University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ student journalists earned top honors for reporting on some of Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s most pressing issues at the 2025 Society of Professional Journalists Â鶹´«Ã½ Chapter Excellence in Journalism Awards.

UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ students received all 24 awards across eight student categories, with work examining federal research funding, Native Hawaiian programs, agriculture, immigration, local sports and other community issues. The awards were presented July 29 at the Japanese Cultural Center of Â鶹´«Ã½.

“From in-depth coverage of the federal research funding environment to striking photos of shark diving expeditions, UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ journalism students continue to document the life and communities of Honolulu,” said Journalism Program Director John Temple. “Journalism at UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ has never been more vital.”

First-place winners

UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ students earned first place in all eight student categories:

• Alani Calderon, Student Investigative Journalism in Any Media
• Laurel Galvin, Student Breaking News in Any Media
• Malia Manuel, Student Feature Journalism in Any Media
• Yuzu Martin, Student Sports Journalism in Any Media
• Jordan Kala‘waia Nunies, Student Journalism Featuring Video
• Gabriela Cervantes, Student Journalism Featuring Photography
• Emma Caires, Student Journalism Featuring Audio
• Tia Lewis, Student Editorial/Opinion Writing

Students also earned every second- and third-place award. The winners included students taking journalism courses in the School of Communication and Information in the College of Social Sciences, along with students reporting and creating for Ka Leo O Â鶹´«Ã½, UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹â€™s student newspaper.

The range of recognized work reflects the breadth of storytelling produced by UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ students across written, audio and visual journalism.

Visit the for the complete list of winners and their award-winning work.

A surge of new funding is highlighting the critical mission of one of Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s most significant digital archives. Multiple grants are flowing into the ’ (COH) in recognition of its vital work to preserve the history, voices and experiences of Maui communities.

Housed in the on the UH Mānoa campus, COH is leveraging these resources to launch a series of Maui-based projects focused on recovery, cultural continuity and environmental history.

“Taken together, these four projects form a complementary portfolio that documents Maui’s people, places, environments and institutions during a critical period of transformation,” said COH Director Mary Kunmi Yu Danico. “They intersect through their shared reliance on oral history, commitment to community collaboration, dedication to cultural preservation and focus on creating accessible and sustainable historical resources. Collectively, they not only preserve the past but also contribute to Maui’s recovery, resilience and future generations’ understanding of their heritage.”

Four major initiatives

Maui Strong Fund of the Â鶹´«Ã½ Community Foundation—$250,000

• Project: “Lahaina Memories: Preserving Oral Histories Through Intergenerational Storytelling”

“Lahaina Memories” is a community-centered initiative designed to document and preserve the lived experiences, cultural knowledge and historical memory of Lahaina residents following the 2023 Maui wildfires. The project will produce up to 100 hours of recorded oral history interviews, including 40 hours conducted by COH and 60 hours led by trained educators, youth and community members.

National Endowment for the Humanities grant—$159,000

• Project: “Echoes of Wai (Water): Oral Histories from Maui”

“Echoes of Wai” seeks to document the voices and experiences of Maui residents through 30 oral history interviews. The project will conduct 20 interviews in West Maui, with a particular focus on Lahaina, where many residents were directly affected by the August 2023 wildfires. An additional 10 interviews will be conducted with residents of Central Maui, specifically within Nā Wai ʻEhā (The Four Great Waters), encompassing the districts of Wailuku, Waiehu, Waikapū and Waiheʻe.

American Council of Learned Societies Digital Justice grant—$100,000

• Project: “Nā Moʻolelo o Nā Wāhine: A Digital Justice Oral History Project Preserving Maui’s HerStories”

COH will expand its digital capacity by foregrounding the voices and experiences of women of color on Maui. Their leadership in education, labor, environmental stewardship and community life has shaped Â鶹´«Ã½ in profound yet often underrecognized ways. This project brings renewed attention to these narratives and deepens COH’s long-standing commitment to inclusive historical preservation.

National Endowment for the Humanities Chair Grant—$29,000

• Project: “Lahaina Jodo Mission Oral History Project”

The objective is to conduct oral histories that systematically capture the history, memories and lived experiences of temple elders and individuals who attended or lived at the Lahaina Jodo Mission. Through this partnership, COH will leverage community knowledge and preserve these stories for future generations. The information collected will support ongoing efforts to document the history of the Lahaina Jodo Mission as it rebuilds following the August 2023 Maui wildfires.

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Three years after the August 2023 wildfires on Maui, substantial steps forward have been made, but important gaps remain, according to a new report from the (UHERO) released on August 11. Housing has stabilized for many affected families, with more households in permanent homes, and some able to return to their communities. But employment and incomes have moved little over the past year. The report presents findings from the Maui Recovery Survey, an ongoing survey of people who lived, worked, or owned a business in West Maui or Kula at the time of the disaster.

Key findings from the August 11 report:

• Displacement has declined modestly. The share of households no longer displaced rose modestly over the past year, and fewer are displaced from both their home and West Maui. Of those displaced from both their home and West Maui in early 2025, about one in six have returned to West Maui but not yet to their home. Displacement also continues to extend beyond the burn area, where the share displaced from their home but remaining in the same area has risen.
• Housing stability has continued to improve. Homeownership has recovered slightly from 38% to 42%. For some, relief programs met needs that predated the fires. About 60% of those who were unhoused or in informal arrangements before the disaster had a rental by 2025, and a further 20% by 2026. About two-thirds of fire-affected households now live in permanent housing, up from just over half in early 2025. Households are also moving far less than in the first two years, and among those still in temporary arrangements the share at the same address for more than a year has tripled to almost two-thirds. However, overall rates of temporary and unstable housing remain elevated.
• Rental costs have eased for smaller properties, but remain heightened for larger units. Median rent for studios and one-bedrooms has fallen to roughly its pre-fire level by May 2026. Rents for larger units have stayed broadly flat and well above pre-disaster levels. Overall, almost half of fire-affected renters now pay less than before the fires (largely because of rental assistance), but at the same time almost 40% pay more. The share of households receiving full or near-full rental assistance has been cut by more than half, from 37% in January 2025 to 15% in May 2026.
• Employment continues to be an area of limited progress. 42% of fire-affected people work full-time, unchanged from a year earlier and still well below the 62% who did so before the fires. Unemployment has fallen from 10% to 8%, but exits from the labor market through retirement or no longer seeking work have risen from 26% to 30%. Even among working-age people, more than one and a half times as many are out of the labor force as before the disaster. Among people employed in the visitor industry before the fires, about two-thirds still work in the sector, with little change over the last year.
• Poverty levels have risen since the wildfires, but some improvements are emerging. The share of households in poverty has declined modestly over the past year but remains markedly above pre-fire levels, and most households are still poorer than before. The share of households above but near the poverty threshold has increased the most after the wildfires, but it has also been on a downward trajectory in the last few months.
• Unmet needs have declined slightly, but assistance has fallen substantially. Financial assistance remains the most frequently reported need. FEMA assistance has been cut in half over the last year and a half. Other government assistance has also declined, and only half as many people now receive help from community organizations compared with the start of 2025. About half of fire-affected people received no assistance of any kind in May 2026, almost double the share a year earlier. Some of this decline may reflect households regaining stability, but the scale suggests assistance has likely also fallen for households who still need it.

With support from the , UHERO will continue to monitor and analyze the progress of the recovery in its fourth year.

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UHERO is housed in Â鶹´«Ã½²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹â€™s .

Three years after the 2023 Maui wildfires, residents are showing meaningful signs of recovery—but persistent food insecurity, housing instability, health concerns and weakening social support continue to place many families at risk. That is the central finding of a new community report released July 27 from the (MauiWES), led by researchers at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½.

The report, “,” follows many of the same adults and children over time, allowing researchers to examine how their health and living conditions have changed since the disaster. The findings show that recovery is underway, but that progress remains uneven across Maui families.

MauiWES has conducted more than 4,000 appointments and screenings to more than 2,500 participants, providing residents with mental health assessments, blood pressure checks, lung function testing, blood testing, social needs screening, health information and referrals.

Key findings

• Employment among returning adults increased from 62.0% to 80.9%.
• Health insurance coverage increased from 85.1% to 90.5%.
• Participants living in temporary housing declined from 40.6% to 34.4%, while those who felt secure in their housing increased from 72.2% to 79.6%.
• Food insecurity remained widespread, affecting 44.9% of returning adults. The most severe level of food insecurity remained essentially unchanged at approximately 23%.
• High social support declined from 62.3% to 53.7%, suggesting growing recovery fatigue and strain on families and community networks.
• Nearly one in two adults continued to report depressive symptoms, approximately one in four screened with moderate-to-severe anxiety and nearly one in three reported post-traumatic stress symptoms.

“These findings show that Maui’s recovery is moving forward, with real progress in employment, insurance coverage and housing stability,” said Ruben Juarez, co-director of MauiWES and –HMSA Distinguished Professor of Health Economics. “The opportunity now is to build on that progress by connecting housing, food, healthcare and social support so that every family has the foundation needed to recover and thrive.”

The report identifies four closely connected foundations of long-term health recovery:

• Food and income security
• Stable and secure housing
• Access to healthcare and follow-up
• Strong family and community support

Researchers found that residents facing food insecurity, housing insecurity or limited social support consistently experienced greater emotional distress. For example, half of adults who felt insecure in their housing reported moderate-to-severe post-traumatic stress symptoms, compared with about one-quarter of those who felt secure.

“The progress is real, and it should be recognized,” said Alika K. Maunakea, MauiWES co-director and professor. “But the biological, emotional and social consequences of a disaster do not disappear on the same timeline as debris removal or reconstruction. Long-term recovery requires continued health monitoring, early intervention and trusted pathways to care.”

Children remain a priority

The report highlights mixed findings among children and adolescents. Overall anxiety and mild-to-moderate depression declined, but severe depressive symptoms increased from 11.8% to 15.1%, and severe post-traumatic stress symptoms increased.

Children’s lung function screening results improved but remained concerning, according to researchers. Stage 1-range blood-pressure readings and obesity also increased, reinforcing the importance of continued pediatric screening, school-based mental-health support and family-centered services.

“Children may appear resilient while still carrying significant emotional and physical effects beneath the surface,” said Christopher Knightsbridge, a MauiWES mental-health therapist based in Lahaina. “Supporting children means supporting the entire family—including their housing, food security, daily routines and access to trusted care.”

From screening to sustained care

The report calls for Maui’s recovery to move from separate emergency programs toward a coordinated health-recovery system connecting healthcare, behavioral health, housing assistance, food programs, schools, insurance enrollment and trusted community organizations.

“Screening cannot end with a result on paper,” Juarez said. “Every concerning result should become a supported pathway to diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Families should not be left to navigate a complicated recovery system on their own.”

MauiWES is a community-based partnership involving UH researchers, local healthcare providers, grassroots organizations and recovery partners across Maui.

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See more UH News stories on MauiWES. For more on MauiWES and information on resources, .

What is the most important trait of a journalist? It’s helpful to be a strong communicator. But ask editors and newsroom leaders what professional strengths are highly valued, and the answers include tenacity, curiosity and, perhaps foremost, someone with high ethical standards who is meticulous about fact-checking.

In May 2024, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser found someone who fit the bill. Victoria Budiono, a UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ double major in and , was hired as a reporter only a year after graduation. That’s partly because the now 23-year-old alumna held multiple internships and freelance opportunities while enrolled at the .

“We couldn’t be prouder of Victoria, or more grateful to UH, for preparing one promising student after another for our annual winter and summer internships,” said Dan Nakaso, Star-Advertiser capitol bureau chief. “Victoria quickly earned a reputation as a promising, smart, curious and respectful journalist who understood the importance of double- and triple-checking facts. Now she’s a general assignment reporter covering personal tragedies, triumphs and everything in between.”

Budiono grew up in Jakarta, Indonesia, and came to UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ after working on school newsletters and magazines from elementary through high school.

