Celebrating 25 YEARS
OF PACE
DEAN’S MESSAGE
ALOHA,
In this issue of Shidler Business, we celebrate the collective efforts of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and partners—whose dedication continues to elevate the college and create new opportunities for future generations. At its heart, Shidler remains committed to forging meaningful connections and expanding our impact across Hawai‘i and beyond.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE). From its humble beginnings in a 200-squarefoot space, PACE has evolved into the state-of-the-art Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center—a thriving hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Since RISE opened in 2023, PACE has:
Supported over 200 student ideas
Engaged over 2,000 UH system students
Mobilized more than 185 volunteers
Awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships and awards
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
Collaborated with over 35 university level, industry and community partners
Hosted more than 250 PACE events and activities
Provided more than 300 classroom presentations
Hosted more than 150 outside community events in the RISE Center
Our alumni network also continues to grow and thrive. Recent young alumni mixers have brought together graduates across industries, sparking new connections and momentum. In April, alumni mixers in Tokyo and Hong Kong welcomed nearly 100 alumni, friends and study abroad students, with a keynote by Sandra Fujiyama, executive director of PACE, highlighting the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center’s impact. We look forward to keeping that energy going with a West Coast trip this September, featuring a Newport Beach yacht cruise hosted by Bill Johnson, BBA ’65, a San Francisco reception and a Seattle meet-and-greet with Andy Archer, MS ’22, of the baseball team, the Savannah Bananas.
Thank you for being part of our community. I hope the stories in this issue leave you proud and inspired by the incredible work happening at Shidler and beyond.
Sincerely,
V. Vance Roley
Dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management
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
GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Kiana Loftis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS | Paula Ota & Tyson Yamada, BBA ’03, MBA ’07
WEB | Loren Swendsen, MBA ’07
CIRCULATION NUMBERS
Print 14,490 | Digital 19,311 shidler.hawaii.edu/magazine
DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION
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Volume 48, Number 1 Spring/Summer 2025
ON THE COVER PACE celebrates 25 years of sparking innovation at UH.
Shidler College of Business Advisory Council
CONTENTS
Features
06 | Sustainability with Aloha
08 | Rising Recent Alumni
College News
10 | Business Night
10 | Honoring K.K. Seo
12 | Student Snapshots
14 | What’s Happening at PACE
Faculty and Staff Notes
18 | Notable Mentions
Donor News
20 | Skål Hawaii Scholarship 21 | EMBA Alumni Scholarship
Alumni News 22 | Alumni Features 26 | Alumni Snapshots 28 | Class Notes
30 | Talk Story Features David Morimoto 31 | Alumni at Work Features ProService Hawai‘i
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, Former President & Senior Advisor, Young Brothers | 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 | 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
HOSPITALITY WITH
heart
TIM SCHOOL PROFESSOR’S JOURNEY FROM INDUSTRY TO ACADEMIC INNOVATOR
BY DANI DOUGLASS
Sometimes circumstances choose our path forward. For TIM School Associate Professor of Travel Industry Management and Hee Foundation Endowed Fellow Lenna Shulga, her journey to academia was happenstance. Shulga was born in Ukraine and several decades ago, she and her family immigrated from Russia. She landed her first job in America after connecting with a woman who also had a young child and was the daughter of a Japanese immigrant. The bed and breakfast owner hired Shulga on the spot as a front desk girl.
Shulga reflects that those early days in Cambridge, Massachusetts, provided her family with the flexibility needed to establish roots. When the small bed and breakfast expanded, adding a boutique hotel and an events venue, so did her hospitality skills. She went on to hold management positions at Hilton and Extended Stay America Hotels and discovered she enjoyed the fast-paced nature of hospitality and was pretty good at customer service. Before long, Shulga desired to advance her hospitality career and earned her master’s in business administration at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. One of her professors suggested she pursue her doctorate. She concurred it was a good idea and headed west to attend
the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). While studying at one of the country’s premier hospitality schools, the seed was planted for Shulga to mentor the next generation.
“My advisor and mentor at UNLV inspired, guided and supported my academic journey,” she said. “It is important to have great mentors in your life. And I am inspired to be one.”
PRACTICE MEETS PEDAGOGY
Shulga’s humble beginnings coupled with her passion for the industry and the desire to give back were all factors leading her to the classroom. When the School of Travel Industry Management (TIM School) offered her a position in 2017, it was a natural choice for her to accept.
“UH has an excellent reputation as a first-tier research institution that is known around the globe,” she said. “Located in the world’s top travel destination, the TIM School has a recognized brand and is wellestablished as a center for research and scholarship.”
Since becoming a professor specializing in hospitality human resources management and organizational behavior, Shulga has embraced and leaned on her personal experiences in the industry. She enjoys applying those lessons and sharing stories with her students. She believes in maintaining strong connections with Hawai‘i’s visitor industry and often creates industryrelated projects. She also invites speakers into the classroom.
Another vital skill she weaves into the curriculum is critical thinking, which can be a daunting task in the age of artificial intelligence. “No matter whether you have AI or robots, you still have people who manage those and you need to know how to manage people,” she says.
She uses impactful teaching methods to prepare students for their future careers, including a case-study approach modeled after Harvard Business School. Students analyze a business scenario to identify organizational problems and their root causes. Then they develop best, worst and balanced case solutions and present the pros, cons and next steps. Students also conduct simulations. In human resources classes, they imitate collective bargaining between a labor union and hotel management. In her strategic management courses, the simulations include making decisions about growth strategies for an online travel agency.
Entering into her ninth year of teaching at the TIM School, Shulga
believes that leadership and financial analysis skills are essential for future hospitality professionals. There are many soft skills related to being a good manager, such as communication, strategic thinking, delegation, emotional intelligence, accountability and self-awareness. And without financial acumen, Shulga says career progression will stall.
Shulga is also a core faculty member in TIM School’s Ph.D. program. She’s been invaluable in shaping curriculum, coteaching courses and recently organized a campus-wide workshop with renowned scholar Joe Hair. Shulga earned the 2025 Shirley M. Lee Research Award for her contributions and she’s received the Professor of the Semester honor five times since 2019, as well at the 2024 Best Paper Award at the West Federation CHRIE Conference.
THE HUMAN SIDE OF HOSPITALITY
Shulga’s research drives a large portion of her curriculum and although she has numerous topics that inspire her research, there are recent interests that stand out with exciting implications for the field. One introduced emotional investment, a concept in the hospitality industry revealing that employees–especially managers–develop a strong emotional connection to their work and organizational success.
“When employees are emotionally invested, they are more engaged, provide better customer services and they are more committed to their organizations,” she said. “They also improve their personal resilience. All in all, being emotionally invested in work is a good thing.”
Shulga has taken a deep dive into what's involved in managing talent.
Through five studies conducted on talent management–three of which focused on hospitality employees in Hawai‘i including TIM alumni, she found that 95% of employees view themselves as “talented.” This insight supports the need for inclusive talent management systems that recognize and develop skills across all levels. A new project she is working on with Kwanglim Seo, associate professor of TIM, and Dan Spencer, director and professor of TIM, analyzes current and future skill gaps in Hawai‘i’s hospitality workforce and proposes strategies to address them.
Shulga’s journey from her first job in the bed and breakfast many years ago to where she stands today has come full circle. She’s had countless experiences allowing her to share stories with her students. “You need to become an expert in something,” she said.
Aside from the pragmatic advice, Shulga says the journey is meant to be enjoyed and that hospitality is incredibly rewarding. It’s fast-paced, diverse and presents the opportunity to create special memories.
“...It is important to have great mentors in your life. And I'm inspired to be one.
