The University of �鶹��ý has been selected as one of 10 recipients of a national grant from Lumina Foundation’s to expand its Direct2UH program. The $400,000 grant is part of the foundation’s $3.5 million investment to simplify the college admissions process and expand student access across the country.

Building on the success of Direct2UH—the direct admissions initiative launched in October 2025, offering free entry to public high school seniors based on their GPA—the grant will fund a unified admissions system with enhanced outreach and guidance. This creates a more equitable pathway for �鶹��ý students to apply, access financial aid and enroll across nine campuses, with UH ����ԴDz� expected to join the program later this year.

“This investment allows us to build a simpler, more connected pathway to college for �鶹��ý‘s students—one that ensures every learner, regardless of background or geography, has clear and supported opportunities, making it easier for more students to move from aspiration to enrollment and ultimately to success,” said Farrah-Marie Gomes, UH associate vice president for student affairs. “This work matters locally because it directly addresses the barriers our students face and strengthens our responsibility as a statewide system to serve every community.”

Lumina’s Great Admissions Redesign initiative supports states, systems and institutions in integrating admissions, financial aid, advising and enrollment systems. The goal is to remove unnecessary barriers and help more students successfully enroll in and complete college.

“Across the country, we’re seeing real momentum to rethink how students access college,” said Melanie Heath, Lumina strategy director. “This cohort reflects a clear shift from fragmented fixes to coordinated, student-centered systems.”

Commitment to college access

At full scale, Direct2UH will reach students at all public and charter high schools across the state, with implementation in partnership with the �鶹��ý State Department of Education and �鶹��ý P–20. By aligning systems and expanding support, it will increase college access and enrollment statewide, particularly for rural and underserved communities.

Lumina’s Great Admissions Redesign initiative is part of a broader national effort to increase post-high school attainment and advance Lumina’s Goal 2040, which aims for 75 percent of working-age adults to hold a credential of value.

Prospective international students can now learn about the world-class education and unique opportunities at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� in their own language. New UH ����ԴDz� microsites in Japanese, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese as well as an English site tailored for Indian audiences give interested students and their families clear, accessible information about the application process and highlight campus experiences and community.

The UH ����ԴDz� developed the sites due to the additional complexity international students face when deciding to pursue their degree abroad including English proficiency expectations, visa processes and scholarship options. The new microsites provide clear communication, language access, and cultural context essential in helping them make informed decisions with confidence, from their first interaction with UH ����ԴDz� through graduation. Visitors to the sites can also submit questions in their own language for more information.

“We want to emphasize that UH ����ԴDz� offers more than a degree,” said UH ����ԴDz� Interim Provost Vassils Syrmos. “Students gain a world-class education, hands-on research opportunities, and a supportive campus community in one of the safest, most diverse and welcoming places in the world. �鶹��ý is not only a destination but an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.”

Emily Liu, director of international admissions in the Office of Global Engagement, expressed that while UH ����ԴDz� can be a transformational experience for international students, they in turn enhance the campus experience for everyone at UH ����ԴDz�.

“International students make UH ����ԴDz� a stronger and more vibrant campus by bringing global perspectives, diverse academic backgrounds, and rich cultural traditions into our classrooms and community,” said Liu. “They enrich class discussions, contribute to research and student life, and broaden perspectives beyond �鶹��ý while helping prepare students for success in today’s increasingly interconnected world. Their presence strengthens cross-cultural understanding and reflects UH ����ԴDz�’s role as a global university in the heart of the Pacific.”

Encouraging success, future possibilities

Depending on recruitment priorities, student demand and available resources, the Office of Global Engagement may consider microsites in more languages.

“We are already seeing encouraging early engagement and positive feedback from international prospective students, their families and partners,” said Liu. “We look forward to tracking continued interest, inquiries and overall impact as outreach and promotion continue.”

The future of �鶹��ý’s students was the focus as the state’s top education officials—�鶹��ý Department of Education (HIDOE) Superintendent Keith Hayashi, along with his deputy and assistant superintendents—�鶹��ý Department of Education (HIDOE) Superintendent Keith Hayashi, along with hvisited Kapiʻolani Community College recently. This high-level gathering was a strategic effort to strengthen the collaboration between public schools and higher education, aiming to forge clearer, stronger pathways from high school graduation into meaningful careers.

The HIDOE delegation was given a tour of key campus facilities, including health sciences labs, student support centers and collaborative instructional spaces. They met with faculty and staff to learn how Kapiʻolani CC embeds place-based and experiential learning into its curriculum. College administrators detailed programmatic changes on the horizon designed to sharpen alignment with HIDOE workforce priorities and enhance coordination between �鶹��ý’s K–12 and higher education systems.

Empowering students, commitment to collaboration

“As we move forward with the Direct2UH initiative (a fast pass to nine UH campuses), it is essential that students and families understand which programs offer the best pathways to achieve their life and career goals,” said Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “At Kapiʻolani Community College, we want to make those pathways visible and accessible. We will continue to invite HIDOE leaders, principals, students and parents to our campus so they can experience firsthand the learning environment that empowers our students to thrive and prepares them for �鶹��ý’s evolving workforce.”