“I’ve always loved writing, talking to people and hearing their stories,” she said. “Through reporting, I saw how these stories could bring attention to issues that often went unnoticed, especially in Indonesia, where many topics are considered taboo, and people are often taught not to air their ‘dirty laundry.’”

Her passion for journalism grew throughout her three years at UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ and beyond through multiple learning experiences at news organizations and a nonprofit, including:

• A semester-long internship at Â鶹´«Ã½ Business Magazine, during which she contributed to a “My Jobs” series on people with unusual careers. She later returned as a freelance writer, producing feature stories that earned her a Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Â鶹´«Ã½ Chapter award.
• Freelancing at Honolulu Magazine and its sister company, Frolic Â鶹´«Ã½, where she wrote articles and did social media posts for the food and lifestyle website.
• A five-month internship at the Aloha Harvest marketing/communications department, where she helped to write reports, update mailing lists and produce a newsletter for the food rescue nonprofit.
• Working at Honolulu Civil Beat through an SPJ summer internship, specializing in general reporting assignments.
• A five-month internship with the ³§³Ù²¹°ù-´¡»å±¹±ð°ù³Ù¾±²õ±ð°ù’s Capitol Bureau, which transitioned into a full-time job as a general assignment reporter once the legislative session ended.

Budiono said she enjoys the eclectic nature of her work.

“Because I don’t cover a single beat, I am constantly learning about new topics and meeting people from different backgrounds,” she said. “On any given day, I might be reporting on government issues, housing, insurance, education or community events—subjects I knew very little about beforehand.”

Read more about Budiono’s journalism journey on the .

For decades, Professor Emerita Mary Tiles shaped the minds of students at University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa. Today, her philanthropic commitment to the university continues to impact the campus community. In recognition of her generosity and lifelong dedication to cross-disciplinary education, the (CSS) recently named its sustainability teaching honor the Mary Tiles Sustainability Teaching Award.

This year’s recipient is Felix Mantz, an assistant professor with the . His work closely aligns with Tiles’s vision of bridging the humanities and social sciences to solve modern global issues.

“This recognition means a great deal to me,” Mantz said. “My teaching and research are based on a commitment to challenge unjust systems of power. By looking at the myriad ways in which the global political economy, planetary environmental crises and colonial structures of power are entangled, I hope to inspire students to help recover, rebuild and defend a world in which many worlds fit.”

In her nomination of Mantz for the award, CSS senior sustainability advisor Aya H. Kimura said students have given positive reviews of his teaching and praised the impact he has had on them.

“Even outside of the classroom, Felix has been a huge support in mentoring me for my own research regarding food security,” said student India Buchanan. “Through teaching and mentoring, he has become my main resource for environmental justice related issues.”

More on Mary Tiles

A former chair of the UH Mānoa until her retirement in 2009, Tiles’s leadership in this role contributed to strengthening the department’s focus on interdisciplinary approaches, building on her own expertise in epistemology (the study and theory of knowledge) and the philosophy of science. Her academic work heavily explored the history and philosophy of science and technology. Tiles joined the department in 1989 after teaching at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and at Swarthmore College.

CSS Dean Denise Konan noted her close personal relationship with the professor emerita and her impact as a benefactor and scholar.

“I have had the distinct privilege of calling Mary a dear friend and colleague for many years,” Konan said. “Her brilliant mind and unwavering commitment to cross-disciplinary education have left an indelible mark on UH Mānoa. It is incredibly moving to see her legacy honored through an award that celebrates the very kind of innovative teaching she has always championed.”

Read the entire story by Simplicio Paragas on the .

University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa graduate candidate Ernest Bethe IV has been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Student Program scholarship for the 2026–27 academic year. After completing his master of degree from the this August, Bethe will embark on a 10-month research initiative in Ecuador. Based in Puerto Ayora—the fastest-growing town in the Galápagos Islands—he will investigate how overlooked urban spaces can be leveraged for ecological resilience (ability of ecosystems to adapt to environmental change).

Rethinking ‘informal’ green spaces

As tourism and development exert heavy pressure on the limited land resources of island ecosystems, Bethe’s research will look at cost-effective frameworks for sustainable growth. His project will focus on “informal green spaces”—such as vacant lots, roadside vegetation and unmanaged patches of land—and will examine their potential to:

• Support vital habitats for native bird species.
• Reduce localized flooding and mitigate the urban heat island effect (where built-up areas trap more heat than natural surroundings).
• Develop sustainable growth that balances tourism and development needs with limited land resources.

In Ecuador, Bethe will be hosted by the Charles Darwin Foundation, with a secondary academic affiliation at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador.

A model for island cities

The upcoming fieldwork builds directly on Bethe’s capstone project at UH Mānoa, which focused on ecological urban design. A core outcome of his Fulbright project will be a bilingual planning toolkit designed for local officials and community stakeholders in Ecuador. However, the implications of his work extend far beyond the Galápagos.

“Islands everywhere are dealing with the same issue: how do you grow without paving over the very thing that makes the place worth living in?” said Bethe. “If we can highlight how the green spaces we usually overlook are actually cooling our streets, soaking up stormwater, and giving our native birds somewhere to land, that’s a low-cost tool that any island city—including Honolulu—can put to work.”

Ashok Das, urban and regional planning professor and department chair, said, “Ernest’s winning the Fulbright award is a matter of great pride for our department, college and university. It is a testimony to his ability to apply multiple concepts in creative ways to advance a core mission of urban planning—sustainable development.”

“It also underscores his commitment to making vulnerable island communities more resilient. Having grown up in Indonesia and studied in Â鶹´«Ã½ have definitely shaped his worldview. He is multilingual, loves experiencing new cultures and thrives in multicultural settings. He will be a wonderful ambassador of the Fulbright program and UH Mānoa.”

The is administered by the U.S. Department of State and is one of the nation’s most prestigious international exchange initiatives. It aims to expand perspectives through academic and cultural exchange in partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide.

Owning a home remains out of reach for many Americans, but a new analysis from the (UHERO) suggests the housing affordability crisis may have reached its peak.

