University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� public health and nursing alumna Aime Le has been crowned the 74th Cherry Blossom Festival Queen, one of �鶹��ý’s longest-running ethnic festivals hosted annually by the Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce. Her fellow contestants also voted her Miss Congeniality in recognition of her compassion, professionalism and interpersonal leadership.

“As queen, I serve as a cultural ambassador representing �鶹��ý through community service, educational outreach and cultural exchange programs locally and internationally,” said Le.

Le earned dual bachelor’s degrees in and in 2020 and a bachelor of science in nursing in 2022. She was also inducted into the Japanese National Honor Society–College Chapter for academic excellence in Japanese language studies.

During her time at UH ����ԴDz�, Le participated in student leadership and service organizations including Mortar Board National Honor Society, Hui Ola Pono Public Health Club, HOSA-Future Health Professionals and Atherton YMCA community programs. She also took part in medical mission and service-learning trips to the Philippines and Kauaʻi and completed a rural clinical rotation in Yap, Micronesia.

“My time in Yap further strengthened my appreciation for community-centered healthcare and cross-cultural connection,” Le said.

Supporting kūpuna through community care

Now a nurse practitioner, Le earned her degree in the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner track from the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene at UH ����ԴDz� in spring 2025. In fall 2025 and spring 2026, Le volunteered with the Memory Café at the UH ����ԴDz� Center on Aging, a free monthly garden-based program for people living with memory loss and their care partners.

“At the Memory Café, I can help support dementia-friendly spaces for kūpuna and caregivers through nature-based activities, social connection and community engagement,” she said.

Le hopes to continue bridging healthcare, culture and community service throughout her career while advocating for compassionate, inclusive care across generations.

“We are so privileged to have someone like Aime be a part of the Memory Café,” said Christy Nishita, a gerontologist with the Center on Aging. “The combination of her personal qualities and professional training has made her the ideal volunteer. She has helped to nurture not only our garden but also the growth of human relationships among students, staff and community participants. I know she will make a superb Cherry Blossom Festival Queen.”

Three members of the 2026 Cherry Blossom Court also have UH ties: Princess Lauren Sayuri Katayama and First Princess Jacqueline Kiemi Osumi are UH ����ԴDz� alumnae, while Princess Kiʻilaweau Kakie Aweau is a current public health PhD student.

A service dog who supported nursing students and faculty at the University of �鶹��ý at Hilo became an honorary member of the Class of 2026 at the school’s Spring Nursing Pinning Ceremony.

Liam, a service dog belonging to Assistant Professor Tracy Thornett, crossed the stage wearing a custom stole after spending the past two years attending lectures, labs and clinical rotations alongside students. The senior class voted to pin Liam during the ceremony in recognition of the comfort and support he brought to the cohort.

“He’s literally the best dog I’ve ever had,” said Thornett.

From reject to service dog

Born in Pāpaʻikou, Liam was unable to be registered with the American Kennel Club because of an overbite. Thornett originally planned for him to become a therapy dog, but those plans changed during the COVID-19 pandemic and a difficult period in her personal life as she cared for her mother during cancer treatment outside �鶹��ý.

“I just felt myself unraveling,” Thornett said. With support from her doctor, Liam became her official service dog.

A classroom companion with lasting impact

Liam helped Thornett continue teaching while also becoming a familiar presence for nursing students. She introduced him to her junior nursing class in fall 2024 and openly shared how his companionship supported her mental health and well-being.

Liam later became a staple in nursing labs and classrooms, where students said he helped demonstrate the compassion and human connection central to healthcare.

“He reminds me how to do that over and over again,” Thornett said.

University of �鶹��ý Maui College Nursing Instructor Mary Farmer has been named the 2026 recipient of the Masaki and Momoe Kunimoto Memorial Award.

The Masaki and Momoe Kunimoto Memorial Award, established by Tadashi and Elizabeth Kunimoto, honors the founders of Chikara Products, Inc., known for �鶹��ý foods such as Aloha Tofu, Maui Natto and Chikara Konnyaku. Presented in alternate years to a faculty member or student, the award recognizes significant contributions to career and technical education within the UH Community Colleges.

Farmer has demonstrated exceptional commitment to career and technical education through her leadership of the Certified Nurse Aid (CNA) to Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Bridge Program, expanding access to nursing education for working professionals across �鶹��ý. Once requiring career pauses, relocation or limited training options, the pathway from CNA to LPN has been reimagined—bringing training directly into communities statewide.

“Through innovation, partnership and an unwavering commitment to students, Mary Farmer has transformed how we prepare �鶹��ý‘s healthcare workforce,” said Lui Hokoana, UH Maui College chancellor and interim vice president for UH Community Colleges. “Her leadership has expanded access across our islands and created meaningful pathways for career advancement.”