-Lenna Shulga
FROM DIY SAND SIFTERS TO SUSTAINABILITY WITH
aloha
TIM SCHOOL ALUMNI CREATING OPPORTUNITY FOR KAMA‘AINA AND VISITORS TO GIVE BACK
BY DANI DOUGLASS
While he was a student at the School of Travel Industry Management (TIM School), Jared Matsuki, BS ’19, executive director of Hele Mua, had a defining moment that would shape his future–he attended his first beach cleanup at Makapu‘u Beach Park in 2018. He was a frequent beach goer but he said this time was different because it opened his eyes to a problem hidden under the sand.
“I realized just how much plastic was buried beneath the surface–not just large bottles or bags, but tiny, brokendown fragments of microplastics,” he said. “I remember feeling overwhelmed because I could barely make a dent in one small area. That moment stayed with me, it opened my eyes to a deeper problem–one that’s invisible unless you’re really looking.”
Following that fateful cleanup, he felt inspired to take action and Matsuki started to volunteer regularly with local nonprofits hosting beach cleanups and learned everything he could about how they were run. He also started
making sand sifters with his dad using scrap wood they had at home. He used them during small cleanups he organized with his friends a few times a year.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, it gave Matsuki time to think and reflect about what a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of microplastics and creating a regenerative experience for participants could look like. Starting with a meaningful name, Hele Mua was born.
Matsuki says the name means to “go forward” and it was aligned perfectly with the direction he envisioned taking the organization. This involves connecting tourism and the local community to work together to protect and preserve the ‘aina through Native Hawaiian practices to inspire sustainable living.
By 2023, the organization obtained its nonprofit status and is growing steadily. Matsuki is joined by fellow alumni Romel Gaspar, BS ’21, account recruiting manager
at Actalent, who is the board’s community engagement and outreach manager; and Savanna Diorec, BS ’22, catering and conference coordinator for Prince Waikiki, who serves the board as social media manager. The trio, along with three other board members, host events, partner with community organizations and create hands-on stewardship opportunities.
Gaspar says that the cultural education component of Hele Mua is essential because it adds depth to the organization’s mission. When connecting with the community, the board conducts research and consults with cultural practitioners and professionals to ensure cultural elements are approached with care and integrity. And he’s witnessed the positive effects.
“One of the most memorable moments was seeing people genuinely surprised and full of joy during one of our events,” he said. “We put a lot of effort into creating an intimate and meaningful atmosphere, so when participants are truly engaged, it makes all the work worth it. Those are the moments that stay with us.”
Diorec enjoys telling Hele Mua’s story in a way that resonates with people online, including those who have never visited Hawai‘i. She hopes that the organization’s work inspires pride and empowerment, and shows that taking care of our ‘aina is something we can all be part of.
“Even if someone’s never been to Hawai‘i, I want them to feel inspired to make a difference wherever they are,” she said. “At all of our beach cleanups, we include a Hawaiian cultural aspect—whether it’s starting the day with an oli, playing ‘ulu maika, or making ti leaf leis. We incorporate these practices to educate and keep the traditions alive.”
A STRONG TIM SCHOOL FOUNDATION
During his time as a student, Matsuki says that he took full advantage of the opportunities available to him, including membership and leadership roles in TIMSA and Eta Sigma Delta. He also participated in Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association’s Generational Mentorship program, studied abroad in Tokyo and completed internships. He reflects that these experiences, alongside impactful courses from professors like Jerry Agrusa, helped him gain perspective.
“I got to see tourism from so many angles–as a student, an employee, an intern and a volunteer,” he said. “That helped shape how I see the industry’s role in Hawai‘i and why I believe Hele Mua’s mission–to bridge tourism with culture and community–is so important. A lot of what we do today is rooted in the experiences and lessons I picked up during those four years.”
Looking ahead, Matsuki says he would love for Hele Mua to help set the standard for what regenerative tourism looks like. The organization plans to support this through expanding its partnerships, offering guidance to other destinations and helping Hawai‘i to lead by example–showing that tourism can be restorative.
If you’d like to learn more about Hele Mua and stay in the loop about future events, visit helemua.org or follow the organization on social media @helemuahawaii.
“I
got to see tourism from so many angles–as a student, an employee, an intern and a volunteer.
-Jared Matsuki
Rising
THE NEXT GENERATION IS BUILDING CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY
BY DANI DOUGLASS
A packed room of 80 recent Shidler College graduates standing amongst Aloha Beer Company’s owner and Shidler alumnus Steve Sombrero, MBA ’94, while chanting “Aloha Beer!” isn’t exactly what most picture as alumni engagement. But it’s events like the recent alumni mixer, held in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s Young Professional (YP) Program in April, that are gaining momentum amongst the newest generation of alumni. These gatherings are building community, creating mentorship opportunities and strengthening the alumni network in innovative ways that are engaging and a whole lot of fun.
The inspiration for the April event was born earlier this year at a recent alumni happy hour the college hosted in collaboration with the Shidler Alumni Association. Christine Quach, BBA ’19, former alumni, communications and event specialist for Shidler, said it was another fellow alumna, Kelli Chinen, BBA ’22, who approached her in January with the idea. Chinen serves on the membership committee of the YP Program and thought having a combination event would be a great way to connect the networks. She’s also an active member of the college’s
RECENT ALUMNI
alumni network, beginning her term as director of the Shidler Alumni Association in July.
Quach says a highlight of April’s event was it felt full circle, with two Shidler alumnae planning the event, which was held at an alumnus-owned business. All while continuing to grow a community that recent alumni can feel proud to be a part of.
Each of our events has brought out more alums and many have never attended previous Shidler events. We were happy to see that we’re slowly bridging the gap and strengthening the connections of our alums.”
-Christine Quach
The most recent event at Aloha Beer Company–a sold-out success–was the third in a series geared toward alumni who’ve graduated in the past ten years. Each has seen a larger interest and attendance. The inaugural gathering was themed “Sweat and Sip,” which hosted 30 for an energizing workout at Orangetheory Fitness, followed by a hard-earned pau hana at Village Bottle Shop and Tasting Room. As the interest for these types of events continues to grow, the college expects to strengthen the momentum with regular activities. Some ideas in the queue for consideration include
hiking, Paint and Sip and service projects.
“It’s inspiring to see the growing enthusiasm among our recent alumni,” Shidler College Dean Vance Roley, said. “Their engagement is vital to the strength and future of our Shidler network. I’m proud of the momentum we’ve built through recent events and look forward to seeing even more young professionals reconnect, contribute and thrive together in the coming years.”
In addition to events geared toward recent Shidler alumni, the Shidler Alumni Association also runs the Recent Alumni Mentorship Program (RAMP). This free program is designed for those who have graduated within the past five years and would like to connect with and learn directly from some of Hawai‘i’s most respected business leaders. The tailored program allows participants to set their own goals. Quach has both participated in and watched three cohorts graduate during her time working at the college.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to witness firsthand the transformation participants experience and to hear how the program has impacted their personal and professional growth,” she said.
Stay in the loop about upcoming recent alumni events and programs by following @shidleralumni and @timalumniassociation on Instagram and checking the events calendar at shidler.hawaii.edu/events.
COLLEGE NEWS
Mentorship and milestones shine bright at Business Night
Shidler College hosted its 64th annual Business Night on May 8 at the Sheraton Waikiki, bringing together nearly 500 students and business professionals for an evening of mentorship, recognition and networking. This longstanding tradition continues to serve as a signature event celebrating academic excellence and fostering professional development.
Organized by a student committee, the evening pairs each student with a mentor aligned with their academic focus or career interests. Guests were treated to a networking reception, dinner and awards presentation. This year’s theme was “First Class Futures: Elevating Tomorrow’s Leaders” and was reflected throughout the event’s program.
A total of 52 awards, amounting to $98,500 in scholarships, were presented to exceptional undergraduate and graduate students. AJ Halagao, MBA ’04, president of Hawai‘i Leadership Forum, delivered a powerful keynote speech, sharing lessons in perseverance and growth.
