The University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa introduced : a free, comprehensive call-for-papers (CFP) aggregator tailored for the legal academy. It offers real-time information on CFPs for conferences, symposia, workshops, law reviews and scholarly blogs. By leveraging a tiered system of artificial intelligence (AI) agents,

The Docket indexes more than 500 active sources—continuously discovering, classifying and triaging opportunities under expert human supervision. Legal scholars from around the world can now search the site, subscribe to filtered email digests, and export deadlines directly to their calendars.

“The Docket reflects the kind of work we strive to cultivate at Richardson,” UH law school Dean Camille Nelson said. “By expanding access to opportunities for legal scholars, this initiative strengthens the exchange of ideas that is essential to advancing justice.”

Law Professor Guy Rubinstein identified the need for a centralized legal CFP aggregator and initiated the project.

“There have never been more opportunities for law professors to present, share and publish their work,” said Rubinstein. “However, due to the abundance of listservs, blogs and social media platforms, it is becoming increasingly difficult for scholars to track every opportunity. I wanted to create a tool that would bridge that gap by bringing everything into one view.”

Institutional growth

After a successful trial period and feedback from UH law school faculty, the platform was officially launched to the community. Professor Brian Huffman, UH law school’s electronic services librarian and director of faculty development, sees the tool as a vital resource for institutional growth.

“The Docket uniquely supports faculty development and scholarship by spotlighting publishing and presentation opportunities, enabling faculty to engage quickly and strategically with the broader academic community,” said Huffman. “The library supports this project in its effort to help faculty research and promote their scholarship as well as improve professional development. Other peer institutions will also certainly benefit from The Docket as this site is free and open to all.”

Collaboration brings project to life

To bring the vision to life, Rubinstein collaborated with Benjamin Leider, the innovation fellow at the UH law school. A UH law school alumnus whose background bridges the gap between academic scholarship and technical development, Leider built the platform from the ground up.

“Surprisingly, getting AI to do real work was much more like management than dealing with technology,” Leider said. “AI agents need clearly defined jobs, and they need the right tools to do them. When they fail, it’s almost always because job expectations are unclear, or because the tools provide a bad user experience—a bad experience for the agents themselves—or because you’re expecting one agent to have the expertise of three specialists.”

Lexie Tilton came to University of �鶹��ý at Hilo from Oʻahu‘s ʻIolani School on a softball scholarship—and somewhere between the diamond and the dean’s list, she found her real fight. This spring 2026, she graduates with a and a , headed to UH’s law school with one clear mission: helping local families afford to stay in �鶹��ý.

Initially drawn to UH Hilo for the opportunity to play Division II softball on scholarship, Tilton quickly fell in love with the island’s welcoming environment.

“I love the community here. They say this campus is the most diverse in the world, and it has always felt very inviting and supportive, especially for the athletic community,” shared Tilton, UH �ᾱ����’s #4 outfielder and 2025 PacWest Conference Co-Defender of the Year.

The transition from a structured high school to the freedom of a university setting allowed Tilton, who has repeatedly earned recognition for maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.30 or higher as a student-athlete, to flourish.

Tilton holds great pride in the world-class education she received. She emphasizes the prestige of the , which is accredited by the AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), the highest standard for business schools worldwide.

Tilton reflected on the close-knit but powerful nature of the entire university.

“We’re small, but we’re feisty, and we get it done,” she said.

Tilton shared that her academic trajectory was profoundly shaped by UH �ᾱ����’s dedicated faculty. These academic connections proved vital for Tilton, who is already a licensed real estate agent. Inspired by her mother, a first-generation college graduate and realtor, she has sights set on an incredibly noble goal.

This fall, she will attend the to become a real estate attorney. Her mission is to combat the state’s soaring housing prices.

“We want to be able to empower locals to become homeowners by creating more affordable housing so they’re able to stay here,” Tilton explained, citing sobering statistics of how many �鶹��ý natives are forced to move away to make ends meet.

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Ten graduate programs at the are in the nation’s top 50, and an additional 17 programs are in the top 100, according to the 2026 , released on April 7.

UH Mānoa’s (JABSOM) also placed in the nation’s top tier (tier 1) for best medical schools for primary care, and UH �ᾱ����’s ranked in a in the nation.

The highest ranked UH Mānoa programs were in the , ranking No. 18 (tied) for best environmental law programs and law schools with most grads in federal clerkships, No. 24 for best part-time law programs, No. 41 (tied) for best international law programs, No. 47 (tied) for best dispute resolution programs and No. 48 (tied) for best legal writing programs.

The ranked No. 22 (tied) for best international programs, and the (SOEST) placed No. 40 (tied) for best Earth sciences programs. JABSOM ranked No. 42 for most graduates practicing in rural areas and No. 45 for most graduates practicing in primary care.

“UH Mānoa’s strong showing in the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings underscores our commitment to excellence in teaching, research and student success,” said UH Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos. “These results reflect the talent and dedication of our faculty, students and staff, and �鶹��ý can take pride in knowing their university is preparing the next generation of leaders and changemakers for our community and the world.”