Bringing training to students

Farmer partnered with healthcare providers, including Hale Makua Health Services and ʻOhana Pacific Health, to deliver training within healthcare settings across Maui, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi and �鶹��ý Island. She also led curriculum redesigns and adapted instruction to support working adults.

“Mary Farmer doesn’t just teach—she builds pathways that truly work for students,” said Laura Nagle, interim vice chancellor for academic affairs at UH Maui College. “Working closely with our industry partners, she saw the barriers facing CNAs and responded with a program that brings education directly into their workplaces and communities. What makes her work so impactful is how it creates real opportunities for people to advance without leaving the islands they call home.”

Her commitment to equity and access is evident in the program’s statewide reach. In December 2025, the Molokaʻi cohort celebrated its successful graduation, marking a major milestone in extending healthcare training to rural and neighbor island communities. Building on that momentum, Farmer is now planning a Lānaʻi cohort, further strengthening opportunities for residents in underserved areas.

By aligning education with workforce needs—where LPN shortages remain critical—Farmer has created a scalable, industry-driven model that strengthens �鶹��ý‘s healthcare workforce and communities statewide.

Chelsea Ligsay’s path to graduation spans from teen mother to nurse and mentor. On May 16, she will earn her master of science in nursing education and leadership from the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� .

“I was inspired to return to school after discovering my passion for precepting new graduate nurses and witnessing their growth into confident, motivated and competent professionals committed to providing excellent patient care,” she said.

A graduate from Farrington High School and teen mother at the time, she earned her BS in nursing from UH ����ԴDz� in 2011. She is currently working at The Queen’s Medical Center on the cardiac telemetry unit where she has been for 13 years.

As part of her practicum, Ligsay worked with the Kilolani Project, a diabetes management program based at Queen Emma Clinics that uses a multidisciplinary team—including nurses, pharmacists and a Native Hawaiian patient navigator—to improve engagement and outcomes through culturally grounded care.

“The mission of the Kilolani Project to engage vulnerable populations in improving their health and knowledge through cultural connection deeply resonated with my personal purpose and commitment to service,” she said.

At The Queen’s Medical Center, she worked alongside patient navigator Lauralee “Ulu” Ana to support diabetes education group sessions and outreach efforts. Ligsay focused on strengthening participation in group sessions by building relationships and trust with patients, while helping facilitate culturally grounded, evidence-based education.

She said the experience reinforced the importance of understanding health through cultural context, particularly in Indigenous communities where cultural identity is closely tied to wellbeing.

Inspiring the next generation

Looking ahead, Ligsay said she will continue serving as a dedicated nurse preceptor, strengthened by enhanced leadership skills and refined approaches to teaching and training.

“Through this journey, I have discovered new ways to contribute to the nursing profession by sharing the knowledge and insight I have gained to help guide, support, and inspire future generations of nurses,” she said.

In the near future, she also hopes to pursue a clinical nurse faculty position at the UH ����ԴDz�, where she can further develop her passion for teaching in an academic setting.

At , nursing graduate Franziska Bass transformed personal tragedy into a calling to care for others.

For months, Bass lived inside a hospital room, fighting for her young son’s life. She relocated to Oʻahu for six months, spending three of those months at Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children, where she witnessed both the fragility of life and the power of compassionate care. Despite every effort, her son, Cooper, passed away—an experience that would forever shape her path.

“This heartbreaking event shattered my world, but it also became a powerful turning point for me,” said Bass. “I wanted to give back and honor my child by working at the hospital and help others during their most vulnerable times.”

Now, as she graduates from �鶹��ý CC Pālamanui’s nursing program, Bass carries that purpose forward—transforming grief into service and connection.

Meet more amazing UH graduates

Her decision to pursue nursing was deeply rooted in what she experienced during her son’s care. “The nursing staff and everyone that we came in contact with were so incredible and touched us in many ways,” she said. “I knew exactly what my calling was.”

A path forward

Bass found not only an education, but a support system that helped her navigate unfamiliar territory. As a single mother returning to school, the transition was overwhelming at times. The journey was filled with challenges—anxiety, financial strain and the emotional weight of loss—but also profound personal growth.

“Thank God for the amazing staff at Pālamanui that walked me through it one step at a time, and sometimes quite literally held my hand along the way,” she said. “If something truly matters to you, you will find a way to make it work.”

Born and raised in East Germany, Bass grew up with a strong sense of community and resilience that continues to guide her today. After coming to the U.S. at age 20, she eventually found her home on �鶹��ý Island. Graduation represents more than an academic milestone—it is part of her fundamental transformation.

She is set to graduate on May 16 and plans to work at The Queen’s Health Systems – North �鶹��ý Community Hospital, bringing empathy and human connection to every patient she serves.

“Graduating from the Nursing Program at �鶹��ý CC Pālamanui is part of my healing process,” Bass said. “I feel a strong calling to help others…hoping to help people heal.”