The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to dialogue and collaboration between Kapiʻolani CC and the HIDOE—to strengthen workforce readiness, foster innovation and create lasting educational pathways for �鶹��ý learners.

“Strengthening partnerships between our public schools and higher education institutions like Kapiʻolani Community College is key to preparing our students to be globally competitive and locally committed,” said Hayashi. “By aligning our efforts, we can create seamless pathways that empower students to pursue their passions, contribute to �鶹��ý’s workforce, and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.”

Hundreds of prospective students, their ʻohana, alumni and community members filled the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa campus on November 15, for Discover UH Mānoa, the university’s largest annual open house.

The three-hour event offered guests a rare, all-access experience across campus, featuring more than 100 academic programs and student services, hands-on demonstrations, workshops, research activities, live entertainment and guided tours.

“I hope they walk away feeling that this is their ʻohana. We can’t wait to welcome them in, support them, and help them reach every goal they’re chasing,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “We’re truly excited for this next generation, come on in, we’re ready for you.”

Event highlights

Visitors got a lively snapshot of campus life through hands-on workshops, research demos and student projects from a wide range of units at UH Mānoa everything from STEM, the arts, humanities and Hawaiian studies. The College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience drew crowds with its cooking demonstrations, serving up green onion Korean pancakes and ʻuala desserts, made from locally grown ingredients. The UH Marching Band and UH athletes kept the crowd energized with performances and meet-and-greet opportunities.

Farrington High School senior Mikaela Paet explored the event with her classmates and said she was excited to learn more about the program she hopes to pursue.

“Just walking around the campus makes me very welcomed. A lot of the programs interest me, specifically nursing,” Paet said.

The day also featured an Alumni Makers’ Market, food trucks, free shave ice, prizes, giveaways, UH Bookstore merchandise and guided housing tours, giving visitors a well-rounded look at life on campus.

“UH Mānoa offers something rare—world-class research opportunities, strong academic programs, Division I athletics, and a campus experience you won’t find just anywhere. It’s truly an exceptional place to learn and grow,” said Vassilis Syrmos, interim provost at UH Mānoa.

UH Mānoa’s rising momentum

The annual open house comes as UH Mānoa continues to earn national recognition. The university recently climbed 62 spots in the 2026 Wall Street Journal Best Colleges rankings and set new records in research funding and philanthropy.

Enrollment has also reached its highest level in five years, signaling strong demand from �鶹��ý families and students from around the world.

(�鶹��ý P–20) is offering free workshops to assist �鶹��ý students and their families with the planning process to further their education after high school. Upcoming workshop topics focus on how to earn scholarships to attend a two- or four-year college, as well as trade and vocational schools, and help with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form for the 2026–27 school year.

Statewide Native Hawaiian Scholarship ʻAha Series

Starting October 14, �鶹��ý P–20, Native Hawaiian Education Association and Pacific Financial Aid Association will host the first of the Statewide Native Hawaiian Scholarship ʻAha Series events. In-person events will be held on �鶹��ý Island, Kauaʻi, ����Բ�ʻ��, Maui, Molokaʻi and Oʻahu, and two dates will be held online. Events are open for everyone to explore scholarship opportunities from various organizations across the state.

Dinner will be provided during each in-person event and a $500 scholarship will be awarded. FAFSA and financial aid representatives will also be available to ask questions and help students and families. For a complete listing of all Statewide Native Hawaiian Scholarship ʻAha Series events or to register for a specific date near you, visit .

Virtual Scholarship Workshops

At �鶹��ý P–20’s Virtual Scholarship Workshops, attendees will hear from representatives from Sallie Mae, �鶹��ý Community Foundation and the University of �鶹��ý System about how �鶹��ý students can access more than $70 million to help pay for college, regardless of their family income, as well as how to use scholarship search engines to apply for scholarships. Virtual Scholarship Workshops are scheduled for Thursday evenings on November 6 and November 20, from 6–7:30 p.m., and registration is available now at .

Virtual FAFSA Completion Workshops

The FAFSA for the 2026–27 award year is now open for all students to complete to become eligible for scholarships, grants and work-study funds, in addition to loans from the federal government. Attend a Virtual FAFSA Completion Workshop to see a line-by-line overview of the online application, learn about the allowable college expenses that financial aid can help to pay for including transportation, meals, books, tuition and various fees and speak directly with local financial aid specialists. Virtual FAFSA Completion Workshops begin on November 5, and are held on Wednesday evenings from 6–7:30 p.m. until March 11. Registration is available now at .

With questions regarding any of these events or for college planning assistance, families may contact FAFSA@hawaii.edu year round.

Three University of �鶹��ý campuses were selected to participate in a year-long program designed to improve outcomes for students transferring from community colleges to four-year universities.

The University of �鶹��ý–West Oʻahu, Honolulu Community College and Kauaʻi Community College were selected for Cohort 4 of the Transfer Student Success Intensive. The program has seen strong outcomes with dozens of schools. It is led by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program (Aspen) and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), and supported by the Ascendium Education Group.