Rankings were based on multiple factors, including research activity (such as publications and citations), student and alumni outcomes (employment and earnings), quality assessments (from peers and recruiters), student selectivity (GPA and test scores), and faculty resources (doctoral degrees awarded and student-to-faculty ratios).

Note: not all programs are ranked every year. See these UH News stories on previous years’ rankings: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019.

Jump to program rankings:
William S. Richardson School of Law  |  John A. Burns School of Medicine  |  Shidler College of Business  |  School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology  |  School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene  |  College of Education  |  Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health  |  College of Social Sciences  |  College of Engineering  |  College of Natural Sciences  |  College of Arts, Languages & Letters

William S. Richardson School of Law

The William S. Richardson School of Law was ranked in 16 categories by U.S. News and World Report. In addition to its ranking of No. 18 (tied) for best environmental law programs and law schools with most grads in federal clerkships, No. 24 for best part-time law programs, No. 41 (tied) for best international law programs, No. 47 (tied) for best dispute resolution programs and No. 48 (tied) for best legal writing programs, the �鶹��ýlaw school placed No. 91 (tied) among the top law schools in the nation.

Other law school rankings include:

• Tax law: No. 80 (tied)
• Criminal law: No. 88 (tied)
• Contracts/commercial law: No. 92 (tied)
• Health care law: No. 92 (tied)
• Constitutional law: No. 95 (tied)
• Business/corporate law: No. 101 (tied)
• Clinical training: No. 102 (tied)
• Intellectual property law: No. 127 (tied)
• Trial advocacy: No. 175 (tied)

John A. Burns School of Medicine

JABSOM was one of 16 schools that placed in the nation’s top tier (tier 1) for best medical schools for primary care. JABSOM also placed in tier 3 for best medical schools for research.
In addition, JABSOM ranked No. 42 for most graduates practicing in rural areas, No. 45 for most graduates practicing in primary care, No. 139 for speech language pathology and No. 171 for most graduates practicing in medically underserved areas. .

Shidler College of Business

The Shidler College of Business placed in nine subject areas. Leading the way were international programs at No. 22 (tied), accounting programs at No. 68 (tied), information systems programs at No. 72 (tied) and marketing programs at No. 91 (tied). In addition, Shidler ranked at No. 104 (tied) for best management programs, No. 113 (tied) for best executive programs, No. 123 (tied) for best finance programs, No. 125 (tied) for best entrepreneurship programs and No. 142 (tied) for best part-time MBA programs.

School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology

SOEST placed No. 40 (tied) among the nation’s best Earth sciences programs.

School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene

The School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene placed No. 55 (tied) for best nursing school–master’s and No. 62 (tied) for best nursing school–doctor of nursing practice (DNP). Both were the only programs in �鶹��ý to be ranked by U.S. News and World Report.

College of Education

The College of Education ranked No. 57 (tied) in the U.S., the 21st straight year the college has been listed as one of the nation’s top 100 education programs. Nationally accredited since 2000, the College of Education continues to be recognized for its award-winning programs and people.

Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health

The ranked No. 89 (tied) among the nation’s top public health schools and programs in the U.S. accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health. The Department of Public Health Sciences offers a ; a , with specializations in , , and , and a , as well as PhD program in , specializing in community-based and translational research and a PhD in . The Department of Public Health Sciences is also home to an online master of public health program to meet workforce demands.

College of Social Sciences

The College of Social Sciences placed among the nation’s best in at No. 90 (tied) and at No. 92 (tied).

College of Engineering

The ranked among the nation’s best in at No. 91 (tied), at No. 92 (tied), and at No. 128 (tied). The College of Engineering overall ranked No. 164 (tied) among the top engineering schools in the U.S. that grant doctoral degrees.

College of Natural Sciences

The placed among the nation’s best in at No. 97 (tied), and at No. 115 (tied), and at No. 125 (tied).

College of Arts, Languages & Letters

UH Mānoa placed No. 106 (tied) among the nation’s best for fine arts programs.

Other rankings

UH Mānoa also received these notable rankings:

• 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings by Subject, March 25, 2026
• 2025 U.S. News and World Report best online programs, January 27, 2026
• 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, January 21, 2026

President Lee Jae Myung of South Korea appointed University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa Professor as the Ambassador for South Korea to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), recognizing his decades-long leadership in human rights scholarship, international law and public service.

“I am delighted to bring the insights I have developed during my tenure as a professor at the , to the OECD, in my commitment to serving the global community,” Baik said.

International human rights, comparative law

Baik, a globally respected scholar of international human rights and comparative law, has been a member of the UH law school since 2011. His appointment marks a significant milestone for the UH law school and underscores the global impact of its faculty.

“Professor Baik’s appointment as an ambassador is a tremendous honor for him and for our entire community,” UH law school’s Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Troy J.H. Andrade said. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and democratic governance. His expertise and moral leadership will serve the people of Korea and the international community well.”

Before joining UH, Baik taught at the University of British Columbia and served as director of the Korean Legal Studies Program. At the UH law school, he has taught courses in international human rights law, international criminal law, comparative law and Korean law, while mentoring students interested in global justice and public service. He also served as the director of UH’s Center for Korean Studies.

