University of �鶹��ý–West Oʻahu students will gain firsthand experience in video production and content creation through an innovative partnership with ʻŌlelo Community Media—a nonprofit with a mission to create, collect, curate and share stories by �鶹��ý, for �鶹��ý, to �鶹��ý.

A newly signed memorandum of agreement offers students internships in camera operations, editing and field production on ʻŌlelo projects, helping build a skilled local workforce. The collaboration includes training, mentorship and content creation, equipping participants with valuable media and communication skills aligned with community needs.

“This partnership with ʻŌlelo brings together our program’s strength in preparing students through a dynamic, industry-relevant curriculum with ʻŌ�������’s deep commitment to community storytelling—creating a pathway where students gain hands-on experience while both organizations stay responsive to the evolving needs of �鶹��ý’s media landscape,” said UH West Oʻahu Academy for Creative Media (ACM) Director Sharla Hanaoka.

Alumnus advanced agreement

Student internships are scheduled to begin in 2026. Under the guidance of ʻŌlelo professionals, students will create projects ranging from health awareness PSAs to storytelling on sustainability, with access to both ʻŌlelo and ACM facilities and equipment.

The agreement was coordinated in part by UH West Oʻahu alumnus Gabriel Peters, now ʻŌ�������’s community engagement coordinator.

“As a proud graduate of UH West Oʻahu’s Creative Media program, I’ve always believed in its potential to shape the next generation of storytellers and content creators,” Peters said. “Reconnecting with (Hanaoka) at the new building’s grand opening in 2022 sparked the idea for this partnership. We saw a chance to create real-world opportunities for students—ones that not only help build their portfolios but also connect them with industry professionals and networks that are vital in any career path.”

The partners are also eyeing potential expansion across other ʻŌlelo Community Media enterprises.

Chris Lee, founder of the (ACM System), has been named emeritus faculty by University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel. Lee served as director of ACM for more than two decades. He led the UH ACM initiative, which spans all 10 campuses and continues to empower students to pursue careers in digital storytelling, with a strong emphasis on Indigenous narratives rooted in �鶹��ý. Reflecting the state’s unique cultural diversity, ACM is the first majority Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander media school in the country.

Now, the Hollywood veteran is stepping down, leaving a legacy that expanded �鶹��ý’s creative pipeline and opened doors for homegrown storytellers and creators.

Lee said, “There are so many people to mahalo for this honor. I am so grateful to the 2004 Board of Regents, which originally approved ACM as a system-wide initiative, key alumni like Roy and Hilda Takeyama who gave generously to both start and sustain us, legislators and governors who financially supported the build out of the program across the islands, the local production industry that has embraced our students, our exceptional faculty and, most of all, our talented graduates who are driving �鶹��ý’s growing and vital creative economy.”

Under Lee’s leadership, the ACM System launched UH ����ԴDz� ACM (now known as the ), , , and program. It also supported the creation of at UH West Oʻahu, UH Esports, and collaborated with UH ����ԴDz�’s (ICS) department to develop . Lee enhanced existing media programs at , , �鶹��ý CC, , and .

Many of them are earning a living doing what they love, right here in �鶹��ý, telling their stories to the broadest possible audience. That was always the goal.
—Chris Lee

Uniquely, ACM fostered the first comprehensive articulation agreements between all seven community colleges and UH West Oʻahu, where Lee also led the development and funding of ACM’s state-of-the-art Student Production Center.

“Chris Lee’s foundational leadership and contributions have catalyzed creative media education across the UH System and elevated �鶹��ý’s stories to a broader audience,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “Drawing from his groundbreaking career in Hollywood, he helped build a thriving creative pipeline here at home. We thank him for his decades of service and are proud to honor him with emeritus status for his lasting influence at UH and our state.”

• Tributes and reflections on Chris Lee and his legacy at UH

A systemwide vision

Raised in �鶹��ý and an alumnus of ʻIolani School, Lee graduated from Yale University before starting a successful career as a motion picture executive and film and television producer. The first person of Asian ancestry to lead a major Hollywood studio, serving as President of Production at TriStar Pictures and Columbia Pictures, he oversaw iconic films such as Jerry Maguire, Philadelphia, As Good As It Gets and more.

After returning to �鶹��ý in the early 2000s, Lee was invited to “start a film school” at UH. He imagined a cross-campus network that could elevate creative media education statewide.

“Rather than just focusing on one campus at ����ԴDz�, I visited every campus in the UH System,” Lee said. “I met with faculty, staff and students and saw what already existed, including the animation program at Kapiʻolani CC and the TV studios at Leeward CC, and thought, ‘What if we built something that connected all of them?’”

In January, 2004, the UH Board of Regents formally established ACM, and Lee became its Founding Director. Over time, the initiative grew into a coordinated system offering specialized pathways in creative media, animation, gaming and digital content creation.

Empowering students and communities

At UH West Oʻahu, now the flagship for ACM, students can now pursue degrees in creative media, game design, communications and more. UH ����ԴDz�’s School of Cinematic Arts focuses on narrative filmmaking, animation and Indigenous storytelling. The community colleges and UH Hilo offer strong foundations in production, media theory and animation.

“What made this possible was the advent of affordable digital technology,” Lee said. “Thanks to early support from donors and UH alumni, including Roy and Hilda Takayama and Jay Shidler, we gave students a ‘Digital Toolbelt’—Macs with editing software, cameras and sound equipment. It let them tell stories that were true to themselves and shareable with the world through online platforms.”

Creating an industry pathway

From the start, Lee emphasized that ACM wasn’t just about making films. “It was about preparing a workforce that could thrive in the future digital economy, in storytelling, animation, games, immersive media and beyond,” he said. Today ACM graduates from every UH campus are driving �鶹��ýʻs growing creative economy.