The analysis by UHERO Professor Byron Gangnes finds that housing affordability deteriorated sharply across the country beginning in 2021 as home prices surged and mortgage interest rates climbed. While affordability has improved modestly over the past two years because of rising incomes, slower home price growth and slightly lower mortgage rates, many housing markets remain unaffordable—especially Honolulu.

Using a measure based on what a median-income household can reasonably afford while spending no more than 30% of its income on housing costs, the analysis found Honolulu to be among the nation’s least affordable housing markets. In 2024, the median home price in Honolulu was about twice what a median-income household could afford.

Comparing Â鶹´«Ã½ to other U.S. areas

The report also found that cities once considered relatively affordable, including Charlotte, Atlanta and Dallas, have seen steep declines in affordability since the pandemic because home prices have risen much faster than incomes.

Nationally, affordability has improved since its recent low point as wage growth has helped households keep pace with housing costs and mortgage rates have eased from their highs. Even so, the report said many moderate-income families, particularly those earning below the median income, continue to face significant barriers to homeownership.

Gangnes noted that affordability can continue to improve over time as incomes rise and borrowing costs decline, but said policy changes will also be needed. The report points to strategies such as increasing housing construction, streamlining permitting, encouraging smaller homes and expanding assistance with down payments and mortgage costs to help make homeownership more attainable.

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UHERO is housed in UH Mānoa’s .

Whether you recognize his voice from Spectrum Sports broadcasts, his face from local television newscasts, or his name from the award-winning production company RKT Media, Ryan Kalei Tsuji seems to be everywhere. But before he was an Emmy-winning CEO, a protocol officer for the governor, or the owner of a booming cocktail bar, Tsuji’s dynamic journey began at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹.

Growing up as a sports fan in Hilo, Tsuji wanted to be a TV reporter and always dreamed of attending UH. Driven by this passion, he earned bachelor’s degrees in communications and political science in 2007, followed by a master’s degree in public administration in 2009. During his time at UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹, he also worked his way up from a manager to an assistant coach for the nationally ranked Rainbow Wahine volleyball team under legendary coach Dave Shoji.

“I was like Van Wilder, I was at UH for eight years getting all these different degrees because UH was paying for it,” said Tsuji. “It was an opportunity for me to just really be a part of the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ system and I just loved my experience and time there.”

Tsuji parlayed his education into a multi-faceted career. He launched the video production company RKT Media in 2016, co-hosts the interactive program Spotlight Now, and has been recognized with multiple honors, including being named to Pacific Business News’ 40 Under 40. In 2022, he opened The Lei Stand, a bar and lounge, in Chinatown. Now located in WaikÄ«kÄ«, The Lei Stand will be expanding to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

Celebrating alumni entrepreneurship

The Lei Stand is one of nearly 40 vendors confirmed for the 5th Annual UH Alumni Makers’ Market on Wednesday, July 29, at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel. The event is dedicated to showcasing food, drinks and products from alumni-led businesses. .

“It’s a great way to reconnect with former alumni, but also an opportunity to just really be proud of where we came from and all the talent that stayed here in Â鶹´«Ã½ and is giving back to the community,” Tsuji said.

Presented by the UH Office of Alumni Relations in partnership with the UH Alumni Association, a portion of the proceeds will go toward addressing current UH student needs statewide. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, email .

A new international study co-authored by a University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa researcher found that drifting devices used by the global tuna fishing industry are entering marine protected areas around the world, creating potential risks for wildlife and sensitive ocean habitats.

The study, , analyzed publicly available data on drifting fish aggregating devices (dFADs)—floating rafts equipped with GPS technology that help commercial fishing fleets locate tuna. Researchers estimated the devices have likely drifted through more than half of the world’s marine protected areas by total area.

The findings are especially relevant for Â鶹´«Ã½ and the broader Pacific, where vast marine protected areas coexist with some of the world’s busiest tuna fishing grounds. Researchers found hotspots for dFAD interactions in the central Pacific, western Indian Ocean and Caribbean. They also documented at least 6,300 strandings of the devices in 174 protected areas across 53 maritime jurisdictions.

When these floating structures wash ashore or become trapped on reefs, they can damage coral, contribute to plastic pollution and entangle marine animals such as sea turtles and sharks. The study identified nearly 500 at-risk species living within protected areas where dFAD strandings have been observed.

John Lynham, a professor in the UH Mānoa and in the and a study co-author, said the research highlights an unintended consequence of modern tuna fishing technology.

“Marine protected areas are designed to safeguard ocean ecosystems, but drifting fishing devices do not recognize those boundaries,” Lynham said. “Our findings show there is an opportunity for the fishing industry, governments and conservation groups to work together on practical solutions that better protect these important places.”

The findings come as the future of marine protected areas has drawn renewed attention in the U.S. following President Donald Trump’s decision to lift restrictions on commercial fishing in some marine national monuments. The study itself focuses on the broader issue of drifting fishing devices crossing protected boundaries regardless of whether fishing is allowed inside those areas.

The researchers emphasized that while the fishing industry has made progress by developing less harmful and more biodegradable devices, additional steps are needed. They recommend stronger regulations, greater transparency in tracking the devices and better systems to retrieve them before they become marine debris. The study also found that the burden of removing stranded devices often falls on local communities and marine managers, including those in small island nations that may not benefit economically from the fisheries responsible for the equipment.

This article by Native Hawaiian Initiative Alakaʻi (coordinator) at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ Kamakanaokealoha Aquino was first published in .

A new graduate certificate in will be offered at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹. A partnership between the Department of Urban and Regional Planning in the College of Social Sciences and the KamakakÅ«okalani Center for Hawaiian Studies in the Â鶹´«Ã½nuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge, this graduate-level certificate offers students and professionals an in-depth understanding of Indigenous Peoples, processes, and practices to enrich urban and regional planning.

Through planning and several consultations over the past 2 years, Priyam Das, a professor in urban and regional planning, and Konia Freitas, a specialist in Hawaiian studies, developed a program that will prepare students to engage respectfully with Indigenous worldviews, knowledge systems, and methodologies; to apply Indigenous and Hawaiian-informed approaches to land use, sustainability, housing, and community development; and to center planning practices around core values such as pilina, kuleana, and aloha, with a focus on ethics, equity, and inclusion.

