of academics, internship and career choices seemed overwhelming and deciding what path to take felt like a daunting challenge. However, the uncertainty I felt became a valuable part of my journey, as it opened the door to countless opportunities for growth and exploration.

One of the people who helped me through this journey of discovery was Rick Varley. Rick was instrumental in helping me find internships that aligned with my interests while also encouraging me to explore different industries. His support and guidance allowed me to intern at various companies. With Rick’s support, I completed eight internships during my time at Shidler: Territorial Savings

Bank, Punahou School, New York Life, Spire Hawai‘i LLP, Jordan & Cara Odo Scholarship Foundation, GROW (Singapore) and Servco Pacific Inc. (twice).

My diverse internships throughout college helped me secure two internships at Servco, and ultimately paved the way to my current role as a business process manager at Servco. While I started with limited knowledge of the automotive industry, I eagerly explored how Servco provides solutions to serve the mobility needs of customers and the local community. Although understanding automotive operations involved a steep learning curve, my previous internship experience enabled me to identify key opportunities for success and provide innovative solutions. I am grateful I received an offer to join Servco following my second internship with the company and found a career I am excited to pursue.

Embracing uncertainty, being open to trying new things, and challenging myself led to unexpected discoveries. Whether it was assisting with taxes, leading an entrepreneurial program, analyzing legal cases, or redesigning processes, these adventures led me to a company and job I love. Although the path to a future career may seem unclear, seizing every opportunity, even the daunting ones, and seeking guidance from mentors like Rick provides invaluable experiences.

Shidler shines in national and international rankings

Shidler College was once again ranked among the top business schools in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best College rankings. The college was ranked 20th on the “Best Undergraduate International Business Programs” list. The TIM School also received an impressive ranking, placing 15th in the U.S. and 46th globally for Hospitality & Leisure Management (QS World Rankings, 2024).

shidler.hawaii.edu/rankings

1 | SGLS IN ACTION

The Shidler Global Leaders (SGLs) had a busy and impactful semester, dedicating their time and energy to a variety of volunteer initiatives that made a tangible difference in the community. Over the course of the semester, the SGLs participated in six different volunteer events, fulfilling their program requirement of completing at least 15 hours of community service each semester. Highlights of their efforts included signwaving to encourage food donations, collecting canned goods, and packing food bags for the Hawaii Foodbank, supporting efforts to address food insecurity in the local community. At Children and Youth

Day, they contributed to a day of fun by distributing goodie bags to prize winners They also volunteered with Ronald McDonald House Charities, assisting with room clean-ups to help provide families in need with a clean and welcoming environment during challenging times.

2 | ESD HONORS STUDENTS, LEADERS

The Eta Sigma Delta International Honor Society held its 2024 induction ceremony on Nov. 4, 2024, at the Prince Waikiki Hotel. The event brought together 40 TIM students, faculty, staff and industry leaders to celebrate the 2024 honorees. Nine students were inducted, along with three honorary members including alumna

Janice Yasunaga, BBA ’86, director of passenger sales at Japan Airlines, and TIM Advisory Council member Angela Nolan, vice president at Highgate Hospitality. Mahalo to the Prince Waikiki Hotel and UH Student Activity and Program Fee Board for cosponsoring this special event.

3 | DSP DOMINATES

The IBC hosted its annual Super Clubs Day on Nov. 16, 2024, at Kapi‘olani Regional Park, bringing together club members for a day of spirited competition and camaraderie. Participants prepped for several weeks for the highly anticipated event by perfecting their choreographed dance routines, running plays for flag football and sharpening their volleyball

skills. Congratulations to Delta Sigma Pi for claiming first place overall, with honorable mentions to the Business Executive Society of Tomorrow for placing second and the International Business Organization for securing third place.

4 | UNITE THE INDUSTRY, IGNITE THE SPIRIT

Over the course of the fall 2024 semester, students in the TIM School’s Events Planning and Marketing class took on the task of planning N¯a Kukui

Netlinks on Dec. 4, 2024, an event focused on connecting students with industry professionals for an evening of mentorship. Inspired by the 2024

STUDENT SNAPSHOTS

Olympics, the theme for the night was “Unite the Industry, Ignite the Spirit.” The event featured a ceremonial lighting of the torch in the form of a lip sync video of Queen’s “We Are the Champions” to kick off the evening and emcees acting as sports broadcasters engaging with the audience with event commentary. Attendees also got to hear from a series of speakers who spoke about training, competing and winning in the industry.

5 | RESORTS AND ROASTERS

Last semester, students in the TIM School’s Hotel/Resort Facilities and Design and Strategic Management Travel/

Hospitality Industry courses had a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience through exclusive company tours. Bonnie Bise, BBA ’93, public relations manager at Halekulani Hotel, gave students in the Hotel/Resort Facilities and Design class a tour that provided them with valuable insights into the operations of the five-star resort. Strategic Management Travel/Hotel Industry class students traveled to Kailua for a tour of Tradition Coffee Roasters. They received an in-depth look at how the coffee supply chain works from farm to cup. These hands-on experiences gave students a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world industry practices.

1 | PACE EARNS GLOBAL RECOGNITION FOR OUTSTANDING STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

The Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) was recognized for excellence at the 2024 Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers conference in Boston. PACE was honored with the organization’s “Outstanding Student Engagement & Leadership” award for schools with more than 7,500 students. “This recognition validates our innovative approach to entrepreneurship education,” said PACE Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama. “The Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center has expanded opportunities for students to lead and innovate.”

In 2023–2024, PACE supported more than 825 students, 150 new ideas, and 150 activities and distributed over $250,000 in awards and scholarships. With more than 15 free programs, PACE empowers students across UH campuses to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills.