Baik is recognized for his work on transitional justice, human rights systems in Asia and international accountability mechanisms. From 2015 to 2022, he served as an independent expert with the United Nations Human Rights Council Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, where he held leadership roles as vice-chair and later chair-rapporteur. In that capacity, he worked with governments, civil society organizations, and families of victims to investigate and address cases of enforced disappearance worldwide.

As �鶹��ý faces rising sea levels, housing pressures and growing calls for the return of to community stewardship, the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� will host a day of bold conversations focused on solutions. On March 4, the annual at 8 a.m. at East West Center will gather leaders, scholars and community advocates to examine how land, law and justice intersect and what that means for �鶹��ý’s future.

Now in its fifth year, the summit carries the theme ʻĀinahoʻi: Land, Law and Justice. ʻĀinahoʻi means “indeed that which feeds us.” The phrase is both reminder and call to action that the future of �鶹��ý is tied to how we care for the ʻ�徱�Բ� that sustains us.

“We established the Piʻo Summits to advance ancestral knowledge and courageous leadership to address the cascading challenges of our times,” said Kamanamaikalani Beamer, professor at UH ����ԴDz� and the . “�鶹��ý deserves the best and the Piʻo Summits bring critical issues to the head of our table and we sit with the community to find ways to carve out a better future.”

Voices for ʻ�徱�Բ�

This year’s summit begins with music from two-time Grammy nominee Raiatea Helm and a keynote from Justice Joe Williams of Aotearoa, a respected Māori jurist known for advancing Indigenous rights within modern legal systems.

Throughout the day, panels will feature leaders from �鶹��ý’s largest landholders serving Native Hawaiian communities, including the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Kanaka ʻŌiwi (Native Hawaiian) advocates will join scholars and professors from UH ����ԴDz�’s and departments, as well as the William S. Richardson School of Law, to explore the future of ʻ�徱�Բ� stewardship and justice in �鶹��ý.

“This year’s summit will highlight the collective effort for ʻĀinahoʻi across the ,” Beamer said. “We will be exploring how communities are navigating and challenging existing systems through legal methods, land trusts, and grassroots action to restore , strengthen relationships to ʻ�徱�Բ�, and advance self-determined governance grounded in ancestral innovation and courageousness.”

Ancestral innovation

The summit is organized by Pōʻai Ke Aloha ʻĀina, a UH-based lab that works to solve modern challenges using ʻike �鶹��ý (ancestral Hawaiian knowledge). The lab is helping build a new center focused on an ancestral circular economy, a model rooted in regeneration and long-term stewardship.

Christian de Quevedo, a University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa alumnus, founded Lēʻahi Landscaping after identifying a disconnect between the importance of �鶹��ý’s built environments and the standards of the industry serving them. Landscapes shape some of the state’s most visible and valuable spaces, yet the work behind them is often noisy, emissions-heavy and unreliable.

In �鶹��ý’s unique setting, Lēʻahi takes a site-specific approach to sustainability and land stewardship at residential and commercial sites. Using drone mapping and environmental modeling, the team evaluates sun exposure, wind, drainage and soil conditions before design begins. This leads to smarter decisions and fewer unnecessary inputs. As climate pressures and wildfire risks increase, resilience guides the work—prioritizing landscapes that are environmentally appropriate, safer over time and that deliver value to property owners.

“I couldn’t find a service that matched the standards expected in other professional sectors, so I set out to build one,” said de Quevedo, who graduated from the JD/MBA program in 2021.

A defining principle of de Quevedo’s entrepreneurial journey has been adaptation. He believes �鶹��ý businesses can no longer rely on geographic isolation or outdated practices. He said local companies are now measured against national and global standards.

He credited his law degree from the with shaping his analytical approach and his MBA program with giving him the tools to act, scale and execute, and said that his Shidler experience reinforced systems thinking, disciplined operations and long-term value creation.

He also emphasized that none of Lēʻahi’s success would be possible without Kaimalu Stanich, his business partner, close friend and a graduate of UH Mānoa’s , or without the Lēʻahi team. Since founding the company, he said all profits have been reinvested into growth, systems and employees, reflecting a belief that long-term success begins with investing in people.

For the entire story and more stories like this, see the .

Human rights lawyer and University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� alumnus Julian Aguon is one of four changemakers around the world who have won the Swedish Right Livelihood Foundation’s annual award in 2025.

“I am deeply honored to accept this award on behalf of my entire team at Blue Ocean Law,” said Aguon. “I could not have done this work without each and every one of them, starting with my erudite co-lead, Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, and the incredible team we assembled to take on this case.”

‘Carrying the call for climate justice to the world’s highest court’

The Right Livelihood Foundation cited Aguon for “carrying the call for climate justice to the world’s highest court.” Aguon, together with the Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, was selected by an international jury for their collective efforts to secure a unanimous advisory opinion on climate change from the International Court of Justice.

The opinion, delivered in July 2025, found that countries have binding obligations under international law to protect the climate system for present and future generations. In its historic decision, the Court recognized the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, declaring it essential to the realization of all other rights.