Many of those early students have gone on to make significant contributions to film and television, including Daniel Ledoux Miller, co-director and co-writer of Moana 2; Bryson Kainoa Chun, a writer for Moana 2 and Doogie Kamealoha, M.D., who, along with fellow UH alumnus Alika Tengan, was named to the inaugural Indigenous List recognizing top Native screenwriters.

ACM graduates work for Pixar, Disney, HBO, NBC and Netflix, but most have stayed in �鶹��ý to build production companies or lead communications teams in sectors far beyond entertainment.

“Every business now wants an in-house videographer and social media content,” Lee said. “While graduates from UH �Ѳ��ԴDz�’s ACM like Christopher Makoto Yogi and Alika Tengan debuted their features at the Sundance Film Festival, students coming out of UH West Oʻahu are making TikTok capstones and going on to run campaigns for companies like BMW/Mini and even Honolulu City Hall.”

A hub for the future

The $37-million ACM Student Production Center at UH West Oʻahu opened in 2022 and has already become a hub for content creation, film and student collaboration. Adjacent to the facility is the proposed site of a state-of-the-art motion picture and television studio, currently under development.

The project, spearheaded by the Island Film Group team in partnership with UH, will include modern sound stages, production facilities, and a town square with live-work, retail, dining and lodging. The studio is envisioned as a transformative center for the West Oʻahu region and the state’s growing media industry.

“This is the natural next step in ACM’s evolution,” Lee said. “Combined with the UHWO Student Production Center, this complex will help elevate ACM to a global level. One of the project requirements is integration with ACM, which means our local students will have real opportunities—paid internships, mentorship and jobs with living wages.”

Driving innovation across the UH

Even as he steps back, Lee is helping guide ACM’s evolution through new initiatives. Most recently, he has been actively involved with the Aloha AI Institute, a proposed UH initiative that, like ACM System, aims to unite all 10 �鶹��ýcampuses. The project will equip students with the tools and opportunities to explore AI’s role in creative fields, particularly in integrating Indigenous knowledge and cultural narratives.

Lee also helped create a new computational creative media degree at UH ����ԴDz� ICS, launched in fall 2024, which prepares students to use AI tools in video games, animation and digital content. His push into esports led to �鶹��ý’s largest tournament in 2024, the �鶹��ý Esports Invitational, hosted at UH West Oʻahu. The event brought together six UH campuses, out-of-state universities such as Michigan State, and local high schools, showcasing how ACM initiatives are preparing students for future careers while supporting economic diversification.

A lasting impact

ACM’s transformation into a nationally recognized, culturally grounded media school stands as part of Lee’s enduring legacy—one that elevates �鶹��ý’s stories and storytellers on the global stage.

“Everybody hopes they leave someplace better than how they found it,” Lee said. “Now we have hundreds of ACM graduates. Many of them are earning a living doing what they love, right here in �鶹��ý, telling their stories to the broadest possible audience. That was always the goal.”

Reflections on Chris Lee

More than 900 people attended the , March 22 and 23 at the University of �鶹��ý–West Oʻahu Academy for Creative Media (ACM) Facility. The esports event brought together collegiate teams from the continental U.S. and �鶹��ý, including six UH campuses.

The �鶹��ý Esports Invitational welcomed players from Boise State University and Michigan State University, who battled against local teams from UH Hilo, UH ����ԴDz� and UH West Oʻahu; Kapiʻolani, Kauaʻi and Leeward Community Colleges; Chaminade University; and �鶹��ý Pacific University. Players competed in “Valorant,” a tactical shooter game, and “Super Smash Bros.,” a platform fighter game.

The event was organized by Vanta, an inclusive youth esports platform and league that educates and inspires future esports leaders. High schools also competed, bringing out their “Valorant” teams to showcase their skills in front of potential scouts.

“The turnout far exceeded previous years, with players, families, and friends coming together from across the United States to celebrate esports in �鶹��ý,” said Paul Todkill, Vanta director of marketing.

�鶹��ý Esports Invitational overall winners:

• High school “Valorant” champions: McKinley High School
• Collegiate “Valorant” champions: Boise State University
• Open “Super Smash Bros.” competition: Rydra – Michigan State University
• Collegiate “Super Smash Bros.” crews battle: Michigan State University

UH Esports Systems Leadership and Student Summit

UH ����ԴDz� came in second place in the collegiate “Super Smash Bros.” crews battle and third in “Valorant.” In addition to the tournament, UH ����ԴDz� Esports Program Director Nyle Sky Kauweloa highlighted the first-ever UH Esports Systems Leadership and Student Summit, which was hosted on March 21. The purpose of the summit was to share ideas, stories and histories of each club/team on the individual campuses. According to Kauweloa, the goal was to forge greater collaboration among UH campuses. The group also discussed a long-term plan for the UH Esports system as a whole, which included seeking more advisory support and rotating the UH Esports System tournament to other campuses.

Create(x), LAVA

The �鶹��ý Esports Invitational utilized �鶹��ýWest Oʻahu’s Create(x) lab, which features immersive visualization environments such as a projection system that projects onto three walls and the floor for various augmented virtual environments. Create(x) and UH ����ԴDz�’s Laboratory for Advanced Visualization and Applications, also known as LAVA, are some of the resources for students in the new and the . These programs are specifically designed to equip students with the skills to merge creative media with computing, preparing them for careers in fields such as video game development, movie special effects, digital media installations, museum exhibits, theme park design and digital marketing.

From yoga in outer space to interactive star-gazing, University of �鶹��ý students created innovative and fun new virtual and augmented reality experiences through a class collaboration between the UH ����ԴDz�’s (ICS) Department and the UH (ACM System).