2 | INNOVATE 808

On Oct. 26 and Nov. 2, 2024, PACE hosted the inaugural Innovate 808 competition, bringing together 35 students from diverse majors to solve a real-world business challenge for Hawaiian Chip Company. Founder Jimmy Chan tasked participants with developing innovative ideas to grow the business in its 25th anniversary year. Students engaged

directly with the brand and toured the factory, sampled products and pitched creative solutions. Winning concepts included new chip flavors, revamped packaging designs, and 3D retail store visualizations. “It’s inspiring to see such diverse perspectives come together to tackle challenges and create innovative solutions,” Jeff Hui, PACE entrepreneurin-residence, said. pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/innovate-808

3 | PACE HOSTS TECHFOCUSED ACTIVITIES

PACE hosted dynamic techfocused events at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center as part of the 2024 Hawai‘i Tech Days of Fall and inaugural Honolulu Tech Week. These events were designed to inspire students, foster connections with industry professionals, and boost innovation in Hawai‘i’s tech and cybersecurity sectors. On Sept.18, 2024, a grand opening of the UH Cybersecurity Clinic was held. The kickoff featured an early version debut of a social network loyalty app developed in collaboration with UH student interns. On Sept. 20, 2024, the Calvin Shindo Student Venture Fund team hosted a half day event that started with a keynote by serial entrepreneur Dustin Shindo, followed by a panel of promising student tech founders, and ended with a pitch simulation in partnership with the Hawaii Angels. On Sept. 21, 2024, a community hackathon was held, and two PACE Leaders and two PACE alumni took home four prizes. On Sept. 25, 2024, the popular Talk Story with Tech Pros event returned, where students interacted with more than 40 software engineers, tech employees, product managers

and others from local firms and global industry leaders.

4 | FOSTERING

LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION AT FBCH RETREAT

In September 2024, the Family Business Center of Hawai‘i hosted its 17th annual retreat, where more than 80 participants came together from across the state for two days of engaging activities, insightful discussions and personal reflections. Led by Terri Bennink of Classic Leadership Consulting, with support from Donnel Nunes of the Aspen Family Business Group, the retreat focused on critical themes like team dynamics, decision-making, leadership styles, the Johari Window model and communication challenges. Leadership was explored as the ability to facilitate positive change, while teamwork was defined through the lens of collaborative decisionmaking. Hands-on exercises, such as the “Lunar Landing” activity and a “Fishbowl” challenge highlighted factors contributing to effective team dynamics and decision making, providing valuable insights into leadership behaviors. As participants learned about the leadership style matrix, they gained a deeper understanding of their own leadership tendencies and those of others. Exploring the Johari Window helped them understand how feedback and self-disclosure build trust and expand collaboration. A communication model reinforced the importance of clear, effective dialogue in fostering team growth and cohesion. The retreat emphasized that strong leadership

and team collaboration require self-awareness, trust and open communication. Participants left better equipped to build trust, enhance performance and drive positive change by involving teams in decision-making and aligning leadership approaches.

fbcofhawaii.org

5 | ENTREPRENEURSHIP LIVE

PACE partnered with UH M¯anoa’s Fashion Design & Merchandising program at the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience last fall to introduce students to the possibilities of fashion entrepreneurship. This three-part Entrepreneurship Live series connected four local fashion designers with students. Rocket Ahuna, Kini Zamora, Matt Bruening and Rumi Murakami shared their journeys, challenges and insights, captivating an audience of over 150 attendees.

PACE hosted three other Entrepreneurship Live events, including a session with Zach and Courtney Villanueva, BBA ’12, founders of Sage Creamery; a tech panel cohosted with

PACE

the Engineers’ Council of the University of Hawai‘i featuring Eric Tam, cofounder of Ebvia and business development at Grant Engine; Eddie Ontai, president of DataHouse; and Andrew Lau, software engineer at Ceda. Josh Reppun, CEO of What School Could Be, also spoke. These events, sponsored by Tony Bernheim in honor of Saul Reinfeld, Catherine Lynham and Alan Wong, continue to inspire and empower students to explore diverse entrepreneurial paths. pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/live

6 | LEVEL UP WORKSHOP X BAP COLLAB

Lisa Miller, BBA ’88, certified public accountant and certified franchise executive, led over 50 students in a Level Up workshop about accounting and financial modeling with an entrepreneurial perspective on Oct. 2, 2024. Her interactive workshop engaged the participants in fun

group exercises based on a theoretical business. Miller’s goal was to have students understand that accounting is a powerful tool that business owners should use to drive growth; and that an entrepreneurial mindset is important to unlock solutions and new strategies driven by numbers.

Beta Alpha Psi, an honor society Miller is a proud member of, cohosted the workshop. Later in the fall semester, several other Level Up workshops were hosted on a variety of topics, including insights from interns in the esports industry, strategies for incorporating culture into a brand and tips for perfecting resumes. These sessions offered students a variety of opportunities to develop practical skills and explore emerging fields. pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/levelup

PROFESSIONAL-IN-RESIDENCE

Last fall, PACE added new professionals-in-residence to its roster. The lineup of professionals included Pascual Castano, entrepreneur and business advisor for the Hawai‘i Small Business Development Center; Donald Fukumoto, retired serial entrepreneur; and Susan Yamada, entrepreneur, investor and PACE board of directors chair. Professionalsin-residence volunteer their time and knowledge to provide startup guidance to UH students and faculty. During their visits to campus, each professional takes up to four 30 to 45-minute appointments at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center. pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/pir

New and Promoted

Megan Medeiros joins the Office of Student Academic Services as a student support specialist. Medeiros most recently worked at UH Maui College as a transcript evaluator and she has worked at a variety of UH campuses over the past 12 years.