In Aguon’s case, the jury also recognized his longstanding advocacy on behalf of the Chamorro people of Guam, who continue to struggle under U.S. colonization.

“I proudly accept this award on behalf of my people, the Chamorro people, and indeed all of us in Micronesia, who continue to resist the militarization of our homelands, who continue to insist upon our right to live in the world on our own terms and our children’s right to do the same.”

Established in 1980 to “honour and support courageous people solving global problems,” the Right Livelihood Award has become widely known as the ‘Alternative Nobel Prize.’ Past winners from the U.S. include civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson, award-winning journalist Amy Goodman, and famed whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg. There are now 203 Laureates from more than 80 countries.

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To address the holistic needs of University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� students, including food insecurity, mental and emotional health and practical skill-building, an inaugural gift from the Class of 1985 launched the Professor Calvin G. C. Pang Student Wellness and Benevolence Fund. The fund honors the legacy of Pang, a celebrated mentor and classmate known for his compassion and service to the UH community. This new resource integrates health and professional development directly into the educational experience at the UH law school.

“We are grateful to the Class of 1985 for their profound recognition that true academic excellence and the growth of future lawyers are nurtured when health, wellness and professionalism are placed at the heart of the educational journey,” said UH law school Dean Camille Nelson.

Besides supporting initiatives that promote student well-being and address essential needs, the fund will provide resources for workshops and training in areas such as budgeting, time management, exam preparation, networking and other professional skills that support student success.

Student food pantry, emergency situations

In addition, the fund will support a discreet student food pantry offering nutritious options such as fresh produce, meal kits and frozen meals, along with the equipment and facilities needed to store and prepare food safely. Resources may also be used to assist students facing urgent or emergency situations and to support community meal opportunities that foster connection and belonging.

Establishing this fund addresses clear and growing needs among law students. Surveys of UH law students across all class years and programs show that many face significant financial and wellness challenges, including food insecurity and stress that directly affect their ability to focus and succeed academically.

UH law students facing food insecurity or other needs can email lawadss@hawaii.edu for more information.

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Five subject areas were placed in the world’s top 1%, and an additional four earned top 2% honors in the 2026 , released on January 21.

Education led the way, ranked in the No. 101–125 tier, followed by physical sciences at No. 126–150, arts and humanities at No. 151–175, and law and life sciences each at No. 201–250. To qualify in the world’s top 1%, rankings must be within the top 250 in the world () UH Mānoa was ranked in all 11 of the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject lists.

“We are proud that UH Mānoa continues to be recognized globally, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence, research and the student experience,” UH Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos said. “These rankings underscore the hard work and dedication of our faculty, students and staff, who make UH Mānoa a truly exceptional place.”

All UH Mānoa rankings:

• Education studies: No. 101–125
• Physical sciences: No. 126–150
• Arts and humanities: No. 151–175
• Law: No. 201–250
• Life sciences: No. 201–250
• Social sciences: No. 251–300
• Medical and health: No. 301–400
• Psychology: No. 301–400
• Business and economics: No. 401–500
• Computer science: No. 501–600
• Engineering: No. 501–600

Times Higher Education considers the following factors for its rankings: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry income and international outlook. Regarded as one of the leading national and international university rankings focused on research and academic excellence, Times Higher Education considered between 425–1,555 of the top institutions for each of its subject rankings, out of more than 25,000 institutions worldwide, to be eligible for its World University Rankings by Subject.

Other rankings

UH Mānoa also received these notable rankings:

• 2025 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, January 4, 2026
• 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, October 9, 2025
• Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, October 2, 2025
• U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings, September 23, 2025

For more information, .

The is celebrating two decades of education, scholarship, and community advocacy on issues affecting Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders and Indigenous peoples. The center is part of the at the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa.

In recognition of this milestone, Councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina, on behalf of the Honolulu City Council, presented an honorary certificate to Ka Huli Ao at Honolulu Hale. The presentation honored the center’s enduring contributions to Native Hawaiian legal education and community engagement.

“Ka Huli Ao is grateful to the Honolulu City Council for this tremendous honor, which is a reflection on Chief Justice William S. Richardson’s enduring legal legacy to �鶹��ý and our people,” said Kapuaʻala Sproat, director of Ka Huli Ao and professor of law. “Ua Ao �鶹��ý! In Ka Huli Ao’s 20th year, this guiding theme reminds us that even in our most challenging moments, the path forward is illuminated by �鶹��ý’s enduring legal foundations, grounded in loina (customs, principles, laws) and ʻike kuʻuna (ancestral knowledge), which continue to guide us toward the light of tomorrow.”

Founded in 2005 by Professor Melody Kapilialoha MacKenzie through a Native Hawaiian Education Act grant, Ka Huli Ao has become a cornerstone of Native Hawaiian law. The center established the first–ever Native Hawaiian Law Certificate program, published Native Hawaiian Law: A Treatise, provides training to the community and decision makers, operates a post–JD legal fellows program, shapes future leaders and leads the Native Hawaiian Law Clinic that provides direct legal services to our neighbor island communities.