Three faculty members from the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� were recognized for their research at the 2026 �鶹��ý State Center for Nursing symposium, highlighting contributions that advance health care innovation in �鶹��ý and beyond.

The honorees were Assistant Professor Samia Valeria Ozorio Dutra, who received the Emerging Nurse Scientist Award; Associate Professor and PhD Program Director Molly Altman, who received the Exemplary Nurse Scientist Award; and Associate Professor and Department of Nursing Chair Gary Glauberman, who received the inaugural �鶹��ý Impact Award.

Gut microbiome, mental health, AI

The Emerging Nurse Scientist Award recognizes early-career researchers with strong promise in advancing nursing science. Dutra’s work explores the intersection of gut microbiome science, mental health and artificial intelligence, including machine learning approaches to identify depression risk in medical records. Her research also examines how biological, behavioral and psychosocial factors interact to influence mental health and resilience, alongside community-engaged work related to the Maui wildfires.

Reproductive health care disparities

The Exemplary Nurse Scientist Award honors sustained research that improves practice, education and policy. Altman’s community-based research addresses health disparities in reproductive health care, with more than 16 major studies, more than $2 million in funding and 50 peer-reviewed publications. Her work has influenced clinical practice, national education standards and health policy while reducing bias and improving access to care.

Public health emergency preparedness

The inaugural �鶹��ý Impact Award recognizes research with direct benefit to local communities. Glauberman’s work focuses on environmental and population health, including public health emergency preparedness. His research highlights gaps between awareness and action and includes development of a digital, location-based emergency planning tool for families. With more than 26 publications and strong community partnerships, his work emphasizes science designed to serve �鶹��ý communities.

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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

The University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa ballroom dance team won its third consecutive national title at the (NCDC), in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, March 27–29.

Competing against 37 colleges, UH Mānoa once again took first place for “highest point average,” as well as a close second place for the overall team championship, asserting its place among the nation’s top ballroom dance college teams. Winning top honors in the highest point average requires most team members to perform exceptionally well in all events.

The dancers of the Ballroom Dance Club @UHM—a registered independent organization at UH Mānoa—are trained and coached by Ravi Narayan and Synthia Sumukti. Narayan and Sumukti also represented �鶹��ý in the senior age division placing 1st in several events.

“We are no longer the underdogs, so all the other colleges are looking at us as the team to beat,” said Narayan, who is also an adjunct faculty member in the UH Mānoa . “The bar is getting raised higher and higher each year, but we prevailed once again. We are incredibly proud of the dedication of our dancers who put in many hours to prepare for this competition. We are grateful for the incredible support we have received from the entire ballroom community in the state of �鶹��ý.”

The Ballroom Dance Club @UHM was formed in September 2022, and the team took first place for “highest team average” in 2024 and 2025.

“Nationals was an amazing and eye-opening experience for me,” said Caleb Zerbe, who competed in the nationals for the first time. “Getting to see so many people dance and enjoy themselves on the floor made me realize how fun dancing can be, even at the highest stages. It was a moment that helped me build a lot of confidence, and one that I will never forget.”

Christopher Ramirez, who competed on all three victorious UH Mānoa teams, added, “Given the opportunity to compete at my third nationals, there is always something new to learn. Winning for the third year in a row has reminded me just how incredible it is to be a part of this team.”

Tough competition

NCDC is a grueling competition with events starting at 7 a.m. every morning. It consisted of multiple events based on proficiency (bronze, silver, gold, etc.). Each student danced in up to 32 different events at the bronze and silver skill levels. They competed in all four styles of ballroom dance including International Standard (waltz, tango, viennese waltz, foxtrot and quickstep), American Smooth (waltz, tango, foxtrot and viennese waltz), American Rhythm (chacha, rumba, swing, bolero and mambo) and International Latin (samba, chacha, rumba, paso doble and jive).

Several students took individual first place awards in their respective divisions defeating up to 70 other competitors in some events. This trip was designed to give the team exposure to a collegiate competition, as �鶹��ý has no statewide collegiate ballroom competitions.

More about the Ballroom Dance Club

The Ballroom Dance Club offers beginner classes to all UH Mānoa students, faculty and staff in studio 2 in the athletics department from 6—7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. No dance experience is required. For more information, or visit their Instagram page @bdcuhm.

The team would like to thank the Department of Information and Computer Sciences, UH Mānoa Department of Athletics, Student Activity and Program Fee Board, Associated Students of the University of �鶹��ý, USA Dance Honolulu and the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation for facility and financial support.