Jenna O’Neill joins the college’s fiscal office from UH M –anoa’s School of Life Sciences, where she previously served as an operations coordinator. Prior to that, she was an administrative and fiscal support specialist for the Department of Theatre & Dance for four years.

Audrey Shintani joins the fiscal office as administrative officer, where she primarily focuses on human resources. Shintani joins the college with more than 30 years of experience with UH M –a noa.

Research and Publications

Adiyukh Berbekova, assistant professor of TIM, published “Understanding and Employing Formative Constructs: Conceptualization, Operationalization, and Threats of Misspecification” with F. Kock, A. Assaf and A. Josiassen in Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research, 2024.

Additionally, Berbekova and Ingrid Lim, professor of TIM, coauthored “Exploring the Connection Between Mental Health and Well-Being for Faculty in Hospitality and Tourism Education: A Thematic

FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES

Analysis” in Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education, 2024.

Thomas Pearson, professor of accounting, coauthored the book “Accounting and Auditing Research: Tools and Strategies, 11th Edition” with T. Weirich and N. Churyk. The new edition prepares students and early-stage practitioners to use wellestablished research solutions in a broad range of practical applications, from financial accounting and tax planning, to investigating fraud and auditing various business problems.

Jian Zhou, professor of accounting and Lloyd Fujie/Deloitte Foundation Distinguished Professor, authored “Do Auditors Care about Firm-Level Political Risk?” with C. Ma, T. Xu and S. Fan in the Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, 2024. He also coauthored “COVID-19 Pandemic and Audit Quality” with B. Lin, L. Wu, and Y. Zhang in the British Accounting Review (online), 2024.

A Heartfelt Mahalo to Jay H. and Wallette

Shidler

The Shidler College of Business ‘ohana extends its deepest gratitude to Jay H. Shidler, BBA ’68, and his wife, Wallette, for graciously opening their stunning residence to host the 2024 holiday celebration. Their warm hospitality and generosity created an unforgettable evening of connection, laughter and holiday cheer. We are truly fortunate to have such incredible supporters who embody the spirit of giving and aloha. Mahalo nui loa for making the season even brighter for the Shidler College faculty and staff.

FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES

Welcome to the Shidler ‘Ohana

Kayden Loftis was born on Aug. 28, 2024 to graphic designer Kiana Loftis and Lloyd Loftis. Kayden Loftis loves to babble, roll over and spend time with his loving big sister, Luna Loftis.

Alina Galin Tran was born on July 9, 2024 to director of marketing Kirstin Tran, MBA ’20 and Richard Tran, BBA ’11, MBA ’19 Alina Tran loves to roll around on the couch, babble and enjoys her favorite book, “Goodnight Moon.”

FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES

In the News

Hua Chen, professor of finance and risk management, was cited on Wallethub. com, in the article “Liability vs. Full Coverage Car Insurance: Key Differences” (9/11/2024).

Xiodan Mao-Clark, assistant professor of TIM, was cited on Wallethub.com, in the article “Cheapest Car Insurance in Hawaii” (10/8/2024). She was also quoted by WalletHub on the usage of airline credit cards.

Recognition

Marie Kumabe, instructor and faculty director of the Master’s in Human Resource Management Program, won the HR Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Society for Human Resource Management, Hawaii Chapter. In addition to her role at Shidler, she serves as principal at Kumabe HR, and brings more than 20 years of dedication to her field.

In Memoriam

Late Professor Emeritus of Management David Bangert passed away in July 2024. He had an illustrious career and academic journey that spanned several decades. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the United States Military Academy, his master’s in business administration from Shidler College; and his master’s and doctorate degrees from Harvard University. Bangert served as principal project manager at Saudi Arabian Parsons Limited, Deleuw Cather/Parsons and DCI/TAMS. He also served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1970, rising from second lieutenant to captain. Outside of the classroom, he led a life full of excitement and activity. He completed ranger and

airborne training after the military academy and in his forties, he spent 22 days hiking Annapurna Massif in Nepal, the world’s 10th highest mountain.

Popular among students, Bangert received many accolades, including MBA Management Professor of the Year, the Board of Regents’ Teaching Excellence Medal, Shidler College’s Kaizen Service Award and the Teaching Excellence Award.

Late Emeritus Professor James Marsh, a distinguished academic and an expert in international business economics, passed away in August 2024. He earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Chicago. Marsh spent decades shaping the minds of students and contributing to the global discourse on Pacific/Asian international business and environmental issues.

His research focused on critical areas such as the marine environment, international economics and natural resources. Marsh held prestigious fellowships and served as a United States team member at the 1995 United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization Conference on the Sustainable Contribution of Fisheries to Food Security.

Marsh received numerous accolades, including Excellence in Teaching and Professor of the Year and Distinguished Service Awards. His dedication to teaching extended to courses in international economics, managerial finance and international finance, as well as his leadership in the UH Study Abroad program in Berlin, Germany. He also served as chair of the Finance Department.

Cincinnati. During his tenure, Seo served as department chairperson for three terms, director of the Pacific International Management Studies, and a senior fellow at the East-West Center. Most notably, he founded Shidler’s prominent Asian Field Study Program in 1986 and served as director for 25 years.

Seo was an accomplished scholar, advisor and author, with six books and over 50 articles and monographs published in esteemed journals. Additionally, he served as a Fulbright Scholar in Korea and advised prominent organizations, including Bank of America, Boeing and POSCO.