“Transfer student success is a priority at and we are very excited to advance our support of transfer students in collaboration with Kauaʻi Community College and Honolulu Community College,” said Amy Bumatai, project director of the Hoʻokele Huakaʻi Naʻauao grant program at UH West Oʻahu.

“ is honored to participate in the Aspen Transfer Student Success Intensive, as it aligns with our commitment to creating clear, equitable pathways for our students to achieve their academic and career goals. By collaborating with national leaders and partner institutions, we can strengthen transfer opportunities and ensure our students thrive beyond their time at Honolulu CC,” said Susan Nishida, interim vice chancellor of academic affairs.

“ is excited to be part of the team supporting transfer students as they transition from the community college to a four-year college or university,” Kauaʻi CC Transfer Center Student Services Specialist Rhonda Liu said. “We are committed to ensuring success by supporting students throughout their journey to complete their bachelor’s degree online and in-person. We strive to improve their overall student experience before, during, and after transfer, and beyond.”

Cohort four includes 10 teams of 10 four-year institutions and 13 community colleges, representing 10 states. These partnerships will work collaboratively over the next year to create new strategies tailored to each institution and student needs.

Since 2021, the program has supported 91 colleges, including 41 AASCU members, impacting 16,000 transfer students across 23 states. “The Transfer Intensive is a hands-on program that gives institutions research and proven practices that help them reimagine and improve their transfer pathways,” said Tania LaViolet, director of research and innovation at the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Through this initiative, we are helping institutions address systemic barriers and develop actionable plans that if implemented, should improve transfer rates and bachelor’s degree attainment for students who begin at community colleges.”

The Transfer Intensive offers institutions access to a research-based curriculum, individualized consultations, and workshops to accelerate institutional progress toward transfer reform. Participating institutions will focus on data collection, goal setting, and peer learning to enhance outcomes for transfer students in the communities that they serve.

For more information about the Transfer Student Success Intensive, visit .

In Kauaʻi High School senior Via Javinar’s video entry for the 2024 #TakeMeTo����ԴDz� scholarship contest, she expressed her love for the �鶹��ý community and her determination to show that there are no limitations to the place that you live. While her dreams can be achieved anywhere, she believes the perfect place to further her education is at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�.

Javinar’s #TakeMeTo����ԴDz� scholarship contest win was unveiled live on television during her graduation rehearsal. UH ����ԴDz� Associate Director of Admissions Shauna Pimentel-Motooka and (HNN) Anchor Dillon Ancheta surprised her with the news that she would be receiving a free year of tuition for UH ����ԴDz�, funded by (UHFCU).

“This is very surreal. I’m just really, really excited and happy,” said Javinar. “�鶹��ý is my home. Leaving this place, I knew it would be hard for me, and that’s why I decided on (attending) ����ԴDz�.”

Javinar received a large check, lei and gifts as her mother, Hilda, brothers Vincent and Vernon, and grandmother surrounded her during the announcement. Her classmates, teachers and administrators filled the Kauaʻi High School gym with cheers as they celebrated her scholarship win.

At UH ����ԴDz�, Javinar plans to pursue .

Meet previous #TakeMeTo����ԴDz� winners

“It is so exciting for us to provide a scholarship that will support Via at the start of her college journey,” said UHFCU President and CEO Travis Bow. “We proudly invest in students and their education as they become the future leaders and innovators of our community. We wish Via nothing but the best on her academic journey!”

“We were very impressed with Via’s ability to convey such a powerful message in a 60-second video,” said Pimentel-Motooka. “I was honored to present Via with her scholarship yesterday. The surprise, happiness and gratitude that Via and her family expressed were very touching. She exhibits both academic and creative strengths and we are very excited for the bright future that she has ahead of her at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�.”

UHFCU has sponsored the #TakeMeTo����ԴDz� contest for six years, surprising recipients with HNN since 2018. Read more about previous winners.

A new, modern welcome center will greet prospective students to the , thanks to the generosity of a spring 2024 graduate and her family.

Haley Taylor, a major in the , worked as a tour guide in the for three years. It was because of her “UHMazing” experience being part of the office and showing off what the university has to offer that persuaded her family to make a generous contribution to renovate the center.

• Related UH News story: Student leader: Haley Taylor’s journey inspiring future ‘Bows, May 6, 2024

Taylor, her family and other campus leaders gathered for a grand reopening ceremony on May 10. The welcome center is located in the Office of Admissions in the Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Services room 001. Among the changes included: removing existing counters and countertops to significantly increase available space, renovating and replacing existing fluorescent lighting for warmer LED lighting, replacing ceiling tiles with a floating wood ceiling, and adding more furniture and wall decorations to match and expand the open concept design of the space.

“All I can think of is opportunity, opportunity that we haven’t even imagined yet,” UH ����ԴDz� Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun said. “That’s why I’m excited to bring other people into this and ask them, ‘what do you imagine?’ And ultimately, I hope that when future students come here, they feel like the space is a reflection of the experience that they have at ����ԴDz�.”