UH Mānoa 2026 nationals collegiate and adult team roster:

• Ravi Narayan, faculty (computer science), coach and alumnus
• Synthia Sumukti, coach and alumna
• ʻAulani Wagner, library science and American studies
• Alexander Picken, Earth science
• Amanda Kanthack, psychology and Japanese
• Caleb Zerbe, computer science
• Christopher Ramirez, linguistics
• Christopher Wright, electrical engineering
• Courtney Hisamoto, computer science
• D’Elle Martin, architecture
• Elijah Saloma, computer science
• Gregory Snyder, mechanical engineering
• Hannah Madiam, kinesiology
• Iris Calauan, pre-nursing
• Jonathan Bona, civil engineering
• Julietta Lopez, architecture
• Kanaru Ebi, psychology
• Karl Merritt, mechanical engineering
• Luis Hernandez, electrical and computer engineering
• Lyndsey Moku, political science
• Maya Ito, psychology
• Michaella Villanueva, computer science
• Noah Asano, computer science
• Samantha Reed, computer science
• Shaelyn Loo, computer science
• Tessa Heidkamp, journalism and political science
• Andrew Lin, computer science alumnus
• Sydney Kim, computer science alumna
• Jason Aguda, computer engineering alumnus
• Matthew Rummel, political science and business alumnus
• Ariel Ramos, cinematic arts animation alumna
• Yong-Sung Masuda, computer science alumnus
• Wilson Tran, computer science alumnus
• Florence Liu, faculty, mathematics

Luis Hernandez and Maya Ito dancing the American Cha-cha in the Collegiate Team Match where UH Mānoa placed 3rd. (Video courtesy: Calvin Ota)

Elijah Saloma and Michaella Villanueva dancing the International Quickstep in the Collegiate Team Match where UH Mānoa placed 3rd. (Video courtesy: Calvin Ota)

Coaches Ravi Narayan and Synthia Sumukti dancing the Mambo in the Senior IV American Rhythm Championship final. (Video courtesy: Ravi Sundaram)

Students cheering for their coaches Ravi Narayan and Synthia Sumukti (Video courtesy: Ravi Sundaram)

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� is gaining national visibility for its work on clinician well-being. Assistant Professor Frankie B. Hale, has been selected as a Changemaker Accelerator in Cohort 2 of the , a yearlong program that brings together national leaders to develop and scale innovative strategies for improving clinician resilience and well-being.

The selection recognizes Hale’s research on reducing burnout and supporting well-being in nurses. Her work focuses on translating evidence-based strategies into practical tools for students and faculty, helping prepare the next generation of clinicians for sustainable careers in healthcare. Hale also contributes to the State of Well-Being Project through the �鶹��ý Governor’s Office of Wellness and Resilience.

Expanding impact through national collaboration

Through the NAM program, Hale will work with national leaders—including the American Nurses Association (ANA)—to expand evidence-based strategies developed with community partners. Using a simulation learning model, her project provides student nurses with practical tools to strengthen their well-being and resilience as they navigate the demands of clinical work.

“I’m excited to bring what we’re learning here in �鶹��ý to a national stage, and then bring back strategies and resources that can make a real difference for our students and faculty,” Hale said. “This work is about more than measuring burnout—it’s about creating sustainable ways to support the well-being of the people who care for our communities every day.”

By the end of the program, Hale hopes to build lasting peer-to-peer partnerships with national leaders and translate those lessons into actionable programs at UH, advancing the school’s mission to train the next generation of clinicians who thrive in their professional and personal lives.

During spring break, University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� nursing student Jolene Chun joined National Guard search and rescue efforts in high-risk flood zones in Waialua to help ensure the safety of residents and property during the state evacuation order in March. Chun, a state-activated �鶹��ý Air National Guard Staff Sergeant medic with the U.S. Air Force, is pursuing her advanced degree through the (GEPN) in the (SONDH).

“The most impactful moment during the search was witnessing the devastation of mass amounts of property and vehicles displaced due to the powerful impact of the flood,” Chun said.

Chun earned her bachelor of arts in with a concentration in disaster preparedness and management from UH West Oʻahu in 2021. Her decision to serve as a medic in the �鶹��ý Air National Guard was influenced in part by educational opportunities, including tuition assistance that supported her undergraduate degree.

Her training in the GEPN program built on her clinical experience as a medic, strengthening her ability to respond in high-pressure situations.

“The program helped me render aid with definitive treatments in mind, which made me more confident assisting in the field,” she said.

Even to make the smallest difference, I will answer the call.
—Jolene Chun

Balancing both roles, Chun said the skills complement each other and reinforce a shared focus on patient care, making her immediate decision to assist during spring break instinctive.

“I was fortunate to have the opportunity to assist in responding to people in the community. Even to make the smallest difference, I will answer the call,” she said.

A long-term commitment to service

Chun plans to graduate in 2028 and commission as a �鶹��ý Air National Guard nurse, eventually pursuing the to continue serving �鶹��ý communities. In addition to focusing on women’s wellness, she aims to help improve coordination across federal, state, city and private sectors to expand access to healthcare.

