A new study co-authored by a University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� expert is shedding light on growing public concern about deepfakes—artificial intelligence (AI)-generated videos, images or audio that realistically depict individuals saying or doing things they never actually said or did. This comes as the State of �鶹��ý moved to strengthen protections against the harmful use of AI.

Gov. Josh Green signed legislation in July strengthening protections against harmful AI-generated content. Under HB 2137, now Act 247, individuals harmed by unauthorized AI-generated realistic digital imitations can pursue civil remedies, including monetary damages of up to $25,000 per piece of content.

Growing public concern

The international study published by Professor Jerry Agrusa highlights growing public concern about deepfakes. Among 924 respondents, 84.8% said deepfakes can mislead people, while 82.7% said the technology can put personal data at risk through the unauthorized use of images or voices. Participants also expressed concern that fabricated content could damage professional reputations, employment opportunities and businesses.

“Deepfake technology has enormous potential, but our research shows that people are deeply concerned about what happens when it is used to deceive or harm others,” Agrusa said. “Clear legal safeguards and meaningful consequences for malicious misuse are essential if we want the public to trust this technology while still allowing its responsible and beneficial uses.“

The study found that public acceptance of deepfake technology may depend not simply on eliminating risk, but on whether people trust the safeguards designed to manage those risks. Researchers point to legal protections, informed consent, transparency and accountability as important components of responsible AI governance.

The study was authored by Agrusa, Cathrine Linnes (Østfold University of Applied Sciences), Giulio Ronzoni (Valencia College), Joseph Lema (UNLV) and Babu George (Alcorn State University).

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its (VEMBA), marking a quarter century of preparing business leaders and strengthening economic and educational ties between �鶹��ý and Vietnam.

To mark the milestone, hundreds of alumni representing all 33 VEMBA cohorts joined faculty, university leaders and distinguished guests at anniversary celebrations in Vietnam. Held in both Hanoi, where the program welcomed its first cohort, and Ho Chi Minh City, where it later expanded to meet growing demand, the events honored a quarter century of academic excellence, international partnership and leadership development.

Since its founding in 2001, VEMBA has graduated more than 1,000 business leaders who now serve in executive roles across Vietnam and beyond.

“The VEMBA program is the only program of its kind and has established itself as a leader in executive education in Vietnam,” said Shidler College of Business Dean Vance Roley. “As we celebrate this milestone, we also look toward the future by expanding our impact throughout Southeast Asia while continuing to strengthen the global network that has become one of VEMBA‘s greatest strengths.”

Bold vision to a nationwide network

VEMBA traces its roots to a 1997 United States Agency for International Development-funded initiative that brought Shidler faculty to Vietnam to help train business educators as the country transitioned to a market economy. That effort inspired the creation of Vietnam’s first Executive MBA program offered by an American university. The inaugural cohort welcomed 29 executives in Hanoi in 2001, followed by the program’s expansion to Ho Chi Minh City in 2007. In 2024, VEMBA evolved into one nationwide cohort, further strengthening connections among executives across the country.

Today, more than 1,000 graduates from 33 cohorts representing 21 countries comprise one of Vietnam’s most influential executive leadership networks. Alumni serve as CEOs, founders and senior executives across major industries.

Tung Bui, professor of information technology management, Matson Navigation Company Chair of Global Business and longtime faculty director of VEMBA, noted that the program has grown alongside Vietnam’s own economic