The Creative Computational Media course allowed students to develop interactive and immersive experiences showcased in global exhibits such as Beyond Van Gogh, Beyond Monet, Disney Immersive and TeamLab Borderless.

“Even though these immersive experiences might seem like entertainment—which is a thriving industry—they teach valuable techniques for communicating complex data or ideas to broad audiences,” said ICS Professor Jason Leigh, who co-developed the course. “This is crucial for success as a scientist or engineer, as these experiences convey information in a visceral way, making it deeply felt and believed. In fact, we’re currently collaborating on projects with the Waikīkī Aquarium, NASA and the �鶹��ý State Energy Office.”

More than 30 undergraduate and graduate students from multiple UH campuses joined the semester-long course taught at UH ����ԴDz� and UH West Oʻahu’s state-of-the-art ACM Create(x) Lab—the only place in the state where students can access the necessary cutting-edge equipment, expertise and hands-on training in developing augmented reality (AR) applications, virtual reality (VR) environments and interactive projection-mapped experiences.

In about a month, student teams conceptualized ideas, and designed and developed prototypes for their immersive experiences. Projects included:

• Stargaze: A stunning and technically complex immersive projection experience tracing constellations across different cultures, including Native Hawaiian, Inuit, Japanese and Korean perspectives.
• Yoga in space: A pioneering project exploring the potential for immersive environments to new environments to support and enhance yoga practices.
• Fit the wall: A simple but dynamic video game where players must physically move their bodies to fit through holes in oncoming walls.
• Fantasy wonderland: A whimsical, interactive experience transporting users to a magical world of fantasy and wonder.
• Sparkles: A fantasy flower garden experience where users can interact with sparkles through movement.

“This was the first computer class that was more art and creative driven,” said Katelyn Sung, a junior creative computational media major. “It was interesting and fun. It opens up a lot of different aspects of what you can do in the computer science field other than just being a software engineer.”

Paving the way to the future

The class has not only allowed students to experiment with new technologies but also paved the way for future projects and collaborations. The Waikīkī Aquarium has already tapped into this innovative field by commissioning past students’ work to create immersive exhibits for their own visitors.

“This course highlights the importance of interdisciplinary learning, the relevance of combining creativity with technical skills, and is a shining example of the University of �鶹��ý’s commitment to preparing students for the future in emerging technologies like AI and digital media,” said Vassilis L. Syrmos, UH System vice president for research and innovation.

This course is part of a new Creative Computational Media concentration within the ICS �ٱ�貹���ٳ���Գ�’s BS/BA degree program. This program is specifically designed to equip students with the skills to merge creative media with computing, preparing them for careers in fields such as video game development, movie special effects, digital media installations, museum exhibits, theme park design and digital marketing. For more information about the concentration and department, .

Student-developed Indigenous data visualization projects took center stage at the University of �鶹��ý–West Oʻahu on September 27. The Indigenous Data Hub Fellows ��ōʻ�����, hosted by the (OIKI), showcased innovative works blending ancestral knowledge with modern data visualization.

Five students from and participated in the inaugural “Indigenous Data Hub Fellows” program, where they learned an equitable community-centered co-design practice, collaborated on place-based data visualization projects relevant to the Hawaiian community, and took advantage of the high-tech resources in the Create(x) lab housed in the Academy for Creative Media Building. The lab features immersive visualization environments such as a projection system that projects onto three walls and the floor for various augmented virtual environments.

“As a Native Hawaiian studying in the data science track at UH ����ԴDz�, this experience has allowed me to integrate the practices of my culture as kānaka ʻō���ɾ� with the knowledge and skill set of a computer scientist, nurturing two critical parts of my identity,” said undergraduate student Shaelyn Loo. “It has been a transformative journey that has shaped my personal and professional growth in ways I never expected.”

OIKI Director Kamuela Enos said the Indigenous data hub’s goal is to provide contemporary data visualization technology to community practitioners to allow them to show the impact of their work, while training youth that live in their community the fundamentals of both ancestral and contemporary sciences.

“Our intention with this project is to equitably engage with both regional community organizations and students in pairing the ancestral sciences and technologies that have allowed our ancestors to be self-sufficient for millennia with contemporary technologies,” Enos said. “The Indigenous data hub model focuses on four key components: a named geography, the ancestral practices that still exist within that geography, the community organizations that are still holding on to these practices in that geography, and the next generation learners that live within that geography.”

Mapping, sailing, restoring

The students worked on three projects:

• Moʻolelo Mapper—An immersive visualization project intended to augment a classroom with illustrations to weave together place, story and ways to investigate lessons passed on from ancestors. This is in collaboration with Kumu Uʻi Keliʻikuli from Leeward CC.
• Hoʻokele Table—An augmented visualization table intended to supplement the curriculum around designing sail plans for non-instrumental navigation. The simulation allows for students to become familiar with the natural phenomena that need to be taken into account while navigation on the open ocean. This is in collaboration with Kumu Kekai Lee from Leeward CC.
• Kipuka o Kahinahina—An augmented visualization table intended to share the story of the restoration of kālua mahi (sinkholes) in Kalaeloa. These kālua mahi were originally used for agriculture, and archaeologist and kumu hula Ulukoa Duhaylonsod along with other community volunteers are restoring this practice to propagate and preserve endangered endemic species of plants such as ʻEwa Hinahina. The table visualizes observation data from the site over time.

“Working with these talented students has been incredibly rewarding,” said Create(x) Director Kari Noe. “Learning how to equitably co-design data science tools, visualization software, and any technology with community partners and faculty is a critical skill and practice, but it is challenging. These students have a passion to learn these skills to be able to create projects that will bring a positive impact to their communities. I’m happy we are able to give them the space to.”

Students also learned skills from mentors such as ��ū��ʻ�� Zane, Solomon Enos and Mikiʻala Lidstone who advised the fellows and taught them about Indigenous design, creative practice and community-centered design, respectively.