Mahalo to long-standing event sponsors First Insurance Company of Hawaii, now a 20-year sponsor and Hawaii Business magazine for its ninth sponsorship year.
Honoring K.K. Seo’s legacy: AFS Golf Tournament raises $12K for scholarships
The Asian Field Study Association (AFSA) hosted an inaugural golf tournament this spring, raising more than $12,000 for the Endowed K.K. Seo Scholarship Fund. The event honored the legacy of Professor K.K. Seo, who founded Shidler’s Asian Field Study (AFS) program, while celebrating his lifelong commitment to shaping global business leaders.
The Feb. 25 event was held at the Hawaii Prince Golf Course and brought together students, alumni, faculty and business professionals for a day of golf, networking and fun. Following the tournament, an executive mixer provided an opportunity for students to connect with industry leaders.
The AFS program, now over 40 years strong, has facilitated more than 450 company visits across Asia, offering students hands-on experience with global business practices. Current AFS Director Ben Bystrom said that golf was a fitting choice to support the program’s mission of fostering cross-cultural business relationships because it’s a key networking sport in Asia.
A big mahalo to event sponsors WestPac Wealth Partners, The Seo Family, Mi-Health, Morinaga America (Chargel), Aloun Farms, Oahu Golf Apparel and Bystrom—who capped off the event with a double eagle on the 18th hole!
The Shidler College of Business Alumni Association hosted its 25th annual Executive Vineyards fundraiser on March 7 at The Royal Hawaiian, drawing more than 600 guests and raising $68,500 to support student scholarships, academic initiatives and alumni outreach efforts.
Attendees from across Hawai‘i’s business community enjoyed an evening of gourmet hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, a vast selection of wines and spirits and panoramic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. The elegant celebration also featured an online auction, prize drawings and opportunities to network with fellow professionals.
Spirits and wine were generously donated by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Hawaii, Beverage Marketing & More and Tamura’s Fine Wines and Liquors. Platinum sponsors included Bank of Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i State Federal Credit Union, Mahi Pono, Par Hawaii and The Shidler Group. Pacific Business News served as the media sponsor and local newscaster and UH Mānoa alumna Kelly Simek emceed the evening.
Shidler alumni raise over $68K at 25th Executive Vineyards
RICK ’ S CORNER
Celebrating tourism’s legacy in Hawai‘i: Industry leaders honored while supporting students
More than $300,000 was raised for TIM School student scholarships at the 23rd annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism on April 2 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. The event supports student scholarships and honors individuals and organizations shaping Hawai‘i’s tourism industry.
John Morgan, president of Kualoa Ranch, received the Legacy in Tourism Award for his leadership in sustainable tourism and cultural preservation. Tetsuji Yamazaki, MS ’96, general manager of the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor. He was also recently named the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s 2024 General Manager of the Year for a resort property. Japan Airlines received the Distinguished Service Award for its decades-long contributions to Hawai‘i’s visitor industry and economy.
Mahalo to presenting sponsor First Hawaiian Bank and contributing sponsors, Kualoa Ranch, Kyo-Ya Hotels and Resorts, and Marriott International. Hawai‘i Business Magazine served as media partner.
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 winter and spring 2025 semesters, Varley placed 436 Shidler students in internships.
In this feature, Andrew Owens, BBA ’24, recalls his journey of completing several internships during his time at the college. One of the internships was at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), one of the Big Four accounting firms, which ultimately led to Owens securing his first full-time position after graduation. He has now been with the San Francisco Bay Area company for eight months as an assurance associate.
From uncertainty to assurance: My journey to PwC through mentorship and experience
By Andrew Owens
I began my journey at Shidler as a sophomore transfer student, uncertain about my career direction. After taking an introductory financial accounting class and receiving guidance from professors Manu Ka‘iama and Kristine Santaniello, I developed a strong interest in public accounting. This sparked my decision to pursue a career in the field.
Shortly after completing the course, I secured a summer internship in the leasing department of a property management firm, which gave me a valuable introduction to the business world. I then focused on securing a public accounting internship for the following summer and ultimately landed a position at Armanino, a mid-sized accounting firm, which solidified my interest in public accounting.
After my internship at Armanino, I met with Rick Varley. He served as a mentor who helped me navigate the process of earning college credit for my internships. I knew how important it was not only to gain practical work experience but also to accumulate enough credits to sit for the CPA exam.
Encouraged by Rick, I applied for a position at PwC, one of the Big Four accounting firms. I received an offer but because I already had a return offer from Armanino, I turned to him for advice. He emphasized the importance of gaining diverse experience at firms of different sizes, which would help me explore my interests and diversify my skills. Taking his advice to heart, I accepted the offer from PwC.
After completing my summer internship at PwC, I met with Rick again to discuss college credit and the next steps for accepting a return offer. Ultimately, I accepted a full-time offer and thanks to his guidance, was able to get college credit for all three internships I had completed during my time at Shidler.
Upon graduation, I sat for the CPA exam and started my fulltime position at PwC as an assurance associate, working with clients in the technology sector. Reflecting on my journey, I learned that mentorship and career exploration were key to finding my professional direction.
STUDENT SNAPSHOTS
1 | STUDENTS TOURING BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON
Delta Sigma Pi students toured Booz Allen Hamilton’s Honolulu office through the Shidler Global Leaders Mentorship Program. Hosted by Ed Barnabas, vice president Hawaii and Indo-Pacific at Booz Allen Hamilton, the visit provided insights into federal contracting and innovation— giving students a firsthand look at real-world applications of their business education.
2 | TIM STUDENTS ENGAGE AT TOURISM DAY
TIM School students took part in the 2025 Tourism Day at the Hawai‘i State
Capitol, connecting with lawmakers, industry leaders and alumni. Led by staff and alumni, the group explored tourism’s impact, heard from state officials and met Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke—gaining valuable insight into the intersection of policy and tourism.
3 | MSF MIXER CONNECTS STUDENTS AND INDUSTRY
The MSF Mixer on Feb. 11 brought students, alumni, faculty and finance professionals together for an evening of networking and mentorship. Through breakout and roundtable sessions, industry leaders shared career insights and advice.
The event also celebrated MSF scholarship recipients, showcasing the program’s dedication to student achievement and professional growth.
4 | TIM SCHOOL WELCOMES HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
On April 28, students from Pearl City and Campbell High Schools visited the TIM School for an immersive look at business and hospitality education. In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, the visit featured campus tours, faculty talks and student panels—highlighting the academic and career opportunities at UH M anoa.
5 | SHIDLER GRADUATE STUDENTS WIN NATIONAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE COMPETITION
Guided by Accounting and Lloyd Fujie/Deloitte Foundation Distinguished Professor Jian Zhou, a trio of Shidler College of Business graduate students earned top honors at the 2024 Association of Government Accountants (AGA) Government Finance Case Challenge in December 2024. Thomas Fukata, Seth Addison, MAcc ’24, and Kaedin Okimoto, BBA ’25, each took home first place—and a $1,500 scholarship—after analyzing data to create a citizen-friendly report and a
high-quality video spotlighting the state of Maine. Competing against 25 teams nationwide, the Shidler team advanced to the final round and impressed a panel of government finance experts with their presentation. The win marks UH M anoa’s fourth victory in five years.
6 | TIMSA GOES GLOBAL WITH TRIP TO LONDON
This spring, members of the Travel Industry Management Student Association (TIMSA) embarked on an unforgettable trip to London, where they explored the global hospitality industry firsthand. Thanks to the warm hospitality of The Marble
Arch London, The Standard London and Sojern, students participated in exclusive site visits that offered behind-the-scenes views of international hotel operations, marketing innovation and guest experience strategies. These immersive experiences deepened their understanding of how the tourism and hospitality sectors thrive in global markets. In addition to professional site visits, the group embraced London’s vibrant culture—sampling local cuisine, touring historic landmarks and gaining a global perspective on the travel industry. The trip not only broadened the students academic learning but also fueled their passion for future careers in tourism and hospitality.