Students and professional planners will be equipped with culturally grounded tools to navigate complex land-use, social, and environmental challenges. This certificate requires the completion of six courses: one required course in the foundations of Indigenous planning; one capstone course on an individual project of analysis, plan preparation, policy, and program evaluation; and selection of four elective courses from planning, Hawaiian studies, geography, law, natural resource management, political science, or Pacific Island Studies.

This new graduate certificate is the latest collaboration between the urban and regional planning and Hawaiian studies departments, which began in 2017, when both departments signed a memorandum of agreement allowing urban and regional planning graduate students to enroll in designated Hawaiian studies courses with prerequisites waived.

Then, in Fall 2022, a bachelor’s-to-master’s degree pathway was established. Students can pursue a bachelor’s degree in Hawaiian studies through a master’s degree in urban and regional planning within a shorter timeframe of 5 years by double-counting up to three courses at the undergraduate tuition rate. Students are able to save money and time to enter the workforce.

These programs will help build capacity in the planning workforce in Â鶹´«Ã½ and across the Pacific that centers Indigenous values, concepts, and methodologies in the field of planning.

The University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa will host a special public lecture by renowned minister and scholar Lawrence Edward Carter Sr.: “Moral Courage and Nonviolent Transformation.”

, sponsored by Sokka Gakai International–USA and the Tony Group Foundation, is free and open to the community. It will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, in the Architecture Auditorium on the UH Mānoa campus. .

Interfaith dialogue, nonviolent conflict resolution

Carter, who served as the dean of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel and a professor of religion at Morehouse College, will retire on June 30. His work has spanned decades, focusing on the intersection of religion, ethics and nonviolence.

At Morehouse, Carter founded the Gandhi King Ikeda Institute for Ethics and Reconciliation, which facilitates interfaith dialogue; nonviolent conflict resolution based on the philosophies of Mohandas Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Buddhist peacebuilder Daisaku Ikeda; and the International Hall of Honor, a gallery featuring more than 300 portraits of global leaders dedicated to civil and human rights. He is also an acclaimed author, with works including A Baptist Preacher’s Buddhist Teacher and Global Ethical Options: In the Tradition of Gandhi, King, and Ikeda.

“It is an honor for us to welcome Dr. Carter to the UH Mānoa campus at the conclusion of his storied 40-plus year career in teaching, mentoring and global engagement,” said incoming UH Mānoa Chancellor and interim Provost Vassilis. L. Syrmos. “His lifelong commitment to foster global peace education and human rights is truly remarkable.”

Conversation: nonviolent transformation, moral courage of leadership

Following Carter’s presentation, the event will transition to a panel discussion moderated by Maya Soetoro of the Spark M. Matsunaga Institute for Peace. The panelists joining them are Brien Hallett of the Matsunaga Institute for Peace, Ann Hartman of East-West Center and Adin Strauss of Soka Gakkai International–USA. The conversation will touch upon the practical applications of nonviolent transformation in contemporary society and the role of moral courage in leadership.

After the discussion, Carter will be able to sign copies of A Baptist Preacher’s Buddhist Teacher, which will be available for purchase at the event. Furthermore, those in attendance will have the chance to secure one of five complimentary copies through a special drawing provided by the UH Bookstore.

The lecture is presented by the UH Mānoa Office of the Chancellor in coordination with the Better Tomorrow Speaker Series, with support from the Matsunaga Institute for Peace, East-West Center, UH Mānoa College of Education, United Nations Association–Honolulu Chapter and Peacebuilding LLC.

As the 2026 World Cup draws millions of spectators to stadiums across North America, the University of Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s (NDPTC) is training emergency managers, first responders, transportation agencies and stadium operators on risk management and preparedness for extreme weather events.

NDPTC is a Congressionally-authorized, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funded national center which is part of the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium. Based at the UH Mānoa and funded by FEMA and the U.S. Department of Transportation, the training courses on “Extreme Weather Preparedness for World Cup Cities” was developed by subject matter experts in extreme weather, urban planning, transportation, emergency managers and stadium operations in U.S. host cities.

Managing potential extreme weather threats

The training focuses on assessing and mitigating risks associated with extreme heat, lightning, tornadoes, flash flooding and wildfire smoke. Participants learn to use publicly available data, planning tools and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve understanding of extreme weather risk and prioritize actions to increase safety and security for large-scale events.

“Large public events require organizations to prepare for hazards that can change rapidly and affect transportation systems, critical infrastructure and public safety,” said Karl Kim, professor of urban and regional planning in the UH Mānoa and founding executive director of NDPTC. “Our role is to equip planners and decision-makers with practical tools and evidence-based strategies so they can anticipate risks and respond effectively when conditions change.”

The work involves downscaling climate and extreme weather models to the specific times and locations for the games and identifying protective actions to reduce harm to spectators and those participating in the World Cup. With teams and fans coming from different countries, there are many challenges with communications and coordination. NDPTC uses AI to support readiness and for different applications in urban planning and disaster management. Kim said that since many people are using AI, it is important to incorporate these tools into the work on risk management.

Extending NDPTC‘s impact beyond the tournament

The effort builds on NDPTC‘s broader mission of strengthening disaster resilience nationwide. Working with partners through the Pacific Southwest Region University Transportation Center and Federal Railroad Administration Consolidated Rail Infrastructure Safety Improvements program, the center develops risk assessment tools and provides training for emergency managers, first responders and community leaders across the country.

The World Cup training is updated regularly as guidance, operational requirements and weather conditions evolve. The curriculum also contains lessons learned from NDPTC‘s broader work in disaster preparedness and risk management. Since its establishment, the congressionally authorized center has trained more than 75,000 first responders and emergency managers nationwide, reinforcing UH’s role as a leader in disaster preparedness education and applied research.

The World Cup weather preparedness and latest recording of the training on NDPTC’s are available for the public.

University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa graduate students across a wide range of disciplines took their research beyond the classroom this spring, translating complex ideas into hands-on experiences for Oʻahu middle school students through the inaugural Graduate Research Outreach Workshop (GROW).