Along with Loo, other students who participated include Austin Cataluna (Leeward CC, engineering), Halaʻi Napulehua (Leeward CC, computer sciences), Leilehua Kila (Leeward CC, Hawaiian studies) and Kieren McKee (UH ����ԴDz�, digital media).

The intention of the Indigenous Data Hub project is to expand its network to other locations around the state to provide access to this kind of programming to local students, starting with Leeward CC. The Indigenous Data Hub project was funded in part by the National Science Foundation EPSCoR award 2149133, the Academy for Creative Media System and Abundant Intelligences.

The University of �鶹��ý Academy for Creative Media (ACM) System is offering a unique opportunity for ACM students and faculty across all 10 campuses to engage with the film industry through the 44th annual presented by Halekulani (HIFF). The highly anticipated festival opens on October 3, and ACM participants are encouraged to register for free tickets and passes, courtesy of the .

The HIFFxACM Accelerator is designed to help budding filmmakers and creative media students make critical connections within the industry while furthering their own professional and creative goals. The exclusive ACM pass offers free admission to five HIFF44 premiere screenings, access to industry panels, and invitations to special presentations at UH West Oʻahu, including screenings of renowned films.

Said ACM System Founder and Director Chris Lee, “We’re so excited to partner for a second year in the HIFF x ACM Accelerator program. Already, over 400 students and faculty from across the UH System have signed up for the free tickets and we’re going to keep the registration open through the Festival.”

Boba Fett, special screenings

One of the festival’s highlights is the in-person appearance of Star Wars actor Temuera Morrison at UH West Oʻahu on October 16, for a screening of . The event will be followed by a special presentation of , a documentary celebrating Hawaiian cultural icons, such as ʻIolani Luahine and Sonny Chillingworth, featuring precious images out of the campus’ premiere archive,

Beyond screenings, ACM students can dive deeper into the festival through networking events like the Cinema and Media Mentor program, and HIFF’s Metaverse, which connects them with media professionals globally. These opportunities expand their exposure to the broader film and media industries, helping them explore career paths beyond the classroom.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the University of �鶹��ý Academy for Creative Media through the HIFFxACM Accelerator program. This initiative has proven wildly popular and impactful for students and professors alike, providing our talented ACM participants with invaluable access to the festival and fostering vital connections within the film industry. HIFF is excited to support the next generation of filmmakers as they explore their creative potential and engage with the rich tapestry of international cinema,” said Beckie Stocchetti, HIFFexecutive director.

The HIFFxACM Accelerator program aims to empower students through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of international cinema. HIFF continues its mission to promote cultural exchange among the people of Asia, the Pacific, and North America while advancing film literacy and career development for �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ��’s emerging filmmakers.

ACM System supports 16 different programs across all 10 UH campuses.

The limited edition Moore Aloha Surfboard tin and decal—designed by University of �鶹��ý–West Oʻahu student Harper Okamoto—are now available for purchase, with 100% of net proceeds being donated to the and the Moore Aloha Foundation. The art was inspired by pro surfer and Olympic gold medalist Carissa Moore’s .

The products launched in September with a celebration at Honolulu Cookie Company’s Hyatt Regency Waikiki location. The special signing event featured both Okamoto—a spring 2024 graduate who earned her bachelor of arts in creative media with a concentration in design and media—and Moore—surfing’s first Olympic gold medalist and five-time world surfing champion. The cookie tin and decal can be found in or .

“I was inspired by the bright colors that are associated with Carissa’s brand and I wanted to incorporate some of those because they are so fun and friendly,” Okamoto said. “For Honolulu Cookie Company, I used simple shapes to represent their message to warmly welcome anyone that comes to the islands and buys their product. I wanted to use something that gave the impression of the aloha spirit, but in a way that would get the message across to anyone even if they don’t speak the languages here.”

Okamoto’s winning design was the result of Honolulu Cookie Company teaming up with the UH West Oʻahu Creative Media program for a student packaging design contest.

For more visit .

—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

The at the University of Hawaii–West Oʻahu (ACMWO) has created a plan to use creative media as a gateway to engage underrepresented students in STEM concepts—a significant step toward supporting the National Science Foundation’s initiative.

The plan was developed by Sharla Hanaoka, ACMWO director, and Brad Ashburn, associate professor of chemistry with the mathematics, natural and health sciences division at UH West Oʻahu.

Next steps

UH West Oʻahu will offer a new Math 100 course, Generative Art and Science, dedicated to the merge of art and math that supports the BPC plan welcoming all students with basic programming proficiency in spring 2025.

“By merging art into STEM fields, we’re not only breaking down barriers that often prevent students from our communities from pursuing computer science, but we’re also fostering creativity and unconventional thinking, preparing a new generation of problem-solvers equipped with both technical know-how and artistic vision for a future where technology and creativity are increasingly intertwined,” Hanaoka said. “This could lead to a more diverse, inclusive and innovative creative technology industry overall.”

Making art with science

Students Dylan Blue and Aina Kodaira—both pursuing a degree in creative media with a concentration in video game design and development—worked with Ashburn as a mentor on a summer research project that Ashburn will talk about in his upcoming course.

Blue and Kodaira presented their project, “Exploring Emergence with Cellular Automata,” at the UH West Oʻahu Student Research Experience Summer Symposium on August 9 at the Campus Center multi-purpose room. The project challenged them to combine software engineering, science, and design to build a highly interactive web application that generates complex patterns.

“We created an algorithm that creates different patterns; that’s how we blended technology with art,” Blue said. “This is significant because we don’t really see that happening too much, right? There’s always a distinct line between the field of science and creative media. …Being in a place where we havenʻt been before is pretty exciting.”