1 | STUDENTS DRIVE REAL-WORLD IMPACT THROUGH BUSINESS COLLABORATIONS
Students involved in PACE gained hands-on experience this year by solving real business challenges and delivering actionable solutions through diverse projects and partnerships. In collaboration with the Family Business Center of Hawai‘i, student teams developed practical tools, including a scheduling app for Malu Productions and a refreshed digital strategy for Ben Franklin Crafts. Their innovative work earned the prestigious Tora and Choko Miyasato Award, recognizing their ability to address realworld business needs.
Another standout initiative was the Asia-Pacific cross-cultural ambassador program, created in partnership with Meijo University and social entrepreneurship group Very50. The experience allowed students to collaborate across cultures and explore global perspectives on social innovation.
Students also worked with Meals in a HeartBeet, a locally sourced meal delivery service on Hawai‘i Island. This project was led by CPB Foundation Scholarship for Entrepreneurship recipients. The team helped shape a comprehensive marketing strategy focused on branding, customer engagement and website functionality.
These experiences exemplify how PACE empowers students to apply entrepreneurial thinking, contribute to local businesses and gain global exposure while still in school.
2 | IDEAS TURNED INTO STARTUPS
The PACE Entrepreneurs program supports first-time founders in launching new businesses across Hawai‘i. This year, 11 UH students participated in the intensive initiative, working to turn innovative ideas into viable ventures addressing issues like food security, workforce development and cultural awareness.
The six participating companies were:
. BlueMed: AI-driven aquatic disease diagnostics
. Puhano Hawai‘i: A lifestyle brand inspired by island living
. Hex Technologies: A platform connecting students and alumni to jobs and internships
. COCO: A food inventory and recipe app combating food waste
. sosal: A live-streaming app enabling real-time global video requests
. Custom Lobby: Pop-up gaming events in a café-style setting
Founders, including Quang Loc Lam, Thi Hai Au La, Jazlen Lucas and others, developed Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) through rigorous market research and customer discovery. They received expert guidance from PACE Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Jeff Hui and dedicated mentors Ilias Beshimov, Nicole Cacal, BBA ’11, Stephen Haugse, Dave Kozuki, BBA ’89, Chris Lee, Phil Mok and Lee Wang, EMBA ’19.
The experience culminated at the PACE Founders and Friends Showcase on April 28, where students presented their MVPs to PACE’s network and received feedback. Top teams earned cash prizes and two companies have
already registered as official businesses in Hawai‘i.
3 | CHAMPIONING
INTERDISCIPLINARY CAMPUS INNOVATION
This year, PACE partnered with colleges and departments across the UH System to create interdisciplinary experiences that reflect the real-world nature of entrepreneurship. These collaborations exposed students to entrepreneurial opportunities in fashion, technology and sustainability— encouraging them to apply diverse skills beyond their primary fields of study.
In fashion, PACE teamed up with the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program to explore creative entrepreneurship. Students engaged with local founders like Kris Goto, Kuha‘o Zane and leaders from always a.line and Aloha Cut & Cloth, gaining insights from across the creative economy.
In tech, PACE hosted Tech Minds with ThriveHI and UH Tech Days, giving students exposure to software, UX/UI and hardware development. Additionally, SWITCH welcomed systems engineer and entrepreneur Sara La Torre for a candid conversation about breaking into big tech and startup life.
In the sustainability space, PACE collaborated with the Student Sustainability Council on a Level Up workshop and cohosted Mahina Honua, a panel event with the Hawai‘i Leadership Forum. Entrepreneurs Doreen Wong and Jennifer Loh also shared practical strategies for launching impactful, eco-conscious ventures.
These cross-campus efforts highlight PACE’s commitment to empowering students through experiential, interdisciplinary learning.
4 | FACULTY INNOVATION TAKES CENTER STAGE AT EL3VATE SHOWCASE
Over the past year, PACE partnered with faculty across the UH System—from architecture and business to esports and human nutrition—to infuse innovation into the classroom. These educators are championing real-world problem-solving and encouraging students to apply their knowledge through an entrepreneurial lens, no matter their discipline.
This commitment to transformative learning was on display at the EL3vate Showcase, held May 16 at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center. The event celebrated nine UH faculty members who completed EL3vate—a year-long professional development program codeveloped by PACE, the UH Online Innovation Center and the Maui Economic Development Board.
EL3vate equips educators with tools to incorporate experiential learning, entrepreneurial frameworks and engineering design thinking into their curricula. Each participating faculty member received a stipend, a UH-verified digital badge and a certificate of completion.
As PACE continues to foster innovation at every level of the university, programs like EL3vate demonstrate the powerful impact of cross-disciplinary collaboration in shaping future-ready students.
pace.shidler.hawaii.edu/ pace-faculty-fellows
PACE AT 25 : A LEGACY IN MOTION
2025 MARKS A QUARTER CENTURY OF CULTIVATING INNOVATION AT UH
The Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) is celebrating 25 years of transforming ideas into impact across the University of Hawai‘i. What began as a modest 200-square-foot office has evolved into a systemwide engine for innovation—empowering students, launching ventures and helping reshape Hawai‘i’s entrepreneurial landscape.
PACE’s roots trace back to former Shidler College Dean David McClain, who recognized early on the need to prepare students for the fast-evolving world of entrepreneurship.
With support from Gov. Ben Cayetano and the state legislature, the Center for Entrepreneurship and E-Business was formally launched, giving UH students direct access to entrepreneurial resources and opportunities.
Under Dean Vance Roley’s leadership in the early 2000s, the program deepened its ties to the local business community. A pivotal initiative was the creation of the Kipapa i ke Ala Lecture Series, launched
with the support of community leader John C. Dean. The program brought nationally recognized innovators to campus and helped spark a university-wide culture of entrepreneurship.
In 2008, a defining new chapter began when Dean Roley appointed serial entrepreneur Susan Yamada, BBA ’82, as executive director of the center. Under her leadership, the renamed PACE expanded into a year-round hub for entrepreneurship education—offering pitch competitions, workshops, mentorship and real-world training for students across disciplines. What started as a business school initiative soon became a resource for the entire UH System.
As Hawai‘i’s innovation ecosystem gained traction, so did PACE’s role within it. Fueled by a growing network of notable alumni, mentors, funders and community partners, the center became a launchpad for student-led ventures and entrepreneurial thinking across the state.
MILESTONES THAT MOVED THE MISSION
In 2016, PACE reached a key milestone with the opening of a 1,300-square-foot coworking space—made possible through a $3 million fundraising campaign. But the center’s most transformative leap came in 2023 with the opening of the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center, a pioneering live-learnwork facility situated on University Ave. across from Shidler College.
RISE combines a 10,000-square-foot innovation hub with student housing for 374 students, creating a dynamic space where ideas are sparked and tested daily. Funded by generous community contributions—matched by a $5 million gift from Walter Dods, Jr.—the space quickly became a hub of activity and opportunity.
Since opening its doors to RISE, PACE is impacting the community with impressive reach:
. 200+ student startup ideas sparked . 2,000+ students engaged across the UH System
. 250+ events and workshops hosted . $500,000+ in scholarships and awards distributed
. 185+ volunteers and mentors mobilized . 150+ external organizations welcomed
PACE also earned prestigious accolades in 2024, including a Pacific Business News Inno Fire Award and the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Center Award for Outstanding Student Engagement and Leadership, awarded by counterparts from entrepreneurial education centers across the globe.
LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION AT UH
Today, under Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama, PACE is building on its legacy with a sharp focus on systemwide collaboration, deeper venture support and partnerships that connect students to realworld innovation challenges.
PACE is more than a center. It’s a launchpad for the next generation of leaders, problem-solvers and changemakers.
- Sandra Fujiyama
As it celebrates 25 years, PACE stands as a testament to what can happen when vision, education and community come together—and it’s only just getting started.
25 years of the UH Venture Competition
Celebrating student innovation since 1999
The University of Hawai‘i Venture Competition (UHVC), sponsored by American Savings Bank, marked its 25th year this year with record participation and over $100,000 in prizes. There were 13 semifinalist teams competing from across two campuses and more than 20 disciplines.
The top three winners were:
. BlueMed – 1st Place ($25,000 sponsored by American Savings Bank): AI aquaculture app
. WellNETS – 2nd Place ($10,000 sponsored by Sharon Weiner, MBA ’75):
Radar-based senior health tech
Grow Guam – 3rd Place ($5,000 sponsored by HiBEAM): Sustainable fashion
PACE also recognized Roma Amor Malasarte as Student Entrepreneur of the Year for her leadership across UH campuses.
shidler.hawaii.edu/uhvc25
FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES
Family News
Welcome baby Jai Ramchandani, born on Dec. 27, 2024, to assistant professor of accounting Abhishek Ramchandani and Jaclyn Ramchandani.
Welcome to the Shidler ‘Ohana
Aitor Alvarez joined the college as an institutional data analyst. Alvarez brings a wealth of experience in data analysis, machine learning and project management, spending the last decade as a technology lead at the Center for Language & Technology at UH M –anoa.
Dani Miller, BBA ’24, recently joined Shidler as development coordinator. She previously served as a student assistant and assistant event coordinator at the William S. Richardson School of Law. Before coming to Hawai‘i, Miller worked in Singapore as a talent associate and a marketing and PR coordinator.
Kaitlin Nalani Tilitile joined the Office of Student Academic Services as an academic advisor for TIM School. She most recently worked at the UH M –anoa Office of Admissions, where she served as an application and marketing communications specialist.
Wren Pang joined the School of Accountancy as an administrative and fiscal support specialist. In this role, she oversees daily operations, manages budgets, coordinates course scheduling, supports HR and recruitment processes and helps organize key academic accounting conferences.
Aitor Alvarez
Dani Miller, BBA ’24
FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES
In the News
Xiodan Mao-Clark, assistant professor of TIM was quoted in a WalletHub article “Cheapest Cars to Insure”, June 2025.
Jian Zhou, Lloyd Fujie/Deloitte Foundation Distinguished Professor of accounting, was also featured in a WalletHub article “Credit Card Interest Rates Guide”, June 2025.
Research and Publications
Jerry Agrusa, professor of TIM, presented research on the economic impacts of tourism to the U.S. State Department’s “Future Leaders Program” for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs on May 12. The lecture—attended by officials from 25 locations across Asia and the Pacific— covered Hawai‘i’s tourism history, regional tourism trends and the concept of regenerative tourism.
Adi Berbekova, assistant professor of TIM, and Ingrid Lin, professor of TIM, coauthored “Exploring the Connection Between Mental Health and Well-Being for Faculty in Hospitality and Tourism Education: A Thematic Analysis,” published in The Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education. Their timely study identifies key concerns around faculty mental health, including fear of disclosing stress, lack of institutional support and disparities across gender and racial groups.
Sahoon Kim, assistant professor of marketing, coauthored “Creativity Connects: Generating Creative Ideas on Behalf of a Brand Increases Feelings of Connection” with M. Rodas and J. Goncalo. The article was published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin in 2025.
Thane Messinger, professor of business law, published the third edition of “Business Law: Navigating the Turbulent Realm of Commerce.” The 2025 edition features numerous updates addressing recent and significant shifts in the U.S. Supreme Court jurisprudence with far-reaching implications for commerce and society.
Hannah-Hanh Nguyen, professor of management, presented her research at the 22nd European Congress of Work and Organizational Psychology in Prague, Czechia. Her poster, “Arabs' Experiences of Workplace Discrimination in the Western World: A Scoping Review,” was coauthored with E. Derous and D. Van Muylem.
Tray Spilker, associate professor of finance and Shidler Faculty Fellow, coauthored a groundbreaking study with O. Krasotkina and R. Wermers titled “Private Equity Fund Performance: A Time-Series Approach,” published in the Journal of Banking and Finance. The paper introduces a novel modeling technique that overcomes data limitations and offers new insights for both academic and professional applications.
Stephen L. Vargo, professor emeritus of marketing, was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Turku School of Economics in Finland. Recognized as one of the most cited scholars in marketing, Vargo was honored for his global contributions to service research, which have significantly shaped both academic theory and business practice.
Levin Zhu, assistant professor of marketing, coauthored “Sustainable Product Profit Potential and Availability,” with B. Bollinge and R. Kronthal-Sacco. Published in the Journal of Marketing Research, the article examines how demographic heuristics influence product stocking decisions in U.S. markets, often outweighing actual profit potential or consumer demand.
Awards and Recognitions
Congratulations to our spring 2025 award recipients!
Dennis Ching Teaching Award for Senior Faculty: Jerry Agrusa, professor of TIM; Dennis Ching Teaching Award for Junior Faculty: Kelly Holden, faculty instructor of marketing; Dean’s Ka Pou Hana Award: Penny Ching , freshman admissions advisor; Kaizen Award: Amanda Rease, event and marketing manager, TIM; Shirley M. Lee Research Award for Senior Faculty: Lenna Shulga, associate professor of TIM; Shirley M. Lee Research Award for Junior Faculty: Wonbin Sohn, assistant professor of management.
Recognizing Shidler Faculty at the 2025 UH Manoa Awards Ceremony
The 2025 UH M –anoa Awards Ceremony honored faculty, staff and students whose outstanding service and dedication advance the university’s mission of excellence in teaching, research and community impact.
Congratulations to Chris Park, associate professor of accounting, who received the Presidential Citation for Meritorious Teaching. This award recognizes faculty who have made significant and lasting contributions to student learning through exceptional teaching.
We also celebrate Rick Kazman, Danny and Elsa Lui distinguished professor of information technology management who received the prestigious Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Research from the University of Hawai‘i Board of Regents. This honor recognizes faculty whose scholarly work expands the boundaries of knowledge and meaningfully enriches the lives of students and the broader community.
DONOR NEWS
Flores family expands support for Real Estate Lecture Series
Eddie Flores, Jr., BBA ’70, who is the chairman of L&L Drive-Inn/L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, and his wife, Elaine Flores, generously contributed an additional $100,000 to the Eddie Flores Real Estate Endowment in June. This gift ensures the longterm sustainability of the Flores Real Estate Lecture Series, which brings global thought leaders in real estate to Hawai‘i to engage with students and local professionals.
The series was established in 2017 through the Flores’ vision and generosity. As a successful entrepreneur, real estate investor, author and educator, Eddie Flores Jr.’s longstanding goal has been to provide the local community with opportunities to learn from accomplished voices in the real estate industry. This endowment further amplifies Flores’ commitment to real estate education and Shidler College and creates a lasting impact for future generations of students and professionals in Hawai‘i.
Investing in TIM students: Skål Hawai‘i champions travel industry education
Skål International Hawaii established the Skål International Hawai‘i Valerie Davis Memorial Scholarship in May to support students in their junior or senior year at the TIM School. This scholarship is intended to assist with educational costs such as tuition, books and fees.
Founded in 1952, Skål International Hawaii has played a significant role in shaping tourism throughout the islands. As part of Skål International, a global network of travel industry professionals, the Hawai‘i chapter shares in the organization’s mission to promote international tourism and global friendship through professional connections. Known by its motto, “Doing business among friends,” Skål is the only truly international organization representing these values and connecting leaders across the travel industry worldwide.