The three-week program in April brought together a cohort of 10 students to strengthen their ability to communicate research in clear, engaging ways for non-specialist audiences. Participants learned to summarize their work in jargon-free language, discuss its real-world importance and create interactive exhibits that make research accessible to the public.

The workshop culminated in a research outreach fair at Waipahu Intermediate School, where approximately 60 students in career and technical student organization programs explored exhibits led by the graduate students. Waipahu Intermediate faculty advisers and school administrators also attended the event, which highlighted higher education opportunities and showcased the diverse research taking place at UH.

“Research has the greatest impact when people can understand it and connect it to their own lives,” UH Mānoa Fellowships, Scholarships, and Professional Development Coordinator Kristen Connors said. “GROW gave our graduate students the opportunity to practice an essential professional skill while also building meaningful relationships with young learners who may one day pursue their own paths in higher education and research.”

The program was organized by the , and Interim Assistant Vice Provost for Student Academic Success Amy Hubbard, Hamilton Library and the .

Beyond developing communication skills, the program aimed to build stronger connections between the university and the community while encouraging younger students to see themselves as future researchers, innovators and problem-solvers.

A post-program evaluation found participants responded positively to the experience. All respondents said the workshop met their expectations and that they would recommend it to others. Most also reported feeling more prepared and confident explaining their research through writing, visuals and conversations with public audiences.

Gov. Josh Green appointed University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa undergraduate student Eric Pōmaikaʻi Gee to the (BOR), subject to confirmation by the Â鶹´«Ã½ State Senate. Gee replaces Regent and JD candidate Joshua Faumuina, whose term ends in June 2026. If confirmed, Gee will serve a two-year term beginning on July 1, 2026.

“I’m honored to serve University of Â鶹´«Ã½ students from all islands and campuses, and I look forward to ensuring their voices are heard while working alongside the Board of Regents,” Gee said. “I’ve always been passionate about youth empowerment, and I hope to further that work through my role as the new student member of the Board of Regents.”

An Honors student at UH Mānoa, Gee is pursuing an and double major from the , with a minor in from the . Born and raised in South Kohala on Â鶹´«Ã½ Island, he graduated as valedictorian from Kealakehe High School in 2024.

Gee has held leadership roles at both the county and state levels, serving as inaugural chairperson of the County of Â鶹´«Ã½ Youth Commission and as a treasurer of the Â鶹´«Ã½ State Youth Commission, where he helped develop youth policy and advised government leaders. His experience also includes work on sustainability and education initiatives with Â鶹´«Ã½ Green Growth and cultural programming through Traditions Â鶹´«Ã½.

As a Villars Institute Fellow, Gee participated in a 2025 expedition to Antarctica as the only American selected for the international mission led by polar explorer Robert Swan. During the expedition, he joined scientists, educators and young leaders in research activities and live educational broadcasts with classrooms around the world, promoting climate stewardship and raising awareness about the importance of protecting Antarctica. He also was selected for the World Affairs Councils of America Student Scholars Program and appeared in the PBS documentary series “Rethinking Higher Ed.”

• Related UH News story: Antarctica to Mānoa: UH student joins global effort to protect a fragile continent, December 16, 2025

The BOR is responsible for overseeing the 10-campus UH system, including policy direction, financial oversight and long-term strategic planning. The BOR is the governing body of UH and consists of 11 non-compensated volunteer members. Representation includes five from the City and County of Honolulu; two from Â鶹´«Ã½ County; two from Maui County; one from Kauaʻi County and one UH student.

A national report co-authored by a University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa sociologist found that while the humanities and social sciences continue to produce rigorous and valuable scholarship, some disciplines are experiencing instances where scholarly standards have been compromised as political considerations shape research and academic evaluation.

The , was written by a committee of scholars from universities across the country, including Associate Professor Ashley Rubin in the UH Mānoa in the . The group examined concerns about declining public confidence in the humanities and allegations that ideological commitments have influenced scholarship in some academic fields.

“This report is a major milestone because, beyond our findings, it represents an interdisciplinary group of scholars standing up for scholarly rigor and not letting political goals corrupt the research enterprise or the standards by which research is evaluated,” Rubin said.

The committee reviewed research and academic practices across philosophy, anthropology, sociology, history, literary studies and music studies. It concluded that the most serious concerns arise when political goals are allowed to override traditional scholarly standards centered on evidence, objectivity and open inquiry.

According to the report, these concerns generally fall into three categories:

• Treating contested issues as settled science in ways that discourage debate
• Prioritizing narratives that advance social or political goals over the pursuit of understanding
• Rejecting the idea that objective facts and evidence can be separated from political values

The authors identified examples and patterns they point to as consistent with these trends to varying degrees across the disciplines they studied. However, they rejected claims that the humanities and social sciences are broadly failing as academic fields, emphasizing that scholars in these fields are still producing serious and impactful scholarship.

The report recommends that universities should promote intellectual openness, rigorous standards and the free exchange of ideas while resisting efforts to judge scholarship based on ideological conformity. It also cautions against political pressures from outside academia, including attempts by governments or advocacy groups to influence research and teaching.

The authors conclude that the humanities and humanistic social sciences remain essential to higher education because they help people better understand culture, history, society and human experience. Maintaining scholarly rigor, they contend, is critical to preserving public trust in those disciplines and in universities more broadly.

The report was commissioned by the chancellors of Vanderbilt University and Washington University in St. Louis.

A significant reduction in flood damage and erosion across urban Honolulu can be achieved by protecting native forests and controlling invasive species in the Ala Wai watershed, according to a new interdisciplinary study by researchers at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa and state and community partners released May 26.

The research examined how invasive species such as albizia and miconia affect flooding in the Makiki, Mānoa and Pālolo watersheds. Researchers found that unmanaged spread of the invasive plants over the next decade could nearly double expected annual flood damages from $68 million to $134 million.