As the affected communities continue cleaning and rebuilding, Chun reflects on the ongoing efforts. “I am appreciative that the National Guard members are still out there working with the community to help the land and people pick up the pieces to hopefully normalize after the effects of the Kona Low system.”

SONDH Dean Clementina Ceria-Ulep added, “Jolene’s dedication as a nursing student and medic showcases the remarkable service and leadership our students bring to �鶹��ý communities.”

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� is part of a new $3.5 million multi-state project to improve cervical cancer screening and follow-up at primary care clinics in �鶹��ý, Florida and Massachusetts. The �鶹��ý portion, led by Holly Fontenot, associate dean for research and professor at the and faculty member of the , is supported by a major five–year, R01 award from the National Institutes of Health.

The project, Development of Systems and Education for Cervical Cancer Prevention (DOSE–CC), will adapt, validate and test interventions designed to boost cervical cancer prevention and follow-up care across diverse populations.

Fontenot brings experience from her prior work in women’s health and HPV-associated cancer prevention, and is one of four multiple principal investigators collaborating with Boston Medical Center, Tufts University and the Moffitt Cancer Center. The �鶹��ý research team also includes Komal Soin and Patty Tran from the .

“This award reflects the strength of our ongoing research partnerships and the importance of multidisciplinary teams working together to develop effective, sustainable and impactful multi-level interventions that help to transform the current paradigm in cancer screening and follow-up,” Fontenot said.

The project builds on previous studies, including Cervical Cancer: Provider Response and Options of Guidelines Related to Screening Strategies (CC PROGRESS), funded by the American Cancer Society, and DOSE–HPV, which successfully increased HPV vaccination rates.

By combining clinical research with community engagement, the project seeks to develop sustainable, effective interventions that can be scaled nationally — including across the U.S. Work on DOSE–CC is already underway and is expected to be completed by 2030.

For many nursing students, the cost of tuition and living expenses can create a heavy financial burden while balancing coursework and clinical training. The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� has partnered with Social Finance to offer zero-interest student loans through the , a program designed to help students cover educational costs without the burden of high-interest debt.

Eligible UH ����ԴDz� undergraduate nursing students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program who are within two years of graduation can to cover the cost of attendance after grants and scholarships. Applicants must be permanent �鶹��ý residents and qualify as low-income. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $15,000 per academic year.

The loan program continues to support students in the College of Engineering, where it was launched to help students with demonstrated financial need complete their degrees. The UH ����ԴDz� School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene is the latest UH program to join the initiative, expanding access to more students across the university.

“We’re excited to join this new program, building on its success with other UH students,” said Clementina Ceria-Ulep, dean of the UH ����ԴDz� School of Nursing & Dental Hygiene. “This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting nursing students as they complete their degrees and prepare for careers in the local healthcare workforce.”

The school is holding an informational session with Social Finance on Monday, February 9, 2026 from 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.

How the program works

The �鶹��ý Renewable Learning Fund provides eligible students with loans that carry zero interest and no origination fees, helping cover remaining costs of tuition, living expenses and other educational needs not met by grants and scholarships.

After graduation, students repay their loans through fixed monthly payments over up to five years, with options to defer monthly payments when income falls below a minimum threshold. Repayments are recycled into the fund to support future students, creating a sustainable resource.

By offering financial flexibility while in school, the program allows students to focus on their studies and clinical training, helping them complete their degrees with less stress and prepare for careers in �鶹��ý’s healthcare community.

UH ����ԴDz� Nursing prepares bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral nurses to serve diverse populations across �鶹��ý and the Asia-Pacific region. Its online master’s program is nationally ranked. Graduates consistently achieve high licensure pass rates, reflecting the program’s academic standards and workforce preparation.

For more information about the zero-interest loan, visit the . UH ����ԴDz� Nursing students who have questions should contact their Office of Student Services advisor.

The University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa’s was recognized in the 2025 U.S. News and World Report rankings of the nation’s best online programs, released on January 27. UH Mānoa placed No. 62 out of the top 209 . UH Mānoa was the only nursing school in �鶹��ý to be ranked for online education.

U.S. News and World Report assessed programs in student engagement (30%), faculty credentials and training (20%), peer assessment (20%), student services and technologies (20%) and student excellence (10%).

“This ranking underscores the strength of our online nursing program,” said Clementina D. Ceria-Ulep, dean of the UH Mānoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene. “It speaks to our focus on delivering rigorous, accessible education that equips nurses to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. It also reflects the dedication of our faculty and students to meeting the evolving needs of health care and higher education.”

More about the online program

The online is a distance-based online master’s degree for registered nurses who wish to practice in �鶹��ý, in the continental U.S. or international setting.

The program focuses on population-level health, wellness, social determinants of health, health promotion and disease prevention. Coursework is completed online, and fieldwork is conducted in the student’s own local community.