Giving is at the heart of Shidler College
There are many ways to contribute to Shidler College and every gift matters. Your generous donation ensures that the college can continue performing at a level of excellence while providing students with valuable resources and support to stay on track with their academic and career goals. Please consider making a gift to one of our three funds. shidler.hawaii.edu/alumni/giving-opportunities
Supporting dreams in motion: New EMBA alumni scholarship launched
Jay Voss, EMBA ’79, and fellow members of the first Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) cohort generously established the EMBA Alumni Scholarship at Shidler College in December 2024. This endowed scholarship aims to support nontraditional Executive MBA students who demonstrate financial need, through their self-reported application essay or due to unexpected circumstances.
In Memory of Kenneth T. Matsuura: Opening doors for first-generation students
Diane Matsuura established a scholarship in May to honor her late husband, Kenneth T. Matsuura, BBA ’64, who was a proud first-generation college student. The Kenneth T. Matsuura Endowed Scholarship was created to support undergraduate students at Shidler College who are the first in their family to attend college.
The scholarship reflects the spirit of EMBA’s cohort one—a group of experienced professionals returning to school to enhance their knowledge and skills. Voss’ vision for the scholarship is to empower students who are balancing work, family and community responsibilities while striving to make a meaningful impact in their fields and beyond.
This gift will provide critical support for future leaders seeking to grow their businesses, improve their organizations and strengthen their communities, ensuring that the transformative opportunity of an EMBA remains accessible to those who need it most.
A local boy and public school graduate, Matsuura credited his Shidler education with providing him the opportunity to learn, grow and build meaningful connections that shaped his success in the business community. Through this scholarship, the Matsuura ‘ohana seeks to honor his legacy by paying it forward and empowering the next generation of Hawai‘i’s business leaders. Funds from the scholarship may be used for tuition, books, fees and other costs associated with attendance.
ALUMNI FEATURES with pride
Pitching
Merging business, baseball and giving back
From the pitcher’s mound to the boardroom, Andy Archer, MS ’22, is proving that leadership, impact and aloha can thrive wherever your cleats land. The former University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warrior baseball standout and current pitcher with the wildly popular Savannah Bananas, blends his passion for baseball, a sharp mind for finance and heart for community.
Archer arrived at UH M¯anoa already balancing high expectations—both as a Division I athlete and an aspiring business leader. He recalls that it was the robust offerings of the college, particularly the Master of Science (MSF) program that drew him in.
“I was immediately drawn to Shidler because of the diverse range of master’s degree programs,” Archer said.
“I recognized the opportunity to pursue an elite graduate degree while playing baseball for one of the most competitive collegiate programs in the country—it was an absolute no-brainer.”
As a student at Shidler, Archer immersed himself in team-based learning and real-world applications. An impactful lesson came from a real estate valuation course that inspired him to apply classroom concepts directly to a personal
“Donating the proceeds from my jersey sales is a way for me to help give that same gift—of a Shidler education and UH experience—to more student-athletes. Hopefully it helps keep some of the amazing local talent right here in Hawai‘i.
- Andy Archer
investment. Group projects also helped him sharpen leadership, communication and time-management skills—qualities that continue to serve him on and off the field. Archer says that his most meaningful experiences happened outside of the classroom. Volunteering with Ka Lau O Ka L¯ahui, Archer found himself knee-deep in a lo‘i kalo patch, learning firsthand the values of m¯alama, ‘¯aina and Hawaiian tradition. “Those profound experiences ignited new passions and respect for the ‘¯aina” he says. “They also resulted in valuable connections and networking.”
ALUMNI FEATURES
Archer put his education to use immediately after graduating. Before joining the Savannah Bananas, he worked for two years at Outrigger Hotels and Resorts as a financial planning and analysis analyst. During this time, he also began building his own business.
From finance to fundraising— and fun
These days, Archer plays for the Savannah Bananas—a team famous for blending baseball with entertainment— and combines his finance background and marketing mastery to expand his platform. “Boiled down—my job is to impact people,” he says. “And a huge opportunity to do that is on social media. My business education has had a massive impact on how I’ve approached this aspect of my job—analyzing my target audiences, retention, trends, all of it.”
One of Archer’s proudest off-field accomplishments is his jersey fundraiser, which donates proceeds to support UH student-athletes. “Donating the proceeds from my jersey sales is a way for me to help give that same gift—of a Shidler education and UH experience—to more student-athletes,” he explains. “Hopefully it helps keep some of the amazing local talent right here in Hawai‘i.”
It’s a mindset shaped deeply by his time at UH. “UH is an extremely special place, particularly as a student-athlete, where you are exposed to the community in such a positive way,” Archer said. “UH sports fans are the greatest in the country!”
Now in his second full season with the Savannah Bananas, Archer has embraced mentorship—coaching youth baseball, building leadership through sport and using
every opportunity to invest in the next generation.
“If at the end of my time with the Bananas, the fruit is that more kids are involved in team sports, then I’ve done my job,” he says. “So many of my most treasured memories and valuable lessons came from team sports. That’s what I want to give back.”
For current Shidler students and UH athletes, Archer offers simple but powerful advice: try new things. “Particularly at UH, there are so many priceless opportunities to get involved in the community,” he says. “You never know what passions might be sparked.”
Looking ahead to his future, Archer is keeping an open mind—and heart. He says that although he’s uncertain of what his next chapter will entail, the foundation he built at Shidler will ground him and the focus will be on youth.
“Whatever is next, my mission of impacting the next generation through sports remains,” he says. “Whether that’s coaching, broadcasting or even returning to Outrigger—I’m not quite sure.”
Whether he’s analyzing real estate investments or choreographing on-field antics with the Bananas, one thing is certain: Archer is leading with purpose, fueled by the values, experiences and community he found at Shidler. Next up, he will be a guest speaker at a joint Shidler and UH Foundation alumni event on Sept. 18 in Seattle.
@archdaddeh24 on Instagram @archdaddy24 on TikTok
Photo courtesy of Fans
First Entertainment.
Leading
with purpose
Alumnus turns education into meaningful impact
Jordan Odo, EMBA ’17, is a proactive leader driven by purpose, innovation and community. These qualities coalesced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when he started a virtual summer internship through the Jordan and Cara Odo Scholarship Foundation with classmate John Doyle, EMBA ’17, and his former colleague Jeff Berlin. Odo describes it as a challenging but rewarding time. The program continued for four more years as the Next Gen Leaders Program, empowering dozens of students with essential leadership skills.
“The overwhelming feedback we received from student interns was that they felt inspired to make a difference in the community and we helped them grow as collaborators and problem-solvers,” Odo reflected.
These days, he wears many hats, including first vice president and compliance associate at American Savings Bank, president of the Jordan & Cara Odo Scholarship Foundation, chair of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s (COCH) Young Professionals (YP) Program and serves as director on the larger COCH board. He also serves as fund development chair and director at Family Promise Hawaii and sits on the U.S.-Japan Council’s Annual Conference Host Committee.
Odo’s time in Shidler’s EMBA program had a big impact on where he stands today and for him, the people were the most valuable part of his experiences. He says the program was the driving force in transforming a young attorney into a multifaceted changemaker.
From law to leadership
When he entered the EMBA program in 2015, Odo was working full-time as
an attorney at a local law firm and had recently started the Jordan & Cara Odo Scholarship Foundation with his wife. He wanted to make a larger impact in his firm and clients and in the community. The program helped him become comfortable with business topics he once avoided, like finance and strategy. He says that his foundation in those early days was his “educational laboratory.”