Kapiʻolani Community College is marking a major milestone: 50 years of providing as the state’s only American Bar Association (ABA) approved program. Since its founding in 1975, the program has established a profound legacy of service, access and leadership, producing generations of legal professionals who are deeply embedded in the state’s justice system.

Paralegal program graduates serve in law firms, state agencies and nonprofit organizations, making an impact across �鶹��ý communities. They are essential to organizations such as the Legal Aid Society of �鶹��ý, Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation, �鶹��ý Innocence Project, the Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office and the State of �鶹��ý Department of Attorney General.

“For 50 years, our paralegal graduates have been working in the places where the community needs them the most,” said Kimberly Koide Iwao, program chair. “Under the supervision of licensed attorneys, our students have helped clients navigate legal challenges ranging from housing disputes, to family matters, to wrongful conviction reviews.”

Community service roots

The program’s roots are firmly planted in community service, tracing its origins to Robert J. “Bob” LeClair, a Legal Aid Society attorney. LeClair secured leadership funding to establish �鶹��ý’s first Legal Assistant Program at Kapiʻolani CC, quickly becoming recognized as a national model for paralegal education defined by academic rigor and community service. Professor Susan Jaworowski (who is retired today), modernized the curriculum by incorporating online and hybrid instruction to keep students at the forefront of a changing legal landscape.

Under Iwao’s leadership, the program continues to evolve. In 2024, it became one of the first in the nation to launch an artificial intelligence certification for paralegal students. Internships and community engagement remain central, giving students vital real-world training while providing critical staffing support to �鶹��ý’s legal services. Students regularly engage in pro bono work, and a developing partnership with the �鶹��ý Judiciary will expand opportunities for placements within the courts.

“Kapiʻolani CC’s paralegal program has strengthened �鶹��ý’s legal community and expanded pathways for students to make meaningful contributions to justice and society,” said Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “�鶹��ý’s legal system relies on skilled legal support professionals, and our graduates are prepared to serve with integrity and commitment.”

The is one of the nation’s best colleges and universities, according to The Princeton Review’s 2026 edition of “” guide, released on August 12.

The rankings are solely based on its surveys of college students about their schools. The schools included in the “The Best 391 Colleges” of 2026 are not ranked from No. 1–No. 389, and feature the top approximately 15% of four-year colleges in the U.S.

In addition, The Princeton Review placed UH Mānoa as one of the top 79 colleges in the west.

“What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it’s based on our students’ own experiences,” said UH Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos. “Their voices reflect the vibrant learning environment, strong sense of community and unique opportunities they find at UH Mānoa.”

In October 2024, The Princeton Review also named UH Mānoa one of the nation’s top “green” colleges, which recognizes the most environmentally responsible schools.

High marks for law school

The has been No. 1 for Most Diverse Faculty in The Princeton Review’s “” rankings. This national recognition underscores the strength of the law school’s faculty and its ongoing commitment to excellence in legal education rooted in �鶹��ý’s unique history, values and place in the Pacific.

The UH law school was also named No. 5 Best for State and Local Clerkships and No. 5 Most Chosen By Older Students, further affirming its reputation for meaningful career preparation and support across a wide range of student backgrounds and goals.

The Princeton Review evaluates , including institutional data and student survey responses, to compile its annual Best Law Schools lists.

More about ‘The Best 391 Colleges’

The Princeton Review collected 170,000 surveys of students at the schools in The Best 391 Colleges (about 435 per school on average). The surveys were conducted in 2024–25 and/or the previous two academic years. The 98-question survey asked students to rate their professors, administrators, financial aid, campus amenities, school services and other aspects of life at their colleges on a five-point scale, and to report on their experiences at them.

“The colleges we profile in our ‘Best Colleges’ book are a truly select group. They constitute only about 15% of America’s nearly 2,400 four-year institutions,” said Rob Franek, editor-in-chief of The Princeton Review and the book’s lead author. “While they vary by locale, type, size and campus culture, each one offers its students an academically outstanding undergraduate education. In our opinion, they are the nation’s best undergraduate colleges and ideal choices for students seeking their ‘best-fit’ college. The colleges that make our ranking lists do so entirely as a result of their own students’ opinions of them.”

Recent rankings

UH Mānoa also received these notable rankings:

• 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation, July 24, 2025
• 2026 QS World University Rankings, June 19, 2025
• 2025 Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings, June 2, 2025
• 2025 Carnegie Classifications, April 24, 2025

A high-profile immigration case involving a deported U.S. Army veteran has drawn national attention. The legal case is being led by University of �鶹��ý law school alumnus Danicole Ramos and the UH ����ԴDz� .

Ramos, a 2023 graduate of the , represents Sae Joon Park, a , father of two, and South Korea–born U.S. Army veteran who was directed to self-deport on June 23, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The case has received widespread media coverage and was . It has sparked renewed debate about immigration policy, veterans’ rights and the treatment of noncitizen service members.

Case highlights flaws in immigration law

With the support of an Equal Justice Works Fellowship, Ramos has continued his commitment to immigrant justice after graduating. He works with the Refugee & Immigration Law Clinic under the guidance of faculty mentors.

