Graduate students in the (DPHS) at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹ enrolled in are helping tackle some of Â鶹´«Ã½¡¯s most pressing health challenges, including issues related to maternal health, cultural responsiveness in data collection and fall prevention. Their community-engaged research was recently highlighted at the department¡¯s annual Hōʻike (exhibit) in December.
Modeled after a professional academic conference, the Hōʻike, now in its 10th year, highlights student projects developed through partnerships with community organizations. Students work in teams to translate health promotion theory into practice¡ªbuilding relationships, conducting interviews, analyzing qualitative data and sharing findings grounded in community perspectives.
Guided by faculty Jane Chung-Do and David Stupplebeen, students collaborate directly with local partners to address pressing public health priorities.
“Student projects like these help connect students with the community, provide meaningful contributions to the work of community-based organizations, and help perpetuate the vision and mission of the Department of Public Health Sciences,” said Stupplebeen.
Partnerships that make an impact
The community partners of the Fall 2025 semester included ,, , and . Student projects examined a wide range of topics from factors related to delayed prenatal care among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women to coalition engagement in fall prevention efforts and expanding training pathways for Native Hawaiian healthcare practitioners.
For many students, the Hōʻike marked their first formal research presentation, strengthening skills in collaboration, analysis and professional dissemination.
“Having the opportunity to work so closely with a community of practice allowed me to uplift their values during this project, all while reflecting on my own position as a researcher,” said Shanda Shamela Delos Reyes, a graduate student in the course. “The hōʻike itself was a practice of reciprocation, allowing us to share the community’s data back to them.”
“This invaluable learning opportunity is made possible by the dedication of our community partners. We are deeply grateful for their tireless service to Â鶹´«Ã½ and for welcoming our students into their vital work,” said Chung-Do.
“The students approached the project with diligence and professionalism, and delivered valuable data that will guide us in designing and implementing effective interventions for our members and the broader community,” said Lucie Tam, clinical coordinator, Quality & Performance Improvement, Quality Management at HMSA. “We look forward to partnering again on future initiatives!”
The Hōʻike reflects DPHS¡¯ continued commitment to experiential learning, community engagement and advancing health equity statewide.