The study was released following the March 23 flash flooding in Mānoa that overtopped Woodlawn Bridge, flooded homes and left mud across parts of the valley, including Noelani Elementary School. Researchers said healthy native forests act like a natural sponge by slowing stormwater runoff and stabilizing steep slopes. Invasive species can weaken those protections by increasing erosion and clogging streams with fallen trees and debris.

The research team combined hydrological monitoring data with land cover and economic modeling to measure the impacts of watershed management efforts led by the Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership and the Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee.

“The results show decreased streamflow for a given rainfall amount in Makiki and Mānoa, where albizia and miconia were detected and removed most often,” the authors wrote, noting that runoff reductions were observed within just a few years of invasive species removal.

The study also projected that unchecked invasive species growth would more than double annual Ala Wai Canal dredging costs from about $1.4 million to $3 million because of increased sediment runoff. Researchers said the findings highlight the need for long-term funding to support watershed protection and invasive species management programs across Â鶹´«Ã½.

Project team members:

• Yu-Fen Huang (NREM)
• Yinphan Tsang (NREM)
• Leah Bremer (Institute for Sustainability and Resilience, UHERO, WRRC)
• Conrad Newfield (ISR, UHERO)
• Emma Yuen (Department of Land and Natural Resources–Forestry and Wildlife)
• Kimberly Burnett (UHERO)
• Nathan DeMaagd (NREM, UHERO)
• Jean Fujikawa (Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee)
• Nate Dube (Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee)
• Erin Bishop (Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee)
• Serene Smalley (Koʻolau Mountains Watershed Partnership)

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UHERO is housed in UH Mānoa’s .

For Liliana Okimoto, a year away for college in Washington State provided a realization that no school in the continental U.S. can offer what the can: a deep sense of community and purpose. That was the focus of her winning #TakeMeToMānoa social media contest video hosted by .

In her minute-long entry, Okimoto said, “Â鶹´«Ã½ is where my heart is and under the guidance of the amazing faculty and staff at UH Mānoa, I know I can grow into the person I want to become—someone who devotes themselves to learning in order to better serve their community, so take me home. Take me to Mānoa.”

As the winner out of nearly 60 entries, Okimoto won a free year of tuition at UH Mānoa, courtesy of (UHFCU). The online contest, which was open to incoming fall 2026 Â鶹´«Ã½ freshmen and transfer students, asked entrants to explain why UH Mānoa is the right place for them or how a year of free tuition would impact their future.

Billy V from Â鶹´«Ã½ News Now made the surprise announcement to Okimoto live on Sunrise on May 22, in front of cheering UH ²ÑÄå²Ô´Ç²¹ employees and students at the UH Mānoa Bookstore.

“I was just in shock and I was so happy,” Okimoto said. “I didn’t realize what it was and then I saw the check. I was like, ‘oh my goodness.’”

Okimoto grew up in Waiʻanae and attended Island Pacific Academy before graduating from ʻIolani School in 2025. At UH Mānoa, Okimoto will pursue a degree in in the , and is also considering a pre-health track. She is also passionate about art and is considering medical school to become a psychiatrist, with a possible goal of one day leading a medical practice that offers psychological care and creative therapies such as art therapy.

“I had gone to school on the mainland and I could tell that I don’t know if this is what’s right for me and I always just kept thinking about coming home, being back here,” Okimoto said. “And so I was really looking at UH and what programs are here and what they have to offer. I really think that being back at home and being at UH specifically is what’s best for me.”

This will be a full circle moment for Okimoto, who will attend UH Mānoa at the same time as her mother, Michelle, who is in the graduate program for library and information science. Michelle is a librarian at ʻIolani.

“It’s really exciting,” Michelle said. “I wish that I had completed all of the education I wanted to do when I was younger, so I’m definitely gonna encourage her to do that, but I think it’s really cool that we’re gonna go to the same school, go to the same events and maybe even carpool sometimes. I’m just so glad to have her home. It’s icing on the cake that we get to be students together. I’m looking forward to studying together and cheering each other on!”

The contest ran from April 6 to May 3. Now in its eighth year, the contest continues to spotlight the dreams, creativity and determination of Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s students.

“I am delighted to congratulate Liliana, the winner of this year’s #TakeMetoMānoa contest,” said Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos. “As our first transfer student to receive this honor, she is a shining example of a student returning home from the continent for whom finding the right fit is of utmost importance, and we are glad to be that destination of choice for her. We are proud to welcome her to our UH Mānoa ʻohana and look forward to the impact she will have on our community.”

“We’re very proud of being able to support the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa and also the students here and bringing her back home,” said UHFCU AVP of Member Experience Sean Parsa. “We’re proud of her and we’re proud of being part of the University of Â鶹´«Ã½.”

Meet the previous #TakeMeToMānoa winners.

McKenzie Kurosu is the first University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa / graduate to earn a . It is issued by the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB), which is operated by the Public Relations Society of American (PRSA). The certificate demonstrates a fundamental competency and knowledge for college graduates entering the public relations profession.

Kurosu is a May 2025 graduate who double majored in communication and journalism from the . She received the certificate in December 2025 after taking required courses and passing an exam.

“This certificate really helps bridge the gap between what you learn in a classroom and real-world applications,” said Kurosu. “Having this on a résumé helps you stand out to recruiters, and serves as a great first step to pursue an APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) designation later in your career.”

Public relations or related majors may apply for the certificate, but must be members of PRSA or student chapters of UAB participating organizations. At UH Mānoa, Kurosu completed the public relations coursework while serving as a vice president and director of communications of the David A. Ward chapter of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America). Kurosu said belonging to PRSSA was a career-defining experience.

“Beyond the leadership roles, I had the chance to travel to California for the ICON conference, and network with professionals and peers who share my passion for the industry,” she said.

For more information about the certificate and to check eligibility, or contact PRSSA faculty advisor Ji Young Kim at jkim22@hawaii.edu.

The Frances Davis Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching for a faculty member and a graduate assistant recognizes dedication and demonstrated excellence as teachers of undergraduate students. It was established as a memorial to the late Frances Davis, who taught mathematics at Leeward Community College and the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at Mānoa for 19 years.

Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant

Elisabeth “Lis” Gallant is an assistant professor of geology at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ Hilo. She teaches volcanology the way Â鶹´«Ã½ demands it be taught—with one foot in science and the other firmly planted in the communities that live alongside active volcanoes.

Since joining UH Hilo in 2023, she has revamped UH Hilo’s volcanology course offerings, using everything from M&Ms to knit fabrics to bring magma chambers and rock textures to life. Her students practice translating vog forecasts for civil defense officials, Volcano Village kupuna, and first-time tourists—learning that good science means nothing if people can’t use it.

Drawing on her work co-leading the national GeoSPACE accessible field camp, Gallant has made UH Hilo’s field courses more inclusive, ensuring students of every ability can do real fieldwork. She mentors undergraduates into published research with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and leads community talks during Volcano Awareness Month.

Student Steven Hammes said Gallant is “easily in the highest tier” of the dozens of instructors he has had across multiple colleges and universities, with a special ability to bring students of diverse learning styles, backgrounds and challenges to the same high standards of content mastery.

Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin

Ariel Gruenthal-Rankin is an assistant professor of anthropology in the division of social sciences at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½–West Oʻahu, and serves as the director of the Applied Forensic Anthropology Certificate. Gruenthal-Rankin is a forensic anthropologist for the state of Â鶹´«Ã½, whose research explores how forensics can better account for people often overlooked by medicolegal systems.

She is particularly passionate about the integration of critical social theory and community-facing work in forensic anthropology. Gruenthal-Rankin honed her teaching and mentorship pedagogy over 14 years of teaching in STEM, both in classrooms and in field environments. Her philosophy emphasizes sharing mutual respect, harnessing the excitement of learning, and allowing students to have a say in how classes are shaped.

According to the UH West Oʻahu Teaching Awards Committee, students describe Gruenthal-Rankin as kind, thoughtful and highly engaging, with many highlighting her positive, enjoyable learning environment. Committee members noted that Gruenthal-Rankin’s “qualities reflect a sustained and exceptional commitment to effective, inclusive, and impactful teaching.”

Lolita Pérez-Ayala

Lolita Pérez-Ayala is a PhD candidate in the communication and information sciences interdisciplinary program in the College of Social Sciences at UH Mānoa. Committed to connecting theory to real-world contexts and fostering inclusive participation, she integrates sociotechnical research with organizational and business examples to promote applied learning and student agency.

Her courses examine the design and effects of information technologies and explore organizational and cross-cultural communication through real-world analysis. She gathers student feedback early and engages students in collaborative activities that apply course concepts to organizational cases. These practices encourage problem solving and move students beyond content mastery toward applied, reflective learning.

A nominator said, “Lolita possesses a remarkable ability to translate her expertise into meaningful learning experiences. She demonstrates exceptional skill in engaging students and fostering deep learning. Her courses are well organized and integrate a number of innovative tools to engage students. Lolita fosters critical thinking and bridges the gap between theories and real world experiences.”

Pérez-Ayala emphasizes student agency in selecting organizations or causes aligned with their interests, resulting in engagement with a wide range of local nonprofits, cultural institutions and businesses.

Shawn Sumiki

Shawn Sumiki is the culinary arts coordinator at Â鶹´«Ã½ Community College. He was born and raised in Hilo, Â鶹´«Ã½, and is a 1996 graduate of the Â鶹´«Ã½ CC culinary arts program. After gaining experience in the culinary industry, he returned to his alma mater in 2006 as a lecturer, bringing a strong commitment to both his craft and his students.

In his current role, he mentors and guides students as they develop the skills and discipline needed for successful careers in the culinary field.

“Chef Shawn is truly in love with what he does, and it shows in every aspect of his work,” said student Amanda Klunk. “His passion for cooking, his dedication to feeding people, and his commitment to taking care of others are truly inspiring.”

Sumiki’s dedication to teaching and service has been recognized with the Outstanding Lecturer Award (2012–13), the Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Service (2019), and the Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching (2022–23).

Student Casey Chow said he looks forward to the week more than the weekend due to the nurturing environment and Sumiki’s encouragement.

Lisa M. Vallin

Lisa Vallin is an instructor in the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies in the College of Social Sciences at UH Mānoa. Her work centers on creating inclusive, engaging and socially relevant learning environments in sexuality studies.

With more than 15 years of teaching experience, she brings a research-informed and intentional approach, emphasizing critical thinking, cultural awareness and student-centered learning. Her classroom fosters a strong sense of community where students feel seen, affirmed and supported in exploring complex and often sensitive topics with curiosity and respect.

Through innovative assignments, community partnerships and guest speakers, students connect theory to practice and engage issues such as reproductive justice and HIV advocacy. Vallin is known for her approachable teaching style and commitment to equity and inclusion, helping students become informed and engaged community members.

“Lisa Vallin is a phenomenal professor. Every day, she had us all in the palm of her hand, completely enveloped in her presentations,” said a student. “I wish I could take a class of hers every semester. I have recommended her classes to everyone I can because everyone can benefit from learning from her and exploring the topics taught in her courses.”

Brian Yamamoto

Brian Yamamoto is a professor of natural sciences at Kauaʻi Community College. For more than 40 years, he has embodied the spirit of Frances Davis, an inspired teacher dedicated to sharing knowledge with undergraduates in natural sciences. Throughout his decades of service at Kauaʻi CC, his passion has never waned—whether in the lab, the field, meeting with a student or teaching at high schools.

His commitment to undergraduate excellence is evidenced by the robust success of the Academic Subject Certificate (ASC) in Hawaiian Botany. Through Yamamoto’s leadership, 46 early college students have successfully earned their ASC in Hawaiian Botany since 2022. He has a unique ability to connect botany to students’ lived experiences, such as helping Native Hawaiian students apply botanical knowledge directly to their own lōʻi (taro patch).

Yamamoto has said, “One must be willing to get dirty, feel the wind at your back, and explore with your senses wide open. Let nature be the teacher. Nature will always present the truth, we just need to interpret it correctly.”

A former student said, “His classes were the highlight of my college experience.” That student now aspires to become a teacher, because Yamamoto made learning so engaging.