�鶹��ý ties keep ʻohana close

Taylor was born in Tennessee and went to high school in Las Vegas, but in between spent four years residing in �鶹��ý Kai. Although she is headed to the continental U.S. to pursue a graduate degree, she said she’ll be back to visit, and already looks forward to visiting the center and reconnecting with colleagues turned friends.

“Coming back in the future, I think it’s just going to bring back a lot of memories,” Taylor said. “Being able to showcase that with anyone I bring back, seeing the plaque on the wall and knowing that my small part here is lasting and gonna make an impact on so many people, I think I’m just looking forward to that, letting them understand how important this is.”

Haley’s father, Jason, is a trustee with . He is the chief sales officer at Gannett and president of USAToday Network Ventures. The Taylor family lived on Oʻahu when Jason served as senior vice president of sales and marketing at the Honolulu Advertiser from 2003 to 2007. Jason initiated the conversation about making a generous contribution with UH Foundation CEO and UH Vice President for Advancement Tim Dolan, who then reached out to Chun.

“When we lived here years ago, the island was so welcoming to our family that we wanted to do something to extend that to future families,” Jason said. “We knew that the Office of Admissions was so important to Haley and her development during her four years here so it just seemed like the perfect opportunity.”

“The Taylor family has made a lasting impact in supporting our current and future students at UH,” Dolan said. “We’ve been very fortunate to have Haley’s father, Jason Taylor, on our Board of Trustees, and we are sincerely grateful for their gift to permanently enhance UH’s Welcome Center.”

—By Marc Arakaki

Haley Taylor is a shining example of a student who found her passion at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�. And for the past few years, the spring 2024 graduate and student has been paying it forward to the community through her service in Alohathon, a UH Manoa-based non-profit organization, and to future Rainbow Warriors as a tour guide with the .

Discovering academic interests

Taylor began her academic journey at UH ����ԴDz� in the midst of the pandemic, unsure of what the university would have to offer and what major to pursue. After enrolling in a few courses in the ’ , she found that these classes resonated with her interests.

“I’ve met some really amazing faculty who really wanted me to thrive,” Taylor said. “They taught me things about new emerging social media and media connections and how vital communications is in the world we live in now.”

Inspiring future ‘Bows

Taylor was born in Tennessee and went to high school in Las Vegas, but in between spent four years residing in �鶹��ý Kai, so she wasn’t new to living on Oʻahu. While Taylor lived on campus during her freshman year, most of her classes were online due to the pandemic. She recalled that when her parents visited, she couldn’t tell them what most of the buildings were. This is what inspired her to apply to be a campus tour guide during her sophomore year.

“By luck they hired me and I’ve loved it ever since I started—just being able to talk to prospective students and tell them what I’ve learned, what I’ve gained from it and hopefully allow them to see what kind of amazing opportunities they might not be thinking about, and how it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get your education in a place like this,” Taylor said. “It really is unlike any other.”

She continued working as a tour guide through her senior year and also became a leader to welcome and connect new students and their families with the campus.

“At orientation, they’d come up to me like, ‘Hey, you’re my tour guide. I heard you talk about this. I knew I wanted to be a part of it when I came to the school.’ And that’s just a feeling you can’t really describe,” Taylor said. “It’s just like, ‘Wow, I made an impact on someone’s major life decision.’ It’s not solely because of me. It’s because of how amazing the university is.”

Giving back

Becoming a part of the UH Manoa ʻohana inspired Taylor to look for ways to give back to her campus community. In her sophomore year, she called it her “proudest moment” when she led an organization called Alohathon at UH ����ԴDz�. They helped raise more than $27,000 for Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women and Children.

Stepping toward the future

Taylor is headed to Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, to pursue a master’s degree in communications, with a focus on artificial intelligence. While she’ll be leaving the islands, at least for now, a piece of her legacy will remain at the place it all started—the admissions office. Inspired by the impact UH ����ԴDz� had on their daughter’s academic career, Taylor’s parents made a generous contribution to revamp the welcome center in the Office of Admissions—the place many prospective students see when they first step foot on campus and where Taylor spent many memorable hours.

“To revamp this and to get this to be a fresh new happening place for prospective students to come in and see, it’s a good first look for the university,” Taylor said. “In however many years when I have a family, I can come back and show them not only the place that I love, the island that I love, but the place I spent so much of my undergraduate time in.”

Check out more stories of our UH spring graduates

When asked about what UH ����ԴDz� has meant to her, Taylor concluded, “UH has meant everything. This has been the best four years that I could have ever imagined. I can’t imagine going to a different undergraduate program.”

—By Marc Arakaki

The second year of the University of �鶹��ý statewide marketing campaign, “There’s a place for you” officially launched on October 11 for at least a five month run with ads on social media platforms and local television and radio stations. The goal is to remind all �鶹��ý residents that no matter where you are in your life journey, there is a place for you at UH to pursue your academic and career goals.