The foundation was part side project and part passion. From its humble beginnings in 2014, the organization has now awarded more than $85,000 in scholarships to students thanks to the generosity of donors and hard work of volunteers. Odo’s long-term vision for the organization is to have a lasting impact on Hawai‘i through empowering the next generation of leaders.
“One day, I hope to see more thoughtful, action-oriented civic discourse in Hawai‘i, so we–as a community–can solve problems quickly and not have them linger for years,” he said. “I have a lot of faith that our young people can pave the way.”
“The best way to learn is by diving in, making mistakes and improving along the way.”
-
Jordan Odo
Odo became the new chair of the YP Program in July, an organization with more than 500 members that he’s been a member of since 2018. In this role, he is helping expand the organization’s focus on civic engagement and leadership development. The program recently launched YP Onward Hawaii, a nine-month
fellowship that explores key local industries through site visits and roundtable discussions. In October, the third annual Cost of Living Summit will examine solutions to the state’s affordability challenges. The program is also growing its reach through volunteer committees, including a neighbor island one and a new emerging technologies subcommittee.
For someone as busy and involved as Odo, balance must come into play. His philosophy for juggling such a packed schedule involves integration. For him, this involves continuity across the areas of his life–including his professional life, community service and life with family and friends–and is based on values.
“It’s easier to get things accomplished if your core values run through the various aspects of your life,” he said.
odoscholarship.org
Moving
what matters
Navigating with heart across Hawai‘i
As the director of human resources at Young Brothers, Shannon Lum, BS ’12, MHRM ’17, doesn’t just manage teams— she connects people, communities and purpose across the Hawaiian Islands. With a deep belief in compassionate leadership and a foundation built at Shidler College, she’s helping move what matters most in Hawai‘i.
In her statewide role, Lum keeps the company’s mission to connect communities– not just cargo– at top of mind as she visits the neighbor islands. Her role encompasses working with employees, union leaders and local stakeholders. Early in her career, Lum says that she was focused on efficiency and outcomes, checking boxes and hitting deadlines. These days, her perspective has changed and she’s guided by the values of empathy, accountability and integrity.
“Over time, I’ve learned that impactful leadership comes from supporting and empowering others,” she said. “It’s not about having all the answers but creating space for others to grow, speak up and lead,” she said.
Lum says a big part of her evolution came after becoming a mother to 3-yearold Emi. Her daughter has taught her that being a role model to a child strengthens her as a leader across all areas of her life. She now understands the influence that home and work have on each other, and this awareness reminds her to lead with grace, flexibility and humanity.
Lum earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Shidler and says that her time at the TIM School helped her to see systems and service from a broader lens. Later in graduate school, her time in the Master of Human Resource Management helped her to pivot into human resources leadership.
Lessons from the field
Mentorship was a big part of Lum’s college experience. Her professor, Marie Kumabe, saw the potential in her before she did. Kumabe encouraged her to pursue her master’s and later to return home to Hawai‘i after she moved to the U.S. mainland for a job with Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The two women share a love of softball, which strengthened their bond and Kumabe continues to be a mentor to Lum today.
“Her support gave me clarity during uncertain times and her wisdom continues to shape how I show up as a leader,” she said. “I’m incredibly grateful for her presence in my life and career.”
As a student-athlete, Lum had long days on campus and her time was split between athletics and academics. Time management and perspective were of utmost importance as she struck
wins alone, and success is a team effort. Lum says that with her long days, having structure helped her to build discipline and resilience. She also learned to ask for help and rely on mentors, which is a habit she took with her into the workforce.
Lum shares that Young Brothers is a company that believes in investing in Hawai‘i’s future. Since 2006, in partnership with Saltchuck Giving Hawai‘i, the company has funded scholarships at Shidler College, UH’s College of Engineering and Honolulu Community College, with more than $562,000 awarded to students.
“Supporting higher education means creating opportunity,” she said. “It means ensuring that local students have a pathway to thrive right here at home.”
If Lum could go back in time and give some advice to her younger self, she would tell that young woman to say “yes” to what excites her and remind her that she’s more than capable. She would also remind her college self of something everyone can pull from.
“Trust yourself and the path you’re on, even if it’s not perfectly clear. You’re more capable than you realize—and your story is still being written.
-Shannon Lum
youngbrothershawaii.com
ALUMNI SNAPSHOTS
1 | FORE THE FUTURE: ALUMNI TEE OFF A NEW CHAPTER
The Shidler Alumni Association hosted its annual meeting on June 25 at the newly opened Aya Golf Lounge. The evening welcomed incoming director Kelli Chinen, BBA ’22, and celebrated the induction of new executive officers: Landon Beers, BBA ’07, as president; Kelly Vea, BBA ’18, as vice president; Michelle Dang, BBA ’16, as treasurer; Reid Hinaga, BBA ’06, as immediate past president; and Nina Buenconsejo, BS ’07, MBA ’14, as secretary. A heartfelt mahalo was also extended to outgoing directors Brandon Chu, BS ’08, and Billy Wu,
BBA ’
12,
for their dedicated service. Nearly 70 alumni and friends came together for a vibrant evening of networking, ono food, golf simulators and karaoke.
2 | GLOBAL TIES IN ASIA
Shidler College hosted two alumni mixers in Tokyo and Hong Kong in April, bringing together nearly 100 students, alumni and friends. Joined by Dean Vance Roley and PACE Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama, the events featured updates from campus—including news about PACE and the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center— and highlighted the reach of the college’s global network.
3 | CONNECTING THE TIM ’OHANA
The TIM Alumni Association, along with faculty, staff, students and alumni, gathered for an engaging evening at The Modern Honolulu, a Hilton Vacation Club known for its sleek, light-filled spaces and curated contemporary design. Guests enjoyed an intimate setting complemented by delicious pupu and a Hawaiian sunset and caught up with old friends and made new connections.
4 | MENTOR NETWORK
The Shidler Alumni Association successfully launched the fourth cohort of its 2025 Flagship Executive Mentoring
We want to showcase you on #FeatureFriday!
Program (EMERG) with a kickoff event on April 4 at the Halekulani Garden Terrace. Mentors and mentees came together for an evening of connection, inspiration and meaningful conversation, setting the stage for another impactful year of leadership development and alumni engagement. Mahalo to all who joined in person to welcome this year’s cohort. The evening was filled with energy, purpose and the promise of lasting mentorship relationships.
The college celebrated the completion of its Shidler Global Leaders (SGL) and Recent Alumni Mentorship Programs (RAMP) in May with a lively gathering at Aloha Beer Kaka‘ako. The event marked
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 with us so we can spotlight the great news on a future post.
To share alumni announcements, email Bianca Mordasini at bianca.mordasini@uhfoundation.org
the culmination of months of impactful mentor-mentee relationships focused on career planning and personal growth. Representatives Sean Scott, BBA ’23, (RAMP) and Emily Irvine (SGL) shared heartfelt reflections on how the programs shaped their academic and professional paths. Mahalo to all mentors and participants for your dedication and support in cultivating the next generation of Shidler leaders through mentorship, guidance and meaningful connection.
5 | DINNER WITH THE DEAN
Shidler College held its Dean’s Dinner at Canterbury Kitchen in March. Alongside Dean Vance Roley, the evening brought
together 40 participants from the Shidler Transformational Acceleration Program (STAP) and the Recent Alumni Mentorship Program (RAMP). The evening centered on mentorship, professional growth and meaningful conversation. Through guided rotations, alumni mentors and mentees exchanged advice, shared experiences and expanded their networks. Special thanks to Toby Tamaye, BBA ’95, Kathleen Racoma, Marisol Willson, Kristie Lo, BS ’01, Kayleigh Coyne, and Tyson Yamada, BBA ’03, MBA ’07, for their support.
CLASS NOTES
Put a Ring on It
We’re thrilled to celebrate two special couples — one newly engaged and one newly wed. Congratulations on this exciting chapter in your lives!