Both students plan this fall semester to take Ashburn’s new Generative Art and Science class, in which students will level up their creativity through hands-on computer programming, design and engineering projects.

“Many approaches to integrating the arts in STEM involve making art about science, but our approach is to make art with science,” Ashburn said.

—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

Read more on .

The esports scene at the University of �鶹��ý took a major leap forward as students from seven UH campuses engaged in friendly competition at the 2024 Kawaii Kon.

Held at the �鶹��ý Convention Center, March 29–31, students from UH ����ԴDz�, UH West Oʻahu, UH Hilo, Leeward Community College, Kapiʻolani CC, Windward CC and Kauaʻi CC participated in a Super Smash Bros. tournament.

“The overall purpose of the Smash tournament is to not only offer students a highly competitive venue for esports, but to also have them experience the larger (and extremely popular) digital games, anime, and cosplay events locally,” said Nyle Sky Kauweloa, UH ����ԴDz� esports program director. “This is not just a tournament, but an entire cultural experience for the students.”

“This was my second time attending the UH collegiate tournament, and it was just as awesome to see all the campuses come together in spirited and friendly competition,” said UH Hilo student Logan Nobriga. “I really appreciated how supportive players were, not just of their own teams, but of the other teams as well. Hilo came and gave it our all, and I’m really grateful our new players had the chance to experience some competition and got to show their skill to the other campuses.”

With more than 20,000 attendees over the three-day event, the success of the UH esports programs were on full display for the Kawaii Kon fans.

“Kapiʻolani‘s debut at the Kawaii Kon tournament was a significant step for our club, having been established just two months prior,” said Adam Moura, Kapiʻolani CC instructor and esports advisor. “It was a great opportunity for growth and learning, and we came away from it inspired to continue developing our skill for future competitions.”

Keala Chock, Leeward CC vice chancellor for academic affairs, added, “For Leeward Community College’s students to be part of systemwide esports events is not just about competition; it’s about fostering a sense of community, collaboration, and innovation among our students, shaping them into well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.”

Continuing collaboration

While the tournament at Kawaii Kon is the one event each year where UH brings together students from several campuses together to compete, organizers hope to increase the collaboration throughout the year. The esports programs would like to acknowledge Southwest Airlines for flying in students from �鶹��ý Island and Kauaʻi, Bank of Hawaii for 3D-printing trophies, Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union for providing scholarships and the Academy for Creative Media System (ACM System) for funding the program.

“Just as ACM System started at UH ����ԴDz� and now supports programs on all 10 UH campuses, my discussions about funding esports with President Lassner six years ago always had the goal of rolling this out to every UH campus that wants to participate,” said Chris Lee, founder and director of ACM System. “I am very grateful to President Lassner who brought on Sky Kauweloa and his team to grow UH Esports to the global powerhouse it is today and even more proud to see so many of our campuses and students engaging through esports.”

More stories on UH’s esports program.

Brian Kohne, a associate professor at the (ACM), has been named County of Maui film commissioner. The award-winning music producer and filmmaker, who grew up on Maui, oversees the Maui County film office and works with film, television, new media and industrial media production companies to cultivate Maui County’s film industry. He started on April 1.

“It is an honor to be named Maui’s new film commissioner, and I will continue to lead Academy for Creative Media and serve as an associate professor with UHMC. We are having so much fun these days returning to in-person instruction—it’s a party I do not want to miss,” said Kohne. “In May, we’ll celebrate our 50th graduate, will soon finish renovation of our primary lecture/lab space, and our talented staff is fully established to implement a dynamic four-degree curriculum in the years to come.”

Kohne has worked in music production with Maui musicians Barefoot Natives and the late Willie K, and he has writing, directing and producing credits for local motion pictures Get a Job and Kuleana. He said his work the past six-years building ACM Maui is the primary reason he took the film office role.

“Our success in establishing media paths from high schools through UHMC and on to four-year degrees or industry has exposed a troublesome fact: Maui still cannot provide predictable, viable paths into the workforce because sustainable industry is lacking. Perhaps the same can be said on other islands,” Kohne said. “After the events of August 2023 on Maui, I am hearing the call to do even more to make a difference in our community and develop the workforce, while also supporting pre-college media education. Island creatives deserve a viable present and future here, at home. We all do. Being a member of our greater UH community is a source of tremendous pride.”

Luana Mahi, the county’s Economic Development Director, praised Kohne and said Maui County’s film, TV and new media industries help diversify �鶹��ý’s economy.

Mahi said, “Highlighting Maui’s local talent is an important part of our past, present and future, and there is no better person than Maui-raised Brian Kohne to help amplify our voice and our stories in a competitive industry.”

brought home gold and silver from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations () annual conference held in Seattle in March. The recognition for outstanding achievements in design and communication was significant, given the competition among more than 1,500 entries from 210 community and technical colleges across the country.

“This is big news for our campus, and the University of �鶹��ý Community College system!” said Bonnie J. Beatson, Windward CC marketing communications director, who accepted both awards.”I am so proud of the talent we have on our campus.”

The gold Paragon Award was in the social media post category for which was filmed and edited by alumnus Nakoa Camvel. Camvel, who is also a graduate of Academy for Creative Media, is a media specialist and teaches a social media class at Windward CC.

The silver Paragon Award was in the computer-generated illustration category for the “The Korean Triplets Stars” illustration for an online Imaginarium Star Show created by students Alex Daraban and Abby Worthley. (View a video on the making of this illustration: Ω

“When you tell your college’s story well, you ensure that students can find themselves, and the supports and services they need, at your institution,” said Jeff Julian, NCMPR’s 2023–24 president. “It’s evident in the winning entries that our members are committed to serving their students.”

The national winners were among four Windward CC projects that won gold NCMPR District 6 Medallion Awards in November.