“In every way but on paper, Mr. Park is an American,” said Ramos. “He took two bullets for this country, swore an oath to defend the Constitution, and earned a Purple Heart. Despite his past mistakes, he worked hard to overcome his struggles, raise two children and care for his elderly parents. His story is the American story, and it resonates with so many.”

Park immigrated to the U.S. as a child and enlisted in the U.S. Army in his early twenties. After returning from active duty, he experienced post-traumatic stress disorder. His struggles with mental health and addiction led to a drug possession conviction and a missed court appearance. Those charges became the basis for a removal order that ultimately led to his deportation under current immigration law.

The Refugee & Immigration Law Clinic at the William S. Richardson School of Law provides legal services to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers who face significant legal and systemic barriers. Under the supervision of clinic faculty, UH law students work on real-client cases that reflect the school’s commitment to justice, the rule of law, and service to the community.

“Mr. Park’s deportation has revealed deeply ingrained flaws in our immigration legal system, which often refuses to acknowledge and accept the complexities of the human experience,” said Esther Yoo, director of the Refugee & Immigration Law Clinic. “Thanks to Mr. Park’s willingness to share his story, the public has become more aware of some of the injustices perpetrated by the system.”

Support grows to bring veteran home

Public support for Park has grown steadily since his deportation. A urging the Queens County District Attorney’s Office in New York to reopen Mr. Park’s case and vacate the charges has gained thousands of signatures.

The launched the Soifer Lecture Series, a platform for critical discussions on law, justice and society featuring leading legal scholars.

The inaugural lecture was delivered by Professor , distinguished professor at Rutgers Law School and co-director of the Rutgers Institute of Information Policy & Law. Goodman explored a timely question: “Should we Americans still revere the law, and if so, how can that reverence be made justifiable and effective?”

Drawing on Abraham Lincoln’s Lyceum Address, she examined the role of law in today’s society, emphasizing human agency and power amid the challenges posed by technology-driven subordination.

The series honors Professor Emeritus Avi Soifer, a renowned constitutional law scholar and former dean whose impact on legal education and scholarship continues to resonate. This new series is made possible by a generous gift from the Hundt Family Foundation and other supporters.

Following the lecture, attendees celebrated Soifer’s contributions to the legal community and the law school. Soifer served as dean from 2003 to 2020 and continued teaching and writing until his retirement in summer 2024. Known for his unwavering commitment to justice, he has mentored countless students and colleagues throughout his distinguished career.

The next lecture is scheduled for March 2026.

A University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� law student is gaining national recognition for using technology to expand access to justice. Benjamin Leider, a third-year student at the at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�, has been named one of . The honor celebrates future legal leaders making a difference in their communities.

His standout achievement: developing a Chrome extension that helps people clear their criminal records. The tool automatically determines eligibility for expungement and fills out the required forms, saving time, cutting through red tape and offering hope to those who can’t afford legal help.

“Ben perfectly combined the technology and legal requirements to make the app work,” wrote The National Jurist in its April issue.

From coding class to courtroom impact

Leider began building the application after enrolling in Richardson’s “Coding for Lawyers” course. He later joined Innovator-in-Residence Matthew Stubenberg on a legal tech project aimed at improving the expungement process in �鶹��ý. From designing legal logic trees to coding and testing the software,

Leider played a lead role in bringing the tool to life. The application had its soft launch at a free legal clinic in September 2024, helping 72 people start the expungement process on the spot. Its success caught the attention of the �鶹��ý Office of the Public Defender, which asked for an added feature to assist with bench warrant recalls, a request Leider implemented earlier this year.

In the profile, Leider encouraged future lawyers to pursue purpose-driven careers. “Look at the job market and your skills; choose your path accordingly. If you want to make a difference in the world or in society, go with what moves you, and be determined,” he stated.

Leider is currently developing an AI-powered mock trial simulator that lets users upload case materials and participate in interactive trials—blending technology and experiential learning in a way that could transform legal education.

“We could not be happier for Ben,” said Law School Dean Camille Nelson. “His engagement has been as innovative as it has been transformative. He is an exemplary recipient of this national recognition.”

Camille A. Nelson, dean of the at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�, has been named the 2025 Outstanding Woman Lawyer by (HWL). This award recognizes individuals who have contributed to advancing women in the legal profession and promoting equal opportunity. Nelson was recognized at the HWL Annual Awards Ceremony on April 17.

“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to receive this award from �鶹��ý Women Lawyers,” said Dean Nelson. “It is a privilege to be part of a profession where we can uplift and empower one another, and I remain committed to expanding opportunity and cultivating the next generation of women leaders in law. Mahalo nui loa to HWL and to my incredible colleagues and students at Richardson Law who inspire me every day.”

Service, leadership, innovation

Nelson, who has led �鶹��ý’s Law School since 2020, is recognized for her service, leadership and innovation. A nationally respected legal scholar and administrator, she has served as dean at three law schools—breaking barriers as the first woman and first person of color in each of those roles—and has mentored generations of students, scholars and legal professionals throughout her distinguished career.