Late Emeritus Professor K.K. Seo passed away in July 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy at Shidler College. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina, master’s degree from Xavier University and doctorate degree from the University of

DONOR NEWS

3D Wealth & Financial Literacy Program empowers students and community

Shidler College is launching a new program this coming semester, called the 3D Wealth & Financial Literacy Program, thanks to the generosity of a gift of $750,000 from 3D Wealth Advisors, Inc. The program is designed to equip students and the broader community with essential financial knowledge and tools. Available to students across all ten campuses, it teaches skills necessary to navigate complex financial landscapes, avoid common pitfalls and

Scholarship honors late Shidler College professor K.K. Seo

To honor the legacy of Shidler College’s late emeritus professor K.K. Seo, the Seo, McQuiston, and Hong families donated $50,000 in 2024 to launch the Endowed Emeritus Professor K.K. Seo Asian Field Study Scholarship Fund. This scholarship ensures future students can participate in the Asian Field Study (AFS) program; a flagship initiative Seo founded in 1986.

Seo, a visionary educator, dedicated his career to providing students with immersive, real-world business experiences in Asia. Under his leadership, the AFS program grew into a dynamic global business field study, offering students access to over 400 enterprises, including multinational corporations, NGOs, and family-owned businesses. More than 800 alumni have benefited from this transformative experience, visiting major countries across Asia.

“Our dad’s life was about education and teaching, which was complemented by his dedication and unwavering commitment to his students,” said Margaret Seo, K.K. Seo’s daughter. “It was his

Entrepreneurship

Live Series receives

$50,000 gift

The Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship’s (PACE) Entrepreneurship Live series received a generous $50,000 gift from Tony Bernheim, who was inspired by the philanthropy of his friend, Jay H. Shidler, BBA ’68. This sponsorship honors his grandfather, Saul Reinfeld, childhood teacher Catherine Lynham and close friend Alan Wong, all individuals who inspired Berheim’s entrepreneurial journey. Through his continued support, he aims to celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and the mentors who shaped his path, fostering inspiration and learning for the next generation of leaders.

The funds will be allocated toward marketing and promoting the event, food and beverage, as well as providing support for students and staff.

"We are deeply grateful to Tony Bernheim for his generous

make informed decisions.

“We are grateful to 3D Wealth Advisors, Inc. for its generous support in launching this financial literacy program,” Shidler College Dean Vance Roley said. “This initiative reflects the college’s commitment to provide students with the knowledge and tools needed to make sound financial decisions. By empowering individuals with these essential skills, we are fostering economic growth and sustainability across Hawai‘i while preparing students for lifelong personal and professional success.”

wish that every student, regardless of their financial background, be able to participate, learn and enhance their knowledge and business experience through the AFS program. It was important for our family to find a way to honor our dad and to continue his legacy. This fund will not only honor his founding of the successful AFS Program but ensure that his passion for education lives on in perpetuity.”

Current AFS director Ben Bystrom emphasized the program’s reliance on donor support, noting a record $94,500 in scholarships awarded in 2023. He called on AFS alumni and corporate partners to continue building on Seo’s legacy.

shidler.hawaii.edu/kk-seo

If you’re interested in donating to the Endowed Emeritus Professor K.K. Seo Asian Field Study Scholarship Fund, please contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development, at jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org or (808) 956-3597.

support of the Entrepreneurship Live series,” PACE Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama, said. “This $50,000 gift honors the incredible mentors who inspired his journey while ensuring that our students and aspiring entrepreneurs have access to invaluable insights from accomplished business leaders.”

Three renovated spaces enrich student experience at Shidler College

The college celebrated the revitalization of three key spaces in 2024–the Eddie and Elaine Flores, Jr. Courtyard, the Carolyn L. Ching Auditorium and the Sunset Reference Center (SRC) at the School of Travel Industry Management (TIM School). These renovations were made possible by generous alumni and supporters.

The Eddie and Elaine Flores, Jr. Courtyard received 32 new tables with umbrellas, donated by Jay H. Shidler, BBA ’68. Eddie Flores, BBA ’70, is the chairman of L&L Hawaiian Barbecue and he and his wife Elaine have been committed supporters of the college, establishing scholarships and a lecture series to advance education. The courtyard was renamed in honor of the couple’s long-standing contributions and today serves as a vibrant hub for events, including commencement ceremonies, career fairs and student activities.

The Carolyn L. Ching Auditorium was renovated through a $1 million gift from late Shidler College alumna Carolyn Ching, BBA ’72, and showcases a modern design with upgraded seating, acoustics and sustainable finishes. Ching was an accomplished certified public accountant and credited Shidler for her career success and established an endowed scholarship to support future business students.

At the TIM School, the SRC now features modular furnishings for group work, a multiscreen teleconferencing system and a refreshed patio with wood rocking chairs. The upgrades, supported by the late Ambassador Bill Lane and former Dean Chuck Gee, align with Gee’s vision of innovative, student-friendly spaces.

shidler.hawaii.edu/flores-courtyard-sunset-reference shidler.hawaii.edu/ching-auditorium

“These spaces are more than renovations; they are investments in our students’ success. We are deeply grateful to our donors for transforming these areas into modern, collaborative environments that inspire learning and community.
-Vance Roley

Giving is at the heart of Shidler College

The 2023-2024 donor recognition listing can be found on our website at shidler.hawaii.edu/donorroll. We extend a sincere mahalo to all the alumni, corporations, foundations and friends of the college who have made a gift to the Shidler College during the past year.

A leap of faith across the Pacific Ocean leads to real estate career alumnus loves

Since graduating from Shidler College, Martin Nguyen, BBA ’15, has been on an exciting journey of bold risks and transformative experiences. The young professional has already enjoyed an illustrious career full of big changes, starting when he boarded a one-way flight to Los Angeles the same week he graduated. He didn’t have a job lined up but he had the knowledge and persistence he gained while in college and as a student in the college’s inaugural Direct Admit Program.

After arriving in the continental United States, Nguyen leaned into sage advice from his mentor Eugene Page. He suggested Nguyen wait in the lobby of the commercial real estate startup to get face time, after seeing its young CEO speak at an event. As someone who considers himself shy, this was no easy task, so he called the company and introduced himself as a recent graduate. About a month after the initial connection was made, RealtyMogul–which would become the largest commercial real estate crowdfunding company in the country–hired him as an investment analyst.