Science and art collide in ’s newest creative media course—a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) class—among the first in the UH system.

In fall 2023, UH West Oʻahu Associate Professor of Chemistry Brad Ashburn began teaching Creative Media 108 (CM 108): Creative process in the physical sciences, a unique collaboration between the creative media and the mathematics, natural, and health sciences departments.

“Usually when I think of science, I think of numbers and lab reports and rigid experiments that the professor already knows the answer to. But CM 108 uses design and science together,” creative media student Ashley Macho said. “I get to do artsy stuff whilst also learning science. And since it’s design, everything the groups in my class make will be different. There is no correct answer.”

In the course, students explore problems of the physical sciences, create and test hypotheses, interpret results, and iterate designs. Mechanical and electronic devices are designed and built using physical science and computational reasoning and calculation. The creative process of science is emphasized and practiced throughout the course.

“CM 108 sparks creativity and curiosity about the natural world and teaches our students to view science through an artistic lens,” said Sharla Hanoaka, director of UH West Oʻahu’s Academy for Creative Media. “Problem-solving processes differ across disciplines. This course exposes them to new ways of breaking down challenges and finding solutions in a creative way.”

CM 108 students use Swift, a powerful, modern and safe programming language used by software developers to build applications for Apple iPhone, iPad, Macs and more. It is also approachable and fun for beginners to learn to code.

“The goal of this collaboration is to broaden participation in computing at UH West Oʻahu with a hands-on, project-based approach to learning science that allows for students to flex their creativity,” Ashburn said.

For more visit .
—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

A special limited edition tin designed by student Harper Okamoto will be shared around the world thanks to a unique opportunity created by fellow UH West Oʻahu alumna and Honolulu Cookie Company marketing content specialist ʻĀnela-Pōmaikaʻi Mattson.

The collaboration was made possible through a partnership between the company and pro surfer Carissa Moore’s foundation, , which aims to help girls and women navigate the waves of mental health, wellness, and womanhood, and create a life of passion, purpose, and positivity.

“I’m honored to be able to represent UH West Oʻahu and the ACM program through this design, especially one that communicates such an uplifting message and cause,” said Okamoto, who is majoring in with a concentration in . “I hope that through this product, people will not only recognize my work as a UH West Oʻahu student, but the efforts and potential of the other talented creatives in the ACM program as well.”

Mattson, a 2020 graduate played a very significant role in it all.

Mattson said she has always wanted to give back in some way to the UH West Oʻahu ACM program. So with the help of her team at Honolulu Cookie Company, they were able to create a packaging design contest with Moore’s non-profit organization.

“The intention behind this contest was to provide an opportunity for current ACM students at UH West Oʻahu to challenge themselves creatively and gain experience on what it’s like to work with a local business,” Mattson said.

For more visit .

—By Zenaida Serrano Arvman

A state-of-the-art film studio at the that will transform the campus and have a major impact on the film and television industry in the state took a significant step closer to becoming a reality. UH has selected the Island Film Group team, a diverse group with local and national experience in film studio and commercial development and operations, as the project developer.

The Island Film Group team envisions a multi-purpose entertainment campus for studio employees and the UH West Oʻahu (UHWO) community consisting of a public-serving town square with live-work, retail, dining, lodging, and office space, along with a private, secured film studio that would include modern sound stages and other support facilities.

“This project is not only important for the local film industry and the state’s economy, it will also support our educational mission by providing our students direct workforce experience with industry professionals for mentoring, networking, internship, and career development opportunities,” said UH President David Lassner. “This initial step paves the way to unprecedented opportunity for (ACM) students at UHWO and all our UH campuses as well as for the West Oʻahu region and the entire state of �鶹��ý.”

The development team includes Island Film Group, SHM Partners, Hawaii Media Inc., and CR50 Production Ventures.

“We are excited to be a part of this next chapter in the growth of the �鶹��ý film and television industry,” said Island Film Group co-founder Ricardo Galindez. “The new studio, along with our incredible local crew base, will allow �鶹��ý to compete directly with production locations all around the world.”

The 34-acre undeveloped site is adjacent to the new Keoneʻae rail station, bus transit, and park-and-ride facilities. The studio location is bound by Farrington Highway to the north, Kualakaʻi Parkway to the east, the UH West Oʻahu campus to the south, and the �鶹��ý Tokai International College campus to the west.

With this first step in the process, UH will now begin negotiating the terms of a development agreement and long-term ground lease that must be reviewed and approved by the UH Board of Regents. As part of the expected agreement, the Island Film Group team will design, build, finance, operate, manage, and maintain the project for the life of the long-term lease. Ownership would revert back to UH when the ground lease expires. The Island Film Group team was selected based on their response to the Invitation to Submit Proposals UH issued in June 2023.

“On top of the academic opportunities for our students, this project will dramatically change life at UH West Oʻahu, with the public square, retail and dining options, our campus will increasingly become a hub of activity,” said UH West Oʻahu Chancellor Maenette Benham. “We will look to build on the energy it creates and continue to grow as our community grows.”

“This is the natural next step in the evolution of the UH Academy for Creative Media,” said ACM Founder and Director Chris Lee. “Combined with our adjacent $37 million ACM Student Production Center at UHWO, this state-of-the-art studio complex will propel ACM to the top ranks of media schools globally. Because one of the requirements of this partnership is integration with ACM, our local students will have enormous career opportunities to stay in the islands with living wage jobs as talent both above and below the line. This combination will strengthen our vital production industry through workforce development and diversify �鶹��ý’s economy away from an over-reliance on tourism.”

“This project is a game-changer for the creative media industry and film productions in �鶹��ý,” said Lassner. “It will be one of the most significant steps in the state to create large numbers of high-quality jobs that will enable our students to thrive here in �鶹��ý.”