In January 2025, Nelson was also awarded the 2025 Deborah L. Rhode Award from the American Association of Law Schools. This award recognizes individuals who advance leadership, professional responsibility, pro bono service and gender equality in law.

Since joining the UH law school, Nelson has launched several initiatives to expand access and empower students. These include the Island Leadership Lab, Business Bootcamp, and Innovator in Residence program, aimed at enhancing leadership skills, financial literacy, and legal technology. She also helped establish the to improve access to legal education for students on neighbor islands and in the Pacific region.

Under her leadership, Richardson Law earned the 2024 American Bar Association Diversity Leadership Award and has been ranked among the top 100 law schools in the nation. The school is known for its strengths in Native Hawaiian law, environmental law, international law and part-time legal education.

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s was awarded a $250,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to support the development of innovative approaches to professional identity formation in legal education.

Led by Eduardo R.C. Capulong, law professor and director of experiential learning, the two-year initiative, “Pluralizing Professional Identity,” will create new educational materials, host symposia and provide training opportunities that promote ethical, reflective lawyering practices.

“The law school curriculum needs to address the needs and experiences of all of our students,” said Capulong, the principal investigator of the grant. “And especially now, it needs to model lawyering practices that promote democracy and the rule of law.”

Said law school Dean Camille Nelson, “This grant affirms our commitment to preparing future lawyers who are grounded in integrity, guided by purpose, and ready to meet the moment.”

Values, principles, well-being practices

The effort aligns with American Bar Association accreditation standards requiring law schools to intentionally explore the values, principles, and well-being practices foundational to legal practice.

Partnering with faculty from the University of Montana, University of Washington and Georgia State University, the project will engage students, faculty and professionals in conversations that reflect the increasingly diverse backgrounds and experiences of today’s law students.

Nationally recognized for its engaged learning environment, the William S. Richardson School of Law continues to lead in shaping the next generation of legal professionals prepared to navigate a rapidly changing legal landscape.

Seven graduate programs at the are in the nation’s top 50 and an additional 14 programs are in the top 100, according to the 2025 , released on April 8. The (JABSOM) also placed in the nation’s top tier (tier 1) for best medical schools for primary care.

The highest ranked programs were in the , ranking No. 16 for best part-time law programs, No. 36 for best environmental law programs and No. 45 for best international law programs. The Library and Information Science Program in the ranked No. 36. JABSOM ranked No. 41 for most graduates practicing in primary care and No. 47 for most graduates practicing in rural areas, and the ranked No. 43 for best nursing schools, doctor of nursing practice.

Rankings were based on different criteria, including research activity (publications and citations), placement success (employment and earnings), quality assessment (peer and recruiter assessments), student selectivity (GPA and test scores) and faculty resources (doctoral degrees awarded and student to faculty ratio).

“These latest rankings from U.S. News and World Report reflect UH ����ԴDz�’s unwavering dedication to academic excellence and impactful research,” said UH ����ԴDz� Provost Michael Bruno. “They speak to the strength of our graduate programs and the hard work of our faculty, students and staff. �鶹��ý residents can take pride in knowing that their flagship university continues to shape the next generation of leaders, educators and innovators for our state and beyond.”

Note: not all programs are ranked every year. See these UH News stories on previous years’ rankings: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019.

Jump to program rankings:
William S. Richardson School of Law  |  John A. Burns School of Medicine  |  School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene  |  College of Education  |  College of Engineering  |  Shidler College of Business  |  College of Social Sciences  |  Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health  |  College of Arts, Languages & Letters  |  College of Natural Sciences

William S. Richardson School of Law

The William S. Richardson School of Law was ranked in 15 categories by U.S. News and World Report. In addition to its ranking of No. 16 for best part-time law programs, No. 36 for best environmental law programs and No. 45 for best international law programs, the UH ����ԴDz� law school placed No. 99 out of nearly 200 of the best law schools in the nation.

Other law school rankings include:

• Legal writing: No. 51
• Dispute resolution: No. 72
• Criminal law: No. 82
• Tax law: No. 95
• Constitutional law: No. 98
• Contracts/commercial law: No. 98
• Business/corporate law: No. 108
• Intellectual property law: No. 123
• Clinical training: No. 125
• Health care law: No. 128
• Trial advocacy: No. 178

John A. Burns School of Medicine

JABSOM was one of 16 schools that placed in the nation’s top tier (tier 1) for best medical schools for primary care. JABSOM also placed in tier 2 for best medical schools for research.

In addition, JABSOM ranked No. 41 for most graduates practicing in primary care, No. 47 for most graduates practicing in rural areas and No. 166 for most graduates practicing in medically underserved areas. JABSOM also placed No. 155 for speech language pathology. .

School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene

The School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene’s doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program was ranked No. 43 among 158 of the top schools in U.S. News and World Report’s best nursing schools ranking. UH ����ԴDz�’s nursing school is the only �鶹��ý DNP program ranked by U.S. News and World Report since 2018.

College of Education

The ranked No. 65 of 258 schools ranked, the 20th straight year the college has been listed as one of the nation’s top 100 education programs. Nationally accredited since 2000, the College of Education continues to be recognized for its award-winning programs and people.

College of Engineering

Four graduate programs were ranked among the best in the nation, according to U.S. News. placed No. 90; ranked No. 91; and placed No. 124. The College of Engineering ranked No. 163 among the top engineering schools in the U.S. that grant doctoral degrees.

Shidler College of Business

The rose 29 spots to No. 137 out of 241 ranked schools for its part-time master of business administration (MBA) program. Shidler’s MBA programs are the only MBA programs in �鶹��ý accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and among the few MBA programs in the U.S. with a true Asia-Pacific focus.

College of Social Sciences

In addition to the Library and Information Science Program ranking No. 36, the College of Social Sciences had the following programs placed in the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings: at No. 78, at No. 82, at No. 104, at No. 107, at No. 113 and at No. 124.

Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health

The ranked No. 99 out of 219 public health schools and programs in the U.S. accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health. The Department of Public Health Sciences offers a ; a , with specializations in , , and , and a , as well as PhD program in , specializing in community-based and translational research and a PhD in . The Department of Public Health Sciences is also home to a recently launched online master of public health program to meet workforce demands.

College of Arts, Languages & Letters

In the , the placed No. 97 and the ranked No. 104.

College of Natural Sciences

In the , the ranked No. 110.

Other rankings

UH ����ԴDz� also received these notable rankings:

• 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings by Subject, March 12, 2025
• UH ����ԴDz� earns highest national research designation, February 20, 2025
• 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, January 23, 2025

When Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana, Colette Pichon Battle saw more than flooding. She saw deep cracks in the systems meant to protect people. Since then, she’s made it her life’s work to help communities rebuild—not just their homes, but their power. Hosted by the University of �鶹��ý Better Tomorrow Speaker Series this April, Pichon Battle will host a public lecture to share insights from her transformative work.

The presentation, Reclaiming Democracy: From Disaster Recovery to Community Governance, is free and open to the public, and will be held on Wednesday, April 16 at 6:30 p.m. in Kuykendall Auditorium, Room 101 on the UH Mānoa campus (register online).

“The University of �鶹��ý has a key role to play in disaster preparedness and recovery,” said UH Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno. “We know the recovery process is long and complex, and so we’re looking forward to talking with Colette Pichon Battle about building community resilience over years and even decades.”

Rooted in justice

Pichon Battle will share lessons from years of grassroots recovery work that centers justice, sustainability and local leadership. As founder of Taproot Earth, she combines Indigenous environmental knowledge with strategies from the Black freedom struggle to reimagine community governance.

“We are honored to host Colette Pichon Battle on Oʻahu. The organizing work she and her team have done in New Orleans and elsewhere has helped communities build back not just structures but spirit,” said Michelle Kaʻuhane, chief impact officer of �鶹��ý Community Foundation.

This lecture is part of the Better Tomorrow Speaker Series, a collaborative initiative of the �鶹��ý Community Foundation, Kaiāulu by Kamehameha Schools, UH Mānoa and the Learning Coalition.

The University of �鶹��ý is hosting two events on March 31, 2025, to empower UH students, faculty, staff and community members with essential knowledge about their rights and responsibilities, particularly in today’s rapidly changing political landscape. These events will offer valuable resources, foster dialogue and help create a more engaged community.

‘Know Your Rights’ immigration law webinar

“Know Your Rights: A Practical Guide to Constitutional Rights and Immigration Enforcement,” is a free webinar from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The event aims to ensure that individuals understand their rights and obligations should they encounter U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other law enforcement officials.

The session will provide guidance on navigating interactions during home raids, street stops and encounters at school or the workplace. Hear from a panel of professionals, including:

• Minda Yamaga, assistant federal defender, District of �鶹��ý Office of the Federal Public Defender
• Stella Shimamoto, associate attorney, immigration, Hirota & Associates; past chair, �鶹��ý Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
• Sherry Nohara, managing attorney, Noha Immigration Law; former senior attorney, U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement; chair, �鶹��ý Chapter, American Immigration Lawyers Association
• Esther Sungeun Yoo, assistant professor of law and director, Refugee and Immigration Law Clinic, Clinical Law Program, William S. Richardson School of Law

Participants will receive multilingual materials to help them confidently handle situations with law enforcement. This event is co-sponsored by the Refugee and Immigration Law Clinic at the UH ����ԴDz� William S. Richardson School of Law and the Office of Compliance, EEO, and Title IX at the UH Community Colleges.

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Students’ conversation on speech, law and pilina

UH ����ԴDz� Pilina Support Team invites UH community members to attend “From Fear to Empowerment: A Student-Focused Conversation on Speech, Law, and Pilina” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Services, Room 412. This in-person event—focused on free speech, university rules, and responsible communication—aims to move from fear to empowerment through pilina (connection), in light of the current national political climate.

Presenters include: Lauren Robel, lecturer in law, William S. Richardson School of Law, and Camaron Miyamoto, director of the LGBTQ+ Center at UH ����ԴDz�. Participants will engage in an interactive session to share reactions to hypothetical scenarios.

Light refreshments will be provided. .