At RealtyMogul, Nguyen learned various aspects of the industry and was captivated by its mission of making commercial real estate accessible to everyday people through crowdfunding. Working under a chief investment officer who previously ran JPMorganChase’s Commercial MortgageBacked Securities division, he underwrote and analyzed over $2.5 billion worth of commercial real estate across the country, ranging from apartment complexes, office buildings and retail centers to specialized assets such as hotels, student housing and self-storage.

During the initial time he spent in Los Angeles, Nguyen befriended several University of Southern California (USC)

alumni. As an “adopted Trojan,” he realized he wanted to pursue his graduate education in USC’s prestigious and competitive Master of Real Estate Development program. Not expecting to get accepted on his first application, Nguyen was amazed when he received his acceptance letter.

While back to being a full-time student at USC, he built a reputation as an effective financial analyst and built a consulting practice, which he juggled while completing rigorous coursework. One afternoon over lunch with Page, he shared some of the exciting opportunities that were crossing his desk. Page suggested they tackle some of the projects together. Once working together, the pair realized they had complementary skillsets. They decided to merge their

“I truly feel like I have the best job in the world. Friends sometimes ask me what I want to be doing in three, five, or ten years. My response is, if allowed the privilege, I would love to continue doing what I am currently doing for the rest of my life. - Martin Nguyen

companies and formed Centre Urban, which Nguyen describes as a vertically integrated commercial real estate investment platform focused on futureoriented and impactful properties in core urban areas. Since then, Centre Urban has invested, developed and advised on commercial real estate projects in California, the Midwest, and in 2024, Hawai‘i.

The company’s latest project is close to Nguyen’s heart as it represents his journey coming full circle. “I truly hope that Centre Urban will play a part, no matter how large or small, in making a positive impact on Hawai‘i’s own housing crisis,” he said.

Just a decade since his career commenced, Nguyen has an extensive list of board appointments and accolades. He is especially proud to be involved with the Center for Tomorrow’s Leaders, an organization that he was a part of in high school and college. He now serves on the advisory board and says that if just one person is helped through his contribution, it’s well worth it. His advice to students is to become involved in the community and to give back no matter how busy you are, a sentiment he embodies.

Jane-of-all-trades Hisae Uki a bona fide noodle aficionado

Hisae Uki, MBA ’12, has worn multiple hats at Sun Noodle, where craft noodles are produced for restaurants and retail in Honolulu, New Jersey, California and The Netherlands. Since beginning her journey at the family business, founded by her father, Hidehito, and mother, Keiko, she’s held management roles in human resources, food safety, quality assurance, marketing and operations. It’s safe to say Uki’s days are never boring.

“No two days are the same,” she says. “My day typically starts around 5 a.m. and communication is crucial, especially when collaborating with teams in different states. I handle a mix of tasks, from administrative duties to project-based responsibilities, making sure we’re on track or addressing delays.”

Alongside her brother, Kenshiro, Uki strives to carry on her family’s legacy through Sun Noodle’s steadfast values of dedication to craftsmanship, ‘ohana with accountability, knock on every door, be curious, be ready; and be the sun. Since returning home to Oahu in 2023 after moving to the continental United States in 2016 to oversee the California facility, she spends more time with her parents and seeks to balance family time with work commitments.

“Sun Noodle is truly a family business,” Uki explains. “Many of our employees started with my parents 25 years ago, which is beautiful and gratifying. It reflects the care and respect my parents have shown, and the loyalty they’ve earned from these individuals who helped build the company. As a second-generation leader, my brother and I aim to carry forward that same energy and culture as we continue to grow the business.”

Uki says her time at Shidler College connected her with a group of like-minded classmates, who’ve become a valuable network of peers where she seeks advice, gains new perspectives and can talk through challenges. She reflects that these friendships have played a significant role in shaping her professional trajectory.

During the pandemic, Uki was faced with both her most challenging days and ultimately the ones that would become her proudest. She feared losing the business during 2020 and says that they feel fortunate to have survived such a heartbreaking time. The team needed to pivot since 80% of the business was in food service, an industry that had come to a halt. She credits authenticity, openness and honesty in communication with customers and employees as the key attributes that helped them through.

When she was in college, Uki and her brother shared inspirational cards with one another. One he sent to her when she had just moved to California now sits in a frame next to her bed. The Eleanor Roosevelt quote reads, “Do one thing every day that scares you.” Along those lines, her advice to current students is that temporary discomfort can lead to unexpected growth.

“I’ve learned that if something scares you or makes you nervous, that’s often a sign that it’s worth pursuing,” she said. “It could be the opportunity for growth you didn’t expect.

- Hisae Uki

Sustainability meets luxury: Alumna leading the charge for regenerative tourism

Taylor Ledgerwood, BS ’23, is a driving force behind regenerative tourism in Hawai‘i through her role as manager of the Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture and the Arts (KISCA). Her work seamlessly integrates what regenerative aims to do–drawing on environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and community engagement to create experiences for guests and residents alike.

Ledgerwood focuses on preserving and celebrating the state’s unique cultural and natural heritage. She does this through creating platforms–through events and guest activities–that showcase and celebrate Hawaiian cultural practitioners, non-profit partners, local and Native artists and restoration projects in the area. Through partnering with stakeholders, organizing programs that connect guests and community members and developing initiatives that protect the land and the ocean, kuleana (responsibility) is always top of mind.

Less than a year after she started with the KISCA program, Ledgerwood was promoted. Her first role centered around sustainability projects and environmental education. She also taught coral education pop-ups, microplastic keiki art classes and the Sunset Seminar speaker series. Transitioning to her current role as manager allowed her to shape KISCA’s direction more strategically, expanding its reach and impact.