UH is �鶹��ý‘s sole provider of public higher education with 10 campuses and nine learning centers conveniently located across the state along with a number of online programs. There is a wide spectrum of educational opportunities from short-term workforce training, career technical education and non-credit programs to associate, undergraduate and advanced degree programs. Year two of the campaign features social media style ads with current UH students highlighting the different UH programs along with the importance of higher education.

“Data consistently shows that those with a college degree or training make significantly more money over the lifetime; live healthier, longer lives; are less likely to live in poverty and rely on government assistance, and the list of benefits goes on and on,” said Dan Meisenzahl, the director of the UH Office of Communications, which is responsible for the campaign. “Despite these facts, more than half of Americans no longer believe a college degree is worth the money, according to many recent surveys.”

The ad campaign encourages all prospective students, no matter their age or background, to visit . This year’s campaign features three different spots with multiple variations and is scheduled to run through March 2024. In the first year of the campaign, 1,528 TV 30 second ads and 10,542 radio 30 second ads aired statewide, and just over 6,100 link clicks were generated on social media.

• Related UH News story: UH launches ‘a place for you,’ statewide campaign, August 15, 2022

Dozens of high school college and career counselors from around the state gathered at the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa on September 8, to meet with teams from all 10 UH campuses and learn more about the latest programs and activities. The counselors represented both public and private schools.

The UH Mānoa admissions office has been holding the annual High School Counselors Workshop for more than 30 years, continually refreshing the event to support the evolving needs of counselors. Both counselors and recruiters from the campuses say the face-to-face time is important.

“Personal connections with the UH team is critical,” said Director of College Counseling for Maui Preparatory Academy Keenan Reader. “Interacting with colleagues at other schools and learning the new UH programs and activities is pivotal to providing my students with relevant information.”

“I see the benefit of us being here and connected,” said UH Mānoa recruiter Kayden Iwasaki. “I get to see these people and say, ‘Hi, I’m your counselor,’ in person compared to online platforms where it has been harder to connect.”

10-campus system on display

This year, a resource fair featured recruiters from most of the 10 campuses and some of the UH programs.

’s Coordinator Sheldon Tawata helped to organize the topics and recruiters from the different campuses.

“Having everyone under the same roof is amazing,” Tawata said.

“Being able to see UH as an integrated system and that everyone is working together is very important,” Reader said. “I get to learn more about specific programs and opportunities that give my students more details instead of generalized information.”

Being connected with the local high school counselors allowed for organizers to provide workshops on topics of interest. The conference featured workshops from admissions tips for the four-year UH campuses and the community colleges, opportunities for students, and on mental health wellness.

“Mental health is a timely subject,” Tawata said. “The counselors want as much information as they can get to help navigate all the dynamics based on the wide-range of students they have.”

Showing off their ongoing support for the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�, local boutique released its newest “Eden x UH ����ԴDz� collection,” available exclusively at the . The new merchandise items include tote bags, crossbody bags and stadium cups featuring motifs inspired by the “beautifully diverse campus offerings and student body.”

The partnership with Eden in Love—known for their collaborative pieces with local schools, businesses and organizations—began in August 2022. The Office of the Provost, Office of Admissions and the UH ����ԴDz� Bookstore approached owners and UH alumni Tanna and Bryson Dang, to come up with new custom-designed UH ����ԴDz� merchandise to promote student, alumni and community pride, and enhance the university’s marketing and branding efforts.

“This collaboration with Eden in Love has been a great way to showcase our support for our UHM-azing alumni and the partnerships with inter-departments. This spirit of collaboration has produced an exciting and unique design, exclusive to Eden in Love and our campus bookstore that we hope everyone will enjoy,” said Jennel Sesoko, UH ����ԴDz� director of branding and marketing. “We value the relationships cultivated both on and off campus with our students, faculty, staff and greater community to be a part of, engaged in the celebration of school spirit and Warrior pride.”

Related story: Super fan celebrates birthday with gift to UH marching band, September 2019

In April 2023, the collection initially launched with a limited release of the medium tote bag that was available for purchase at the ����ԴDz� Experience: University Preview Day. The item was so popular that all the bags sold out within a few days. The bags are currently back in stock at the bookstore.

“It’s always a delight to be able to partner on projects at the bookstore from our very own talented UH alumni,” said Staci Yoshihara, assistant bookstore director. “After a year of collaboration, we are pleased with the products that weʻre able to offer our UH supporters.”

Strong UH alumni supporters

Celebrating their 13th year in business this year, the majority of the Eden in Love team who have worked or are now employed at the popular boutique are proud UH ����ԴDz� alumni.

We hope that inspiring the community to support higher education in our state will come from these cheerful collaborations
—Alyssa Han, Eden in Love Creative Director/UH alumna

“It’s been a thrill to nod back to our old stomping grounds,” said Tanna Dang. “So much of who we are today is because of the foundation UH has laid for us.”

Eden in Love’s support for their hometown university began with “Bentos for the Band,” a project in 2019 led by Bryson Dang, who was a former marching band member. That turned into their recent “Aloha For Da Band” collaboration in 2022 in which exclusive UH band tote bags were created with a portion of sales benefiting the band.