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� esports program is looking to win back-to-back collegiate esports program of the year awards, and it needs your help! The public can vote for the team on the website until November 20. The winner will be announced at an event in Las Vegas on November 28.

UH ����ԴDz� was named the 2022 best collegiate esports program by , and is one of 15 finalists this year. This is the third consecutive year that the program has been a finalist among the best collegiate esports programs in North America. The winner will be selected by an esports panel of experts (75%) and public vote (25%).

“UH esports is leading the charge around international and global esports in the collegiate level,” said UH ����ԴDz�’s esports Program Director Nyle Sky Kauweloa. “We have students from across our system that are doing wonderful things at each of their campuses, and so for what we’re doing right now, the state should be very proud of what we’ve accomplished, not only in the fact that we attract very dedicated and excited students to the collegiate esports program, but we’re also establishing partnerships both domestically in the United States but also partnerships in East Asia.”

Program accomplishments

UH ����ԴDz� esports has skyrocketed since it began in 2019, becoming the first higher education institution to host professional Overwatch League events. Among its major accomplishments over the past year, UH ����ԴDz�’s Apex Legends team has become one of the top in the nation. The program sent several students to intern in South Korea with Gen.G, one of the largest esports companies in the world. UH ����ԴDz� has placed a major emphasis on the Women of Esports organization, which was created to increase inclusion in the esports program, and has launched a new team for the game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang.

“We put all this time into the program and to having our work shown, and people appreciate it,” said Tuan Jr. Pham, UH ����ԴDz� Valorant team lead. “It seems really cool and really fun to see how the program’s expanding.”

Madeline Gilbert, UH ����ԴDz� esports player support coordinator, added, “We’re really one massive team here so it’s not the individuals, it’s not leadership, it’s all of us working together. And I think everyone deserves it.”

UH esports receives substantial funding from the . Visit the UH esports team’s and pages. More stories on UH’s esports program.

Windward Community College’s (HCPA) will showcase their production of Kahahawai/Massie and Aloha Attire, directed by Taurie Kinoshita at from November 10–19.

Both casts feature the first (ACM) cohort of the �鶹��ý Conservatory of Performing Arts.

Kahahawai/Massie is an adaptation of Dennis Carroll’s original Massie/Kahahawai, which is based on an infamous criminal court case in �鶹��ý.

This docu-drama uses court documents, newspaper articles and witness accounts to recount the series of tragic events in a still segregated early 1930s Honolulu, culminating in the murder of Joseph Kahahawai, a Hawaiian, by four Caucasian people who were subsequently set free after only one hour in the governor’s office.

“It is a story of race, poverty, a justice system which favors the wealthy—and the unsung heroes,” Kinoshita said. “I chose this play to honor Dr. Carroll, using his original play as a starting point. He was a legend.”

Also playing will be Aloha Attire by author Lee Cataluna, the HCPA Established Island Artist for the 2023–2024 season. First performed online in 2020, it has been revised and adapted for the stage.

The play features two sisters rummaging through their mother’s old boxes of memories, each item telling a different story of their family. This local comedy is full of drama, humor and nostalgia about growing up on Oʻahu in the 1980s, from Liberty House to Wonderphone.

Kinoshita said, “Lee Cataluna’s characters are like old friends—familiar, endearing—her plays comfort and move us with how true to life they are.”

Show dates and times:

• November 10, 7:30 p.m.
• November 11, 7:30 p.m.
• November 12, 3 p.m.
• November 16, 7:30 p.m.
• November 17, 7:30 p.m.
• November 18, 7:30 p.m.
• November 19, 3 p.m.

Ticket information:

• $25 General
• $20 Senior, UH faculty/staff and active Military with ID
• $15 Youth and college students with ID

(Suitable for ages 14+; running time is approximately 2.5 hours)

For tickets and more information, visit or call (808) 235-7315.

To learn about theatre classes offered at Windward CC and the new ACM �鶹��ý Conservatory of Performing Arts, visit or contact Associate Professor Nicolas Logue at logue@hawaii.edu.

More than 100 University of �鶹��ý (ACM) System students will be reaping the benefits of a new partnership with the (HIFF)—the , which was announced this summer.

Any ACM System student in �鶹��ý can for a free HIFFxACM Accelerator student pass to the 43rd �鶹��ý International Film Festival presented by Halekulani (October 12–22 on Oʻahu and through November 5, on Maui, Kauaʻi, Lanaʻi and �鶹��ý Island), which includes:

• Five free admissions to day-of screenings (tickets limited by availability)
• Invitation to HIFFxACM Gather networking event (Metaverse virtual event)
• Invitation to all HIFF industry panels
• Free HIFF industry membership for the year

By early October, more than 130 students had signed up. Among the perks for the ACM System students—access to the first HIFF screening and guest speaker to be held at UH West Oʻahu.

On October 21, 2–3:30 p.m. an ʻUluʻulu film presentation and panel, in partnership with Bishop Museum, will feature three episodes of Treasures, a docuseries that was produced and broadcast on KHON in 1985. Treasures will be shown at the UH West Oʻahu ACM campus, a state-of-the-art facility and headquarters of ʻUluʻulu: The Henry Kuʻualoha Giugni Moving Image Archive of �鶹��ý.

Also on October 21, 4–5:30 p.m., a conversation with celebrated Māori actor, Cliff Curtis, whose work ranges from The Piano, Once Were Warriors and Whale Rider, to playing different ethnicities in major motion pictures and network series over more than three decades. Audiences will gain insight into a journeyman actor’s career, reflecting the past, present and future of Pasifika entertainment.