Under her leadership, KISCA has introduced transformative programs such as tree-planting initiatives in collaboration with Protect and Preserve, where guests can sponsor or plant trees themselves. These activities offer a hands-on way for visitors to connect with Hawai‘i’s environment while giving back to the land. Additionally, partnerships with

organizations like M –a lama Maunalua have allowed KISCA to play a vital role in the Restore with Resilience Project, which focuses on ecosystem restoration from mountain to sea.

One of her proudest accomplishments has been bridging the gap between cultural authenticity and luxury hospitality. Balancing guest expectations with meaningful cultural and environmental experiences remains a cornerstone of her efforts. Ledgerwood feels excited and inspired about where sustainable tourism is headed as she continues her career.

“I see sustainability and cultural initiatives continuing to evolve and becoming even more essential in Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry,” she said. “What’s interesting, in my opinion, is that every property will likely develop its own unique ‘personality type’ when it comes to regenerative tourism.”

Beyond her work at KISCA, Ledgerwood has shared her knowledge through returning to her alma mater to guest lecture and has given presentations at conferences on regenerative tourism. These opportunities have allowed her to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders and advocate for innovative, sustainable practices within the industry.

When asked for advice to current Shidler students, she emphasizes the importance of persistence and passion.

“Stay committed to what drives you, even if the path isn’t clear yet.”
- Taylor Ledgerwood

“When I started, sustainable tourism wasn’t a widely recognized field, but

I found ways to integrate my interests into my studies and career. Don’t be afraid to carve your own path—the opportunities will come.”

As she continues to lead KISCA, Ledgerwood envisions a rich future for Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry, one that prioritizes meaningful connections with the environment, culture and community.

“Regenerative tourism is about more than minimizing harm; it’s about actively improving the places we love,” she said.

“I’m proud to be part of that journey and excited to see how we can continue to make an impact together.”

Scaling new heights while shaping the future of digital video

For alumna Qynn Nguyen, VEMBA ’12, the journey from earning her master’s in business administration to now leading strategic initiatives at YouTube has been a story of adaptability, innovation and resilience. As manager of Video on Demand for YouTube TV, Primetime Channels, FAST and NFL Sunday Ticket, Nguyen’s career showcases how core business skills and a passion for learning can propel success in dynamic industries. Nguyen says that obtaining her graduate degree with Shidler’s Vietnam Executive MBA program was helpful in advancing her career. After she graduated in 2012, she took her first steps into the tech world by joining Google in Silicon Valley. She then moved to Singapore and then back to California. She began by leading a team of account managers for small and medium business AdWords advertisers. Two years into her time at Google, she transitioned to the Google Play Movies & TV team. The division was eventually rebranded to Google TV, to include 3rd party content services and providers like Amazon Prime, Netflix and Hulu. “We successfully transitioned from a mobile first to a living room centric viewing experience as a product and I am very proud of these achievements,” she said.

Nguyen spent a total of 10 years at Google and during her time, she spearheaded the global expansion of transactional video services, growing the reach from 16 to an impressive 117 territories, all while the team was reduced from 30 to four. In 2023, Nguyen took on a new challenge at YouTube, leading operations for subscription and ad-supported video services across

YouTube, YouTube TV and NFL Sunday Ticket. She says that joining YouTube has allowed her to bring her expertise in digital video distribution to tackle operational and technical challenges within the ecosystem. “I am looking forward to growing our video on demand products across YouTube and leveraging the inbuilt reach of our user base,” she shared.

Nguyen’s career is built on adaptability and curiosity. Entering both the digital advertising and video distribution industries required her to immerse herself in new domains, which requires her to think critically and a willingness to deeply understand the problems. Since joining YouTube and taking on a new role, she’s leaned on the core business and operational skills acquired throughout her career, many of which were honed during her time at Shidler College.

Despite the demanding pace of her work, Nguyen finds fulfillment in YouTube’s culture.

Nguyen defines success as a balance between personal and professional fulfillment. On the professional side, she feels success is making an impact within her company and team, as well as across the industry. She says the opportunity to help solve industry wide problems has been greatly rewarding. In her life, she defines success as keeping herself and her family healthy and happy.

Reflecting on her journey from Shidler to YouTube, Nguyen holds that time of her life and friendships developed close to her heart. “I always look back at my time in business school very fondly and admire the successes of my fellow classmates and alumni,” she said. “We still stay in contact and visit each other across the globe, including our professors.”

I love working with people who want to continually learn, have a really high work ethic, are ambitious and committed to keeping the bar high. We focus on mission first across our many products that touch billions of users.”
-Qynn Nguyen

ALUMNI SNAPSHOTS

1 | FIRST RECENT ALUMNI SWEAT & SIP

The college kicked off its Recent Alumni Event Series with the inaugural Sweat and Sip event on Sept. 7, 2024. Over 20 recent alums joined in for a one hour workout at Orangetheory Fitness where their strength and endurance were tested, followed by a pau hana at Village Bottle Shop & Tasting Room. A few of them even scored some exclusive Shidler 75th anniversary swag. The Recent Alumni Event Series is designed for those who graduated in the last 10 years, offering a fun way to stay connected with classmates and keep ties to the college strong.

2 | FLAVORS AND FRIENDSHIP

Dine Around, an annual crowd favorite event, returned on Aug. 14, 2024. Each year, the Shidler Alumni Association hosts approximately 60 people for an evening of networking and socializing while guests enjoy delicious food and drinks. Attendees were separated into groups and rotated between three featured restaurants–Eating House 1849, Stripsteak and Kuhio Avenue Food Hall. At each restaurant, groups had the chance to mingle with one another and dine on signature dishes and beverages.