In this newest Eden and UH collaboration, Creative Director Alyssa Han, also a UH alumna, spearheaded the design process.

“We were honored to create this design and once again support UH ����ԴDz�. Not only does it encompass the school spirit and cheer but also features unique aspects of UH ����ԴDz� including landmark �鶹��ý Hall, its Hawaiian name, ‘Ke Kulanui o �鶹��ý ma ����ԴDz�’ and a hidden unicorn showing off the land, sea, sun and space grant designation,” Han said.

She added, “Beyond panels and mentorship, we hope that inspiring the community to support higher education in our state will come from these cheerful collaborations.”

The exclusive bookstore items are available in-store and while supplies last. Eden in Love has also released additional items from the collection available for a limited time at .

—By Arlene Abiang

Incoming University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa freshman Carly Miyamoto will graduate from Pearl City High School on May 20, at the �鶹��ý Convention Center as the president of the National Honor Society. At her graduation rehearsal, she and her parents were surprised to learn Miyamoto earned a free year of tuition thanks to her entry in the #TakeMeToMānoa contest funded by (FCU) and hosted by (HNN).

HNN Sunrise host Billy V broke the news to Miyamoto in front of her classmates at the Michael Nakasone Auditorium. They watched on a huge screen as her one-minute winning video of why she is going to UH Mānoa played.

Her classmates, teachers and administrators cheered as Billy V announced the award and representatives from UHFCU and UH Mānoa provided her with a giant check, lei and gifts.

Miyamoto’s parents also surprised her as they were called up on stage to celebrate with her. Mother and daughter cried tears of joy while others congratulated the family.

“As soon as I saw the video I knew immediately and I started tearing up already,” Miyamoto said. “It was just unbelievable.”

She said she was able to weave clips from other videos she had filmed in the past few years with additional footage she recorded at Mānoa and elsewhere. When she was done she had created a video tapestry of her life leading up to her choosing UH.

Miyamoto is admitted for the marketing track at the UH Mānoa . Her passion for filmmaking also has her looking at other possible areas to grow as well.

Meet more #TakeMeTo����ԴDz� winners

“With the scholarship, I’m so happy because I get to give back to my parents for all that they have given me throughout my life and I’m extremely grateful,” Miyamoto said.

UHFCU has sponsored the tuition giveaway for five years. They have partnered with HNN to surprise students since 2018.

“We are thrilled to extend a scholarship to Carly, a highly deserving student embarking on their college journey,” remarked UHFCU President and CEO Travis Bow. “These opportunities fill us with immense pride and excitement each year as they allow us to invest in talented individuals and contribute toward our community’s future growth and prosperity. Education is the key that unlocks doors to limitless possibilities, and by supporting this student’s academic aspirations, we are fostering a brighter tomorrow. We wish Carly nothing but the best on the journey ahead!”

From tiny seeds grow mighty trees! ʻAiea Intermediate students learned how valuable they are as the next generation in the islands during a tour of the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� on April 5. Hosted by the UH ����ԴDz� Admissions office, the students delved into arboriculture and higher education opportunities at UH.

For the ʻAiea ahupuaʻa

As part of their project-based learning, the students are inspecting and analyzing the trees on their own campus and finding ways to improve them. To discover which traits would be most beneficial, the students learned about the UH ����ԴDz� arboretum’s native and non-native trees.

“It feels good to be doing a project like this for ʻAiea,” said seventh grader Alya Hasan. “I’m doing something great for my school and for my community.”

Tour guide Noweo Kai, UH ����ԴDz� Campus Arboretum curator, offered valuable information on trees in a campus setting and posed considerations for the students, such as how the plants can affect �鶹��ý or celebrate �鶹��ý’s endemic plants.

• Related UH News story: Arboretum accreditation, tree recognition for UH ����ԴDz� campus, April 13, 2021

“The students know the impact they have on their community right now,” said Kai. “The Campus Arboretum serves as an example for them to learn from. Both the UH ����ԴDz� and ʻAiea Intermediate campuses have the same considerations for our island.”

The ʻAiea Intermediate project is led by teachers Sherry Cassetta and Laurel De Ponte and gives students a chance to learn about trees in a more impactful way. It is part of a larger EPA-funded project measuring and identifying ways to mitigate the impact of urban heat islands (built environments that retain heat) undertaken by the nonprofit .

“Through this project, students gain knowledge about �鶹��ý plants and help their community while practicing Hawaiian values of kuleana (responsibility), mālama (care), lōkahi (cooperation), which are relevant in any culture and place,” said Cassetta. “In December 2022, the students prepared 80 milo seedlings—some will be put in the ground, but others will be shared with the ʻAiea ahupuaʻa.”

Planting the seed

Although the students delved into the impact they have on their school and community now, they also gained insights into careers in arboriculture and the value of higher education.