The 30-credit program is designed to be completed in one year as a full-time student or in two years as a part-time student. Students complete a six-credit capstone project that includes 270 hours of fieldwork experience. The capstone project is designed to provide students with experience in the indirect care level of service at the aggregate population, organizational or systems level. There is an additional nine-credit thesis option.

The deadline to apply to the online APHN program is May 1. . There is a on February 18.

For information about graduate programs, visit the .

A Native Hawaiian nurse leader at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� (SONDH) has earned national recognition for her work advancing health equity. Donna-Marie Palakiko was named a 2025 Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (AAN) and a Distinguished Fellow of the Academy of Diversity Leaders in Nursing (ADLN).

“I am honored to be inducted into the 2025 Class of New Fellows for the American Academy of Nursing,” said Palakiko, associate professor and SONDH director of cultural innovation and strategy. “This recognition is shared with those who volunteered to be a part of my program of research, supported my learning & growth, and most of all, my ʻOhana. I am excited to continue the work to improve health among Indigenous communities.”

Fellowship in AAN recognizes individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on health and healthcare through research, policy, practice – and education. Palakiko was inducted in October 2025 during the academy’s annual Health Policy Conference in Washington, U.S.

As a Distinguished Fellow of ADLN, she joins a national network of leaders advancing justice, equity, diversity – and inclusion in nursing.

According to ADLN, “The 2025 Fellows represent a powerful collective dedicated to shaping the future of nursing and healthcare by ensuring all voices are heard and valued.”

Research and community impact

Related UH News story: Nursing innovator fellowship for UH ����ԴDz� assistant professor

Palakiko joined UH ����ԴDz� in 2019 as the first Native Hawaiian nurse to be hired and receive tenure with promotion at SONDH. Her research addresses asthma inequities among Native Hawaiians and focuses on building a culturally responsive health workforce. For more than 25 years, Palakiko has advanced health equity for Native Hawaiians and other underserved communities. Her work focuses on culturally safe health programs, strengthening the nursing workforce, and addressing social and cultural factors that influence health.

Earlier this year, Palakiko joined the American Public Health Association (APHA) leadership team and serves on the boards of the National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurses Association (NCEMNA) and the Asian American Pacific Islander Nurses Association (AAPINA).

She earned her doctorate from the UH ����ԴDz�, her master’s of science from the University of California, San Francisco, and her bachelor’s of science from the University of San Francisco. She is a 2022 Fulbright Post-Doctoral Fellow, a 2023 Fellow of the LEADS program, and a recipient of the UC Davis Betty Irene Moore Fellowship for Nurse Leaders & Innovators.

Column by Chancellor Lui Hokoana was published by on October 23, 2025.

Beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, our college will offer a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. This is a big, BIG deal. It means Maui County will have the best prepared new RNs we can offer. And it also means we will have the potential to graduate enough nurses to serve our county’s needs through the year 2036.

It took a long time to get here. And while it did “take a village,” our Allied Health Department Chair and Professor of Nursing Dr. Anne Scharnhorst, who has been laser-focused on this goal for years, calls herself “one of the noisier villagers.” She and her nursing department faculty and staff did most of the heavy lifting. And we are very grateful.

Scharnhorst joined our nursing faculty in 2007, armed with two nursing degrees and more than 25 years of professional experience in acute and critical care and clinical informatics. “Between 2007 and 2010, �鶹��ý Statewide Nursing Consortium (HSNC) built a unified curriculum among UH ����ԴDz�, Kapi’olani Community College, Kauaʻi Community College, and UH Maui College so that the Associate Degree Nursing graduates could seamlessly go to ����ԴDz� to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees,” explains Scharnhorst. “This was an innovation that received nationwide attention as everyone was working to build a bigger Bachelors’-prepared workforce.” The Institute of Medicine had set a goal of having 80% of practicing nurses holding a BSN or higher by 2020.

And that was all Scharnhorst needed to hear. While she continued to teach and mentor and administer at our college, in 2020 she achieved her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from UH ����ԴDz�. Like everything she does, this was more for the greater good than for her own advancement. “The reason I pursued this degree is because I have had in my heart and in my sights since 2015 to see our Nursing Program here on Maui become a full BSN Program,” says Scharnhorst. “I’m happy to have been able to learn things to help the college and the community. This is what lifelong learning is all about—making you more effective at doing what you love to do.”

Also in 2020, an Authorization to Plan (ATP) for the BSN program was submitted to UH‘s Chief Council of Academic Officers. Then came COVID-19. And as a result of the pandemic, the process was stalled. But the delay, ultimately, gave Scharnhorst the time to solidify the BSN program curriculum with our Counseling Department. “We worked closely with the Nursing faculty to design a curriculum that supports student success from start to finish. Through careful collaboration and shared expertise, we were able to align academic pathways, solidify prerequisites, and ensure a smooth transition from pre-nursing to the BSN program. I believe our partnership helped create a curriculum that is not only academically strong, but also student- centered and culturally relevant,” says Professor of Counseling Wayne Aguiran. That task was completed in 2024. And then it was full speed ahead. Finally.