3 | CALIFORNIA CONNECTIONS

A big mahalo to everyone who joined the Shidler College team in California for two incredible events—the Northern California Alumni and Friends Mixer on Sept. 19, 2024 at the AC Hotel San Francisco Airport/Oyster Point Waterfront, and the Newport Bay Yacht Cruise on Sept. 22, 2024. The gatherings welcomed alumni, donors and friends to make connections within their networks, hear updates from the college and celebrate its 75th anniversary. A special thank you to Bill Johnson, BBA ’65, and Sue Johnson, for once again graciously hosting the Newport Bay cruise aboard the Dulcinea.

We want to showcase you on #FeatureFriday!

4 | DECADE OF DEDICATION

Each year, the Shidler Alumni Association hosts a volunteer event with Hawaii Food Bank that brings together the alumni board with current students. On Oct. 5, 2024, over 30 volunteers spent their Saturday morning in service of the Food 4 Keiki program. This critical food resource program provides after-school snacks for young students, as well as additional family food bags to take home. Approximately 7,000 bags of food were packed for school pantry programs across Oahu and Kauai.

We love to brag about the amazing achievements of Shidler College alumni on our social media channels, @ShidlerAlumni and @TIMAlumniAssociation. If you’d like to share news about a recent job appointment, promotion, professional recognition or celebratory moment, please get in touch and let us know so we can spotlight the great news on a future #FeatureFriday.

To share alumni announcements, please email Christine Quach at christine.quach@uhfoundation.org

5 | CANOEING, CULTURE AND BEACH CLEANUPS

On Oct. 19, 2024, the TIM Alumni Association, alongside alumni, faculty and students, came together to clean up Mauliola (Sand Island), making a positive impact on the community and environment. Participants received an enriching lesson on marine life and the ‘aina, courtesy of Mauliola Ke‘ehi, a non-profit dedicated to Hawaiian culturebased education. As an added bonus, attendees also received canoeing lessons from New Hope Canoe Club. Special thanks to TIM alumnus Mike Ohashi, BBA ’79, and his wife, Christine, for providing bentos to attendees.

6 | MAUI ALUMNI & FRIENDS MIXER

For the first time since 2018, Shidler College hosted a Maui alumni and friends mixer on June 27, 2024, bringing together over 50 at Fuego Argentinean Steakhouse. The event provided a great opportunity to reconnect, network and strengthen the bonds within the college’s Maui network. Several alumni and friends flew in from Oahu to join the festivities, making the event more special and showcasing the strong connections and support within the Shidler community.

CLASS NOTES

Newlywed News

We are thrilled to celebrate three couples who’ve recently tied the knot. Congratulations on this new chapter in your lives.

Brittany Bonilla, BBA ’17, and Jared Tangonan were married on Oct. 22, 2024 in Hauula, HI.

Tari Manin, BBA ’19, and Cole Suyemoto, BBA ’19, were married on Sept. 21, 2024 at 3660 on the Rise.

Michelle Quach, BBA ’16, and Jarrick Hayashi got married on Sept. 21, 2024 at Ka‘ala Vista.

Congratulations

Darin Tann, BBA ’11, and Tetsuji Yamazaki, MS ’96, were named to Pacific Business News’ 2024 Pineapple Awards, which honors individuals who lead the way in Hawai‘i’s visitor industry and give back to their communities. Tann serves as general manager of Keoki’s Paradise and Yamazaki serves as the general manager of Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa.

Tari Manin, BBA ’19, and Cole Suyemoto, BBA ’19
Brittany Bonilla, BBA ’17
Photo courtesy of Shanel Honolulu.
Michelle Quach, BBA ’16

1970s

Tertia Freas, BBA ’78, has been appointed to First Hawaiian, Inc. and First Hawaiian Bank Boards of Directors. Freas serves as the executive director of The Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation and has 35 years of experience in public accounting.

2000s

Nina Buenconsejo, BS ’07, MBA ’14, joins Kamehameha Schools as portfolio project manager, overseeing projects for the advancement and leadership teams working collaboratively to align with the organization’s strategic plan.

Reid Hinaga, BBA ’06, has been promoted to senior vice president and branch division manager at Hawaii State Federal Credit Union. Hinaga oversees the operations and strategic planning for the credit union’s 14-branch network and member service call center. He leads initiatives to improve staff performance, enhance customer satisfaction and align operations with the credit union’s long-term goals.

2010s

Janeen Woellhof, BBA ’10, MHRM ’11, was named interim executive director

at Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. Woellhof oversees and supports initiatives of the museum’s senior leadership and key staff.

Marnelli Joy Ulep, BBA ’10, was named the inaugural director of Pamantasan, a University of Hawai‘i task force dedicated to increasing the recruitment, support and success of Filipino students, faculty and staff across UH’s 10 campuses.

2020s

Ila Ferris, BBA ’22, joins the Maui Economic Development Board as program manager. Ferris is responsible for supporting the STEMworks™ program, an initiative focused on diversifying Maui County’s economy and providing K-12 students with opportunities in STEM through internships, career awareness events and teacher training.

Alyssa Mencel, BBA ’22, has been named senior financial analyst at BKM Capital Partners. Mencel is leading strategic financial initiatives to enhance decision-making processes. She is responsible for forecasting, budgeting, profitability analysis and leveraging advanced data analytics to optimize and streamline financial workflows.

From Chillin’ to Chili – Happy Retirement!

After more than 15 years of service, Paul Yokota, BBA ’79, retired as president of FCH Enterprises, Inc., the parent company of Zippy’s. As a young man, Yokota was an aspiring musician and he and his friends often ended up hanging out at Zippy’s after gigs and rehearsals in Waikiki. He ultimately chose to work in the hospitality industry and held a variety of leadership positions in companies including Westin Hotels & Resorts and Prince Resorts Hawai‘i. He joined FCH as chief operating officer in 2008 before becoming the company’s president.