Roxanne Adams, director of Buildings and Grounds at UH ����ԴDz�, shared her story of her desire to study plants, especially plants in �鶹��ý, and how plants can be incorporated into many career paths, from art to architecture and engineering.

“It was great for the students to tour the Campus Arboretum, not only because we have a huge collection of plants for them to learn from, but because they got to be on a college campus and know that they can receive a good education right here in �鶹��ý,” said Adams.

Seventh grader Michaela Whaley shared her excitement in pursuing higher education.

“Plants and gardening could be part of one of my future careers and I really want to attend college to pursue that,” said Whaley. “I might possibly come to UH!”

Prospective and admitted students and their families were welcomed to the campus on April 1 for the , an annual preview day that showcases life and higher education at one of the world’s greatest universities.

More than 2,000 people attended the event that featured UH ����ԴDz� students, faculty and staff who interacted with the guests through hands-on activities, student performances, giveaways and a Rainbow Warrior photo booth.

Lined up in booths along McCarthy Mall and Legacy Path, more than 130 academic programs and exciting campus activities shared what the university has to offer.

“I came here to see the different majors that they give here at UH ����ԴDz� and just to get a feel of what I want to do when I come to college,” said Aiysis-Jade Mariano, a prospective UH ����ԴDz� student and Farrington High School junior. “Everybody was very kind and whenever I asked questions they gave me great answers.”

UH ����ԴDz� Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun said, “I think the best part is that energy. It’s being able to show off and showcase what we have to offer to students through the undergraduate experience as well as the graduate experience.”

Future ʻBows were able to experience the beautiful campus with student-led and self-guided tours. Attendees viewed the Warrior Recreation Center, the engineering research and archaeology labs, the insect museum, digital studios, student housing and more.

The preview day also gave future students a chance to purchase UH gear from the UH ����ԴDz� Bookstore, and students accepted to attend the UH flagship campus in fall 2023 received an UHM-azing gift.

UH ����ԴDz� is consistently ranked among the top 2% nationally out of nearly 2,600 four-year schools in the U.S. by major ranking services, and in 2022, the institution’s quality was acknowledged with a reaffirmation for a full 10 years of accreditation.

The campus is currently on the up with graduation rates steadily increasing and freshmen enrollment rates rising. In fall 2022, 3,106 freshmen enrolled, surpassing 3,000 for the first time.

“We love this campus, we love what we do here and we want to share it with the community here in �鶹��ý,” UH ����ԴDz� Director of Admissions Ryan Yamaguchi said. “I think it’s working because there is more interest. The interest level in ����ԴDz� is growing—more people want to be here at the institution.”

The 2023 #TakeMeToManoa scholarship contest has opened for all �鶹��ý high school seniors and transfer students. The winner receives a year of free tuition at one of the best universities in the world, the .

The social media contest hosted by runs from March 13 to April 9. To enter, upload a 60-second video explaining why UH ����ԴDz� is the right university for you and the impact a year of free tuition, courtesy of the , will have on your life. .

The 2022 #TakeMeToManoa winner, Kamehameha Schools Maui graduate Nanea Ah You, focused her video entry on how the scholarship would help further her dreams as a kānaka �鶹��ý storyteller and filmmaker.

Read more about Ah You.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity this partnership with UH Federal Credit Union and Hawaii News Now presents for the next generation of Rainbow Warriors,” said UH ����ԴDz� Provost Michael Bruno. “We look forward to supporting our new students and can’t wait to provide them with a world-class education that will open doors to meaningful, impactful careers.”

Read more about previous scholarship recipients:

• Maui student Hezekiah Kapuaala creates way to free tuition in #TakeMeToManoa contest, May 24, 2021
• ʻAiea student Kylie Charice Alarcon scores free year of tuition in #MakeManoaYours contest, May 22, 2020
• Kaiser student Megan Kaneshiro wins �鶹��ý����ԴDz� tuition in #MakeManoaYours contest, May 24, 2019

Prospective students are encouraged to apply for fall 2023 and to confirm their enrollment by May 1, if they have already received an acceptance letter.

UH ����ԴDz� offers a choice of 98 majors, 88 graduate majors, 52 doctoral degrees and five first professional degrees. The campus is a globally recognized center of learning and research, is consistently ranked among the top 2% of universities in the world, and aims to create a stronger, sustainable future and make a worldwide difference.

An inaugural event at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� (JABSOM) kicks off an initiative that aims to increase opportunities for youth to learn about a potential career in medicine while also helping to address the doctor shortage in the state.

The Huakaʻi (Voyage) Symposium was held on March 3, at JABSOM with more than 100 academic advisors and career counselors from middle and high schools across �鶹��ý in attendance. The event included keynote addresses by Gov. Josh Green, UH President David Lassner, UH Regent Diane Paloma and JABSOM Interim Dean Lee Buenconsejo-Lum. �鶹��ý Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi led a plenary session that included representatives from several health academies and current medical students.

Counselors and administrators heard about the many programs offered through JABSOM for students interested in careers in science and medicine, including the Pre-Health Advising Center, rural health, Native Hawaiian health and anatomy.