Christine Shimomura, BBA ’17, MHRM ’21, and Vance Hiroshige, BBA ’14, were engaged in Kyoto, Japan in January.
Alyssa Waki, BBA ’17, and Avi Singh were married on March 15 at Sugar Beach Events in Kihei, Maui.
Levitating for Dua Lipa
United by their shared love for pop sensation Dua Lipa, Addie Ortiz, BBA ’21, MS ’22; Christine Quach, BBA ’19; and UH alumna Leigh Ann Shiroma, embarked on the ultimate girls’ trip across the globe to New Zealand and Melbourne, Australia where Dua Lipa launched her world tour in March.
Alyssa Waki, BBA ’17
Vance Hiroshige, BBA ’14; Christine Shimomura, BBA ’17, MHRM ’21
Christine Quach, BBA ’19; Addie Ortiz, BBA ’21, MS ’22
CLASS NOTES
Appointments and Promotions
Seth Addison, BBA ’23, was hired as an audit associate at Accuity.
JJ Bernardo, BBA ’22, was promoted to people operations and talent specialist at Accuity LLP.
Michelle Dang, BBA ’16, has been promoted to audit senior manager at Deloitte.
Katherine Ho, BBA ’24, was hired as gift and data processing associate at the University of Hawai‘i Foundation.
Matthew Kodama, BBA ’05, MBA ’19, joins the University of Hawai‘i Foundation as planning and development manager.
Natalie Kwon, BBA ’22, was appointed market research associate with Anthology FINN Partners.
Dayna Matsumoto, BBA ’03, was promoted to executive vice president and chief financial officer at Central Pacific Bank.
David Morimoto, BBA ’91, was promoted to vice chair and chief operating officer at Central Pacific Bank.
Christine Quach, BBA ’19, joins Hawaii State Federal Credit Union as a human resources employee relations and engagement professional.
Summer van Praag, BBA ’24, joins the University of Hawai‘i Foundation as development coordinator.
Kelly Vea, BBA ’18, was promoted to vice president at Chaney Brooks.
Other Notable Achievements
Congratulations to Dew-Anne Langcaon, BBA ’85, MAcc ’87, chief executive officer of Vivia Cares, Inc, on expanding her company to Olympia, Washington.
Diane Paloma, MBA ’99, president and CEO of Hawaii Dental Service, has been appointed to the board of directors of both Central Pacific Financial Corp. and its primary subsidiary, Central Pacific Bank.
Congratulations to Anthony Wong, BBA ’83, on celebrating his 40th wedding anniversary!
Hawaii Business 20 for the next 20
A big shout out to Kisan Jo, EMBA ’19 and Liane Sugimoto, BBA ’01 — for their recognition as part of Hawaii Business Magazine’s 20 for the Next 20 Class of 2025.
Hawaii Venture Capital Association Hawaii Entrepreneur Awards
Congratulations to Billy Pieper, MBA ’04 — Corporate Intrapreneur of the Year; Johnny Chankhamany, BBA ’07, MS ’21 — Investor of the Year; and Ian Kitajima, BBA ’89 — Startup Paradise Champion, who were celebrated at the Hawaii Venture Capital Association’s Entrepreneur Awards in March.
Pacific Business News 40 Under 40
We celebrate Nicole Cacal, BBA ’11; Kyson Morikuni, MBA ’15; and Jared Higashi, BBA ’03 — named to Pacific Business News’ 2025 40 Under 40 list.
Pacific Business News Power Leaders 2025
We applaud Jay Ana, BBA ’98; Daniel Chun, BS ’02; Diane Paloma, MBA ’99; and Peter Savio, BBA ’70 — recognized as 2025 Power Leaders by Pacific Business News.
Women Who Mean Business 2025
Standout female alumnae Susan Yamada, BBA ’82 (Career Achievement Award); Sherri Okinaga, BBA ’89; Del Mochizuki, BBA ’09; Liane Khim, BBA ’99; Lynn Miyahira, MBA ’10; and Liane Sugimoto, BBA ’01 — were recognized as 2025 Women Who Mean Business by Pacific Business News.
Jay
Ana, BBA ’98
Meet David Morimoto, BBA ’ 91, vice chairman and chief operating officer for Central Pacific Bank (CPB). His responsibilities include leading customer growth and success, and building new customer relationships. Prior to his current position, he served as the chief financial officer of Central Pacific Financial Corp. and Central Pacific Bank for a decade. He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from the Shidler College of Business and his master’s in business administration from Chaminade University of Honolulu. Morimoto resides in Honolulu with his family.
Tell us about a day at the office.
“I assumed my new role of vice chairman and chief operating officer March 1. Currently, my days are roughly evenly split between internal sales leadership meetings and external meetings with customers and prospective customers. Over time, I’d like to spend more of my day with customers and prospective customers.”
What projects/initiatives are you currently working on?
“I’m fortunate that CPB has a longestablished reputation for providing exceptional customer service. My team and I are focused on deepening relationships with existing customers and introducing CPB’s level of service to banking prospects. To support our sales leadership process, we also are enhancing our customer relationship management system.”
How did your experiences at Shidler prepare you for what was to come?
“Shidler played a key role in my choice of career and prepared me for early
success. I took a finance elective on bank financial management taught by Michael Tanaka that piqued my interest in banking. In my last semester, I took an internship class where I interned at CPB. That class led to me being hired as a management trainee at CPB following my graduation in May 1991.”
What are some of your favorite memories of Shidler?
“Spending time studying with my future wife, Kathy (Naito) Morimoto, BBA ’ 91. Kathy was an accounting major and she helped me survive Accounting 201 and 202.”
What’s your favorite lunch?
“It used to be large plate lunches but not anymore. Today, I usually eat a salad or sandwich.”
What’s your advice for current students?
“Get outside your comfort zone and embrace adversity. Personal growth and learning all occur outside your comfort zone and especially when you are challenged. If you want to
accelerate your career, seek out those growth opportunities.”
What do you do to relax/destress?
“I like to play golf, go to the gym or walk the neighborhood hill.”
What’s your favorite activity outside of the office?
“Golf! I like the individual challenge of improving your play, combined with the social aspect of spending time with friends and new acquaintances.”
Morimoto and his wife, Kathy, and their daughters, Kira and Jill, at Jill’s graduation from Santa Clara University this summer.
Whether it’s collaborating with local businesses or giving back to our community, we believe in the power of people—and we live that belief every day. Since opening our doors in 1994, ProService Hawaii has been on an entrepreneurial journey of our own—growing from a small office in Kailua-Kona to one of Hawai‘i’s most successful companies. Today, we serve over 3,000 local businesses and support more than 50,000 employees across the state.
That purpose drives everything we do, and it deeply resonates with our team—including many proud Shidler College of Business alumni—who are passionate about using their skills to create meaningful impact here at home. At ProService, we value our employees and build careers. Our Employee Promise is rooted in freedom to grow, making your mark, and being part of a PROhana of amazing people.
Through mentorship, development programs, and community volunteering, our employees are empowered to lead, learn, and make a difference. Whether it’s collaborating with local businesses or giving back to our community, we believe in the power of people—and we live that belief every day.
ProService Hawaii
Analyst; Shannel Cabuhat, BBA ’18, Accounting Specialist; Sui Ling Kwong, BBA ’14, Lead Accountant, Operational Accounting;
Kalene Garcia, BBA ’18, Team Lead; Ryan Hanscam, BBA ’18, Implementation Manager; Keri Yokoyama, BBA ’ 22, Marketing Coordinator
Left to right: Tracey Ma, BBA ’13, Platform Configuration Analyst; Kendra Viernes, BBA ’18, Business Analyst; Liqi Huang, BBA ’ 20, Pricing