Shining Star

Lynn Miyahira, MBA ’10, was named to PRNEWS’ People of the Year 2024. Miyahira, vice president of iQ360, was recognized in “The Public Affairs Leaders” category for her efforts to influence and educate the public on social, economic, governmental and other important issues.

Lynn Miyahira, MBA ’10
Photo courtesy of Zippy s Restaurants.
Photo courtesy of iQ360.

Meet Sean Ganhinhin, BS ’ 08, general manager for the Prince Waikiki, a property featuring oceanfront rooms and suites. His responsibilities include overseeing operations, sales and marketing efforts for Prince Waikiki and Hawaii Prince Golf Club. Prior to his current post, he held leadership positions at Marriott Vacations Worldwide, The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas, The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa. He earned his bachelor’s degree in travel industry management from the School of Travel Industry Management. Ganhinhin resides in Honolulu with his family.

Tell us about a day at the office.

“I usually get in early and spend about an hour checking emails and I try to be ‘on the floor’ as much as possible. I enjoy walking our lobby and checking in with our guest-facing teams. When VIPs arrive, I greet them. There are always meetings, especially toward the end of the year when we’re in budgeting season and planning for the upcoming year. I also conduct regular one-on-one meetings with team leaders. I want to make sure I’m aware of what’s happening and more importantly, I want my team to know that I’m always available if they need something.”

What projects/initiatives are you currently working on?

“We just got through ‘Festive Season,’ which included weekly workshops where guests and locals joined for wreath making, soapmaking, canvas painting and all sorts of other family-friendly activities. We then had the grand opening of our Sippin’ Santa Holiday Bar and Holly Jolly Waikiki Trolley. We do have some great things coming up in 2025, including exciting renovations around Prince Waikiki.”

What are some of your favorite memories of Shidler?

“My favorite memory of Shidler is feeling like family with my classmates. We would gather in the courtyard to eat, study and just hang out – it felt like home. Even some of our professors would hang out

in the courtyard and it was just an overall good feeling. It was like we were the only ones that existed on that campus. I also fondly recall living off the coffee cart!”

What do you do to relax/destress?

“I enjoy unwinding with my family. My wife and two boys are my pride and joy so any time I get to spend with them is my favorite way to relax. Being active also helps to clear my mind so I exercise as often as my schedule allows me. It’s a great way to destress and be physically healthy at the same time.”

How did your experiences at Shidler prepare you for what was to come?

“As a TIM grad, I’m impressed at how the school prepares students for the hospitality industry. When I graduated from Shidler, I felt excited and prepared to enter the travel industry and I believe that Shidler sent me into the real world with a well-equipped toolkit. I gained so much knowledge and experience in and out of the classroom. The camaraderie inspired me to join the travel boards I sit on today, which include the Waikiki Improvement Association, The Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association and The Independent Hotel Show.”

What’s your advice for current students?

“Slow down and don’t rush. I was eager to get out of college and start working, but when I look back now, I wish I had slowed

down, enjoyed life more and traveled. I’ve learned through the years that it’s not about how quick you can get through life, it’s about the quality of the time you spend. When you’re young, you think life is a race. As you become wise, you realize racing through life is the last thing you want to do. Instead of rushing, take it all in and embrace every moment you’re given.”

What’s your favorite lunch?

“During the week, my favorite lunch is the wagyu burger from our signature hotel restaurant, 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar. It’s served with bacon jam and pepperjack cheese, and the whole combination just melts in your mouth! Plus, we have the best french fries in town–not too thick, not too thin and perfectly crisp on the outside but soft on the inside.”

What’s your favorite activity outside of the office?

“I love traveling, it inspires me. I feel enlightened and satisfied when I’m traveling–tasting new food, learning new languages and seeing new landmarks. Now that I have kids, I believe it’s important for them to experience other parts of the world as well.”

Ganhinhin with his wife, Katie, and their two sons, Mason and Cruze.

At the Kahala Hotel & Resort, timeless elegance and superior service come together to create a legendary experience for both our guests and colleagues. Our commitment to excellence offers team members opportunities to grow professionally while contributing to a meaningful purpose.

Through the Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture, and the Arts (KISCA) program, team members actively support the preservation of O‘ahu’s land, ocean, and culture. Whether volunteering for restoration projects like removing invasive algae from Maunalua Bay or cleaning Kahala Beach, our colleagues embrace their kuleana to protect Hawai‘i’s unique environment and traditions for future generations.

We also invest in career development through paid professional training with partners like the Hawai‘i Lodging and Tourism Association and Society for Human Resource Management. Our leaders further support growth by mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals through programs like Skål International Hawai‘i and Junior Chamber International.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where colleagues feel valued and supported in every part of their journey. Together, we honor the spirit of aloha while building a legacy of service, community, and shared purpose

The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Back row left to right: Scott Kaneshiro, BBA ’15, Human Resources Business Partner; Henry Hui, BBA ’16, Assistant Director of Finance; Karen Miller, BBA ’ 90, Director of Human Resources; Kelly Strickland, BS ’ 97, Director of Group Sales

and Catering; Lehua Cameron, BBA ’ 22, Sales & Marketing Administrative Assistant; Pualani Fernandez, BS ’ 00, MHRM ’11, Resort Manager; Lyle Uehara, BS ’ 94, Commercial Director

Front row left to right: Emily Cho, BS ’19, MS ’ 22, Food & Beverage Office Manager; Given Yagi, BS ’ 20, Director of Housekeeping; Taylor Ledgerwood, BS ’ 23, KISCA Manager; Natsuka Hatta, BS ’ 24, Concierge

Only AACSB accredited graduate business program in Hawai‘i

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