“It’s just planting these seeds of ideas that it is a possibility,” said Jaimie Tom, associate director of admissions at JABSOM who organized the symposium. “What goes from being a dream, then becomes a goal, then you have a plan and you have people around you to really guide you. It’s about exploration. These are all departments housed in JABSOM that are doing wonderful things to outreach to the community, so it’s really about showcasing all of our talents here.”

JABSOM Huakaʻi is open to anyone who works with students or has a desire to support these efforts such as counselors, advisors, teachers as well as those in the business sector. The purpose is to provide a platform to allow engagement amongst community leaders and educators, as well as to highlight programs offered through JABSOM.

First-year medical student Jonathan Carino said he wished Huakaʻi existed when he was a student at Pearl City High School.

“When I was growing up, the message was out there, but I didn’t hear it. I think that’s the case for many people on this island who don’t have the resources or support. They just don’t know,” Carino said. “Programs and events like these to help outreach to people who otherwise won’t know, this is perfect for them.”

Through the Huakaʻi initiative, Tom hopes JABSOM can create a virtual hub and be a resource to establish more connections with �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ�� students like Carino.

“There’s an endless amount of possibilities for that,” Tom said.

New, prospective and international students at the have updated online resources from the and the to guide them on their educational journeys.

The highlights the benefits of choosing UH ����ԴDz�, including excellence in academics, research, athletics and cultural opportunities—both in �鶹��ý and internationally. Freshmen and transfer students can use the viewbook to keep on track their first year with a checklist of requirements and important dates, and the viewbook features alumni and faculty voices to welcome them to an educational experience like no other.

The focuses on support and opportunities available specifically for international students, as well as requirements. Similarly to the UH ����ԴDz� Viewbook, the guide features students sharing experiences to encourage international students to make the most of their UH ����ԴDz� journey.

provides a breakdown of tuition for resident, non-resident and Western Undergraduate Exchange students, as well as financial aid, scholarship, grant and student employment information.

“These publications are designed to introduce prospective students to the distinctive educational experience that UH ����ԴDz� offers,” said Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun. “I hope students and their family members use these pieces as jumping off points to learn more about everything that is available to them here at ����ԴDz�.”

The priority application deadline for the UH ����ԴDz� fall 2023 semester is January 5, and the final deadline is March 1. The priority deadline for financial aid is February 1. More information is available on the UH ����ԴDz� website and the website.

The welcomed its largest-ever freshmen class in its 115-year history in the fall 2022 semester. Overall, UH ����ԴDz� enrollment dipped by just 0.1% in the fall, compared to a 1.1% decrease nationally, according to . There are 19,074 students enrolled at UH ����ԴDz� (just 24 fewer compared to fall 2021), including a record 3,106 first-time freshmen, a 5.7% increase from the record high set last year. The average high school GPA for the freshman class is 3.69, also up from 2021.

“Our fall enrollment numbers, particularly the first-time freshmen and the quality of those students, is further proof that the people of �鶹��ý and beyond are seeing UH ����ԴDz� for what it truly is—one of the best universities in the country that is also incredibly affordable,” said UH ����ԴDz� Provost Michael Bruno. “The credit goes to our enrollment management team, and our outstanding faculty and staff, and the fact that we are doing a much better job of sharing our story with the world.”

There were also enrollment increases among Native Hawaiian and part-Hawaiian students (12.8% of total enrollment vs.12.2% in 2021), Filipino students (11.5% vs. 11.0% in 2021) and a 1.3% increase in the number of students from �鶹��ý.

Record high graduation rates

For the 12th straight year, UH ����ԴDz� set a record in on-time graduation rates, with 44.1% of
first-time, full-time freshmen earning their degrees in four years. That is a 4.3% increase from 2021. The four-year graduation rate has steadily increased from 17% to 44.1% over the past 12 years. The six-year graduation rate is also at a record high of 62.3%, reflecting a 3.4% increase from last year.

“The credit really goes to so many people as these efforts to improve our graduation rates started in earnest more than 15 years ago, and we continue to build on our success each year,” said Bruno. “Our work is far from over as we ensure that our students not only graduate in a timely manner but are ready to make a difference and contribute to our state and society.”

Bruno cited a number of initiatives responsible for the improving graduation rates, including the STAR GPS system and its advising tools and graduation pathways that keep students on track, the funding of summer scholarships that help students catch up and/or complete their prerequisite courses, strengthened growth and development activities that better support students and the timely disbursement of financial aid as financial hardships are one of the main reasons students leave school before graduation.

Related: UH enrollment dips as graduation rates, first-time students rise, October 2022

More than $57.9 million in financial aid was disbursed to 8,857 students when the fall semester started, $3.4 million (and 156 students) more than in 2021.

“Financial aid is a significant factor in making a �鶹��ýdegree affordable for more than 46% of our students, and ensuring this aid is disbursed in a timely manner to all our students is a tremendous kuleana,” said UH ����ԴDz� Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Nikki Chun. “The Financial Aid staff are among the campus’ unsung heroes, and I admire their dedication to serving our students with care.”