“We are so excited for this partnership that is bringing HIFF to UH West Oʻahu ACM and the West Oʻahu region for the first time,” said ACM System Founder and Director Chris Lee. “And 20 years after our first ACM short films debuted at HIFF, we could not be prouder to see that the majority of �鶹��ý-made films are either debuts from UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s ACM:School of Cinematic Arts students, premieres from our ACM graduates, or features that our students and graduates worked on for other local filmmakers.”

Lee added that the HIFFxACM Accelerator also helps HIFF bring educational and screening opportunities to the neighbor islands and ACM System programs there, something he hopes to expand upon in coming years.

To build momentum into the fall 2023 semester, the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� and UH West Oʻahu esports programs participated in an esports competition at Comic Con Honolulu, a gaming, movie and TV event at the �鶹��ý Convention Center in early August. An estimated 7,500 people attended the three-day event.

UH ����ԴDz� and UH West Oʻahu entered six teams in League of Legends, Valorant and Super Smash Bros. for the tournament, which featured the best high school and college teams in �鶹��ý. UH teams dominated all three games, coming out on top for each.

“I had the pleasure of coordinating our teams and supervising. It was such a fantastic opportunity to see our local community and build the connection between UH Esports and our local high schools and other colleges,” said Madeline Gilbert, a UH ����ԴDz� student and UH ����ԴDz� esports player support coordinator. “I look forward to supporting K–12 esports and expanding the con.”

UH ����ԴDz�’s esports Program Director Nyle Sky Kauweloa said it was the first year Comic Con hosted an esports tournament.

“Overall exposure to the schools to showcase UH’s teams was really a fantastic thing for us,” Kauweloa said.

Garrett Lau, president of UH West Oʻahu’s Pueo Gaming, said he was proud to bring his teams to Comic Con.

“I was amazed about how far we’ve come and how much talent teams from �鶹��ý have,” Lau said. “Comic Con is a really important milestone for esports in �鶹��ý by having their first ever scholastic invitational and being one of the stepping stones for a brighter future in esports here on the islands.”

Learning from pro esports player

Also in early August, UH ����ԴDz�’s esports program hosted Dillon “Attach” Price of the Version1 + Minnesota RØKKR team (a professional esports organization with teams in Call of Duty League, Rocket League and Valorant). UH ����ԴDz�’s Call of Duty team spent an hour learning about Price’s journey into the ranks as a professional Call of Duty player. At 26, Price is nearing retirement as a professional esports player, and Kauweloa and Price discussed his future and the possibilities of returning to college.

UH Esports is currently recruiting for its esports teams for the 2023–24 academic year. If you are interested in trying out, visit the UH Esports and pages, or email uh.esports@hawaii.edu.

UH Esports receives substantial funding from the . More stories on UH’s esports program.

—By Marc Arakaki

Esports students from the and learned firsthand from one of the most prominent esports companies in the world.

Seven students traveled to South Korea for a three-week internship with Gen.G, a professional esports organization that was as the 8th most valuable esports company in 2022, with a value of $250 million and an estimated 2021 revenue at $17 million. The internship is also a SOCS 489 course out of the UH ����ԴDz� .

The students participated in the Gen.G Global Academy, which is focused on developing pathways for STEM exploration and esports career opportunities, while developing soft skills and community engagement. Three students (Kylin Daniel, Jaydon Patoc and Casey Caro) focused on the education track, while four others (Shaun Serikaku, John Lee, Nevan-Isaiah Pak and Justin Wang) completed the marketing track.

“Students who took part in the Gen. G internship/practicum have come away with a unique perspective on the global operations of esports, and in particular, how South Korea (the modern birthplace of esports) has become such a powerhouse in the industry,” said Nyle Sky Kauweloa, UH ����ԴDz�’s esports program director who accompanied the students on the trip. “This cohort now takes with them this knowledge, and I am excited to see how they will also change the landscape of esports in �鶹��ý.”

Education and marketing tracks

The education track focused on several responsibilities, including creating educational project based curriculum for the academy’s high school students, proposing a new education program to fit the current needs of the academy and the international education market, and assisting and participating in camps and events as a student mentor.

“Working alongside Gen.G and really soaking in as much as I could, all while doing the best I could to showcase my abilities and what I had learned from my college classes, was a great growing experience for me,” said Patoc, who graduated with an associate’s in instructional teaching from and is headed to UH West Oʻahu to pursue a bachelor’s degree in general education. “I would like to say thank you to Gen.G and University of �鶹��ý again for the opportunity, and I cannot wait to hit the ground running here and do what I can to help take Pueo Gaming (UH West Oʻahu esports organization), IM LeeSports (Leeward CC’s intramural sports league) and any other program I can assist with to the next level and do �鶹��ý proud.”

Caro, a UH ����ԴDz� sophomore major, added, “The internship provided me with valuable insights into the esports industry and allowed me to explore my passion for technology and gaming. The work environment at Gen.G was a perfect blend of professionalism and a laid-back atmosphere, which fostered a sense of creativity and motivation among the interns.”

The marketing track focused on enhancing global fan engagement for the team and players, collecting data, forecasting trends, conducting market research and creating advertising materials.

“The work was varied and engaging, started off simple but ramped up in difficulty pretty quickly,” said Pak, who is a UH ����ԴDz� senior major. “They had us trying to stretch our creativity and learning capabilities since we were there for such a short time. The staff was really nice and helpful, they showed us around and we got to explore a good amount of Seoul which was absolutely amazing.”

The students also got to experience Korean culture, which included visits to historical sites, the Lotte World Tower, a virtual reality theme park and a massive esports stadium. For Pak, it was his first time outside of the country.

“The sights were stunning, and the ability to learn a lot more about Korean history and culture were great,” Pak said.

UH Esports receives substantial funding from the . Visit the UH Esports team’s and pages. More stories on UH’s esports program.

—By Marc Arakaki