A funding bill moved through the �鶹��ý State Senate. In the end, the legislature approved $560,000 in funding. UH President Wendy Hensel voiced support on her first visit to our campus in March of this year. “When I introduced myself to her,” recalls Scharnhorst, “she said, ‘Nursing is easy to say yes to.’” More submissions were required—to the �鶹��ý State Board of Nursing, to the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, and to the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission. And more approvals were needed—from the UH Chief Council of Academic Officers and the Board of Regents Student Success Committee. That final approval came on Oct. 2.

“I believe this advancement elevates the education, perspective, and professional lens through which our nurses care for our patients and our community. By investing in our nurses, we strengthen the future of health care on Maui,” says one of our staunchest supporters, Marian Horikawa-Barth. And she should know. She’s the Chief Nurse Executive for Maui Health. And a graduate of our Nursing Program.

For complete information about UH Maui College, please visit

Dr. Lui K. Hokoana is Chancellor of the University of �鶹��ý Maui College. Kaʻana Manaʻo, which means “sharing thoughts,” is scheduled to appear on the fourth Thursday of each month. It is prepared with assistance from UH Maui College staff and is intended to provide the community of Maui County with information about opportunities available through the college at its Kahului campus and its education centers.

The University of �鶹��ý’s three 4-year universities earned national recognition in the U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings released on September 23, including four top 10 regional rankings for UH West Oʻahu.

, and were ranked among the top 4-year institutions by U.S. News and World Report out of based on up to 17 measures (depending on ranking category) of academic quality, including graduation and retention rates, peer assessments, financial resources and student excellence.

“These rankings reflect the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff and students across all three UH 4-year campuses,” UH President Wendy Hensel said. “They show that we are continuing to provide �鶹��ý students with a high-quality, affordable education while preparing them to lead in their communities and beyond.”

The flagship campus of the UH System ranked No. 92 as a top U.S. public university; No. 122 for best colleges for veterans; No. 169 overall in the country; and No. 189 in social mobility, which measures how well schools graduated students who were federal Pell Grant recipients.

The came in at No. 109 among the best undergraduate business programs out of 533 ranked undergraduate business programs.

The is the No. 118 best undergraduate nursing program among 686 ranked undergraduate nursing programs.

The in the ranked No. 139 for best undergraduate economics programs in the nation.

The placed No. 150 among the best undergraduate engineering programs that offer doctoral degrees in the country.

The in the ranked as the No. 177 best undergraduate computer science program out of 601 ranked programs.

The in the ranked No. 196 out of the top 682 best undergraduate psychology programs in the nation.

UH Hilo ranked No. 178 as a top U.S. public university, No. 204 for social mobility and No. 329 overall among the top 434 national universities—a classification based on offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs, emphasizing research, as explained in the rankings categories below.

UH �ᾱ����’s is the No. 186 best undergraduate nursing program in the country, the placed No. 254 among the 533 best undergraduate business programs, and the ranked No. 297 out of the best 682 undergraduate psychology programs.

UH West Oʻahu ranked No. 3 for best public colleges in the West, No. 3 for best colleges for veterans among regional colleges in the West, No. 8 overall among regional colleges in the West (two spots higher than last year and five spots higher than the year prior) and No. 8 for social mobility for regional colleges in the West (five spots higher than last year and 13 spots higher than the year prior).

Ranking categories

UH Mānoa and UH Hilo were ranked in the national universities category, which featured institutions that offer a full range of undergraduate majors, master’s and doctoral programs, and emphasize faculty research or award professional practice doctorates.

UH West Oʻahu is in the regional colleges in the West category, which includes schools that focus on undergraduate education and grant fewer than 50% of their degrees in liberal arts disciplines.

Entry-level nursing students got a head start on their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) path through a no-cost, three-day summer bridge workshop piloted by the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� and UH West Oʻahu. The inaugural workshop took place in August, before the start of the fall 2025 semester.

Designed for students in the and the , the program combined hands-on clinical refreshers, academic skill-building and cultural grounding to help students transition smoothly.

“This workshop gives our students the tools and confidence they need before stepping into the demands of nursing school,” said William Siegman, UH ����ԴDz� nursing undergraduate program director. “It’s about resilience, connection and preparation, inside and outside the classroom.”

Participants practiced clinical skills such as taking vital signs and performing medication calculations while also engaging in workshops on prioritization, time management and academic success strategies. To address mental and emotional well-being, the sessions included self-care activities, peer networking, and discussions on balancing stress and responsibility.

The program also emphasized cultural values of aloha, kuleana (responsibility) and mālama ʻāina (to care for the land). Through reflection, relationship building and guided planning, students gained a deeper understanding of the cultural context of nursing in �鶹��ý.

Siegman credited the collaboration of UH West Oʻahu, UH ����ԴDz� Nursing and the ʻIKE AO PONO Program, a student support program for underrepresented nursing students, for bringing the pilot program to life.

The Gilbert and Aileen Chuck Charitable Trust has awarded an additional $1 million to the University of �鶹��ý Maui College to expand scholarships for nursing students—helping more Maui residents pursue careers in healthcare amid a critical nursing shortage.

Trustee Ron Purdy said, “The Gilbert and Aileen Chuck Charitable Trust believes that when you invest in a nurse, you’re investing in an individual, their family and the Maui community for years to come.”

The new pledge builds on the trust’s initial $2 million gift that established the Kam Scholars Program, which honors Aileen Chuck’s late father, Edwin T. Kam (1904–1993), a physician who practiced in Windward Oʻahu.

Helping local families

For local families like the Gabuats, the trust’s impact is already being felt. Phoebe Gabuat earned an associate degree in nursing from UH Maui College in 1991 and a bachelor of science in nursing from UH Hilo in 2012. She remembers the financial strain she faced while earning her nursing degrees.

“I juggled multiple part-time jobs and stretched every dollar, always wondering if I could afford to continue,” she said.

Now, her son, Aaron Gabuat, is a Kam Scholar.

“When he got the scholarship, I could see he was much calmer and lighter,” she said. “He really worked hard to earn it, and we’re proud of him.”

Opening doors to opportunity

“In addition to funding education, this new grant is opening doors to opportunity, stability and service,” said Purdy. “My heart always sunk whenever I’d hear someone say, ‘I want to go to nursing school, but I can’t afford it.’ We hope this gift helps change that story for more Maui students.”

Together, the funds provide full academic scholarships for UH Maui College’s Practical Nurse and associate in science registered nurse programs, and will eventually support students in the anticipated bachelor of science in nursing program. Until then, the scholarship also assists UH Maui College graduates in earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing at other campuses by covering tuition, books, fees and essential expenses.

‘We are deeply grateful to the Gilbert and Aileen Chuck Charitable Trust and their trustees for their unwavering commitment to our students and our program,’ said UH Maui College Chancellor Lui Hokoana. ‘Their generosity doesn’t just provide financial support—it opens doors, changes lives and strengthens the future of healthcare on Maui.’

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� (SONDH) is relaunching its program. Set to welcome its first new cohort in fall 2026, the PhD program aims to prepare nurses to become researchers, educators and leaders capable of generating knowledge that improves health outcomes and strengthens the profession.

“This program is designed to grow the number of nurse scientists equipped to tackle the complex health challenges that exist in �鶹��ý and beyond” said Clementina Ceria-Ulep, dean of SONDH.

PhD-prepared nurses conduct research that leads to real-world solutions—from improving patient care to shaping health policy. With the global nurse shortage, they are needed now more than ever to help educate the next generation and expand the evidence base that supports effective and equitable care.

“When people hear the word ‘nurse,’ most picture someone in scrubs, offering hands-on care at the bedside. While that image is accurate, it’s only one role in a much larger profession,” said Lorrie Wong, associate dean for academic affairs. “Nurses are also clinicians (nurse practitioners), educators, researchers and leaders. PhD-prepared nurse scientists are actively shaping health care delivery.”

“There’s a critical need for more nurse scientists, especially in �鶹��ý and across the Pacific,” said Holly Fontenot, associate dean for research. “This program is designed to build that workforce; plus, support the development of knowledge needed to advance health promotion, shape nursing practice, and improve health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. We hope to foster innovative research that is reflective of our local needs and strengths.”

Rooted in �鶹��ý, aimed at global change

The relaunched program is grounded in place. Students will be encouraged to pursue research questions that are important to the communities they serve, whether improving access to care in rural areas, addressing health disparities, or developing culturally responsive care models. Students will learn how to conduct culturally relevant, community-based research, ensuring that findings are meaningful and will have a positive impact within their communities.

They’ll learn how to be a leader in ways that are rooted in aloha and responsive to the people they serve.
—Molly Altman

“Students won’t just be learning how to do research,” said Molly Altman, associate professor and PhD program director. “They’ll be learning how to be a leader, in ways that are rooted in aloha and responsive to the people they serve.”

Using the unique nursing perspective, faculty mentors will guide students in the development of innovative research and foster the growth of leadership skills so that graduates are able to become agents of change in academic, clinical and policy settings.

By relaunching its PhD in Nursing program, SONDH is committed to investing in the future of nursing and in the health of our islands.

Apply now for fall 2026

SONDH is currently accepting applications for its fall 2026 PhD cohort. Applications will become available on September 1, 2025. To attend informational sessions, visit the for upcoming dates. For more details or to apply, visit the or email phdnurs@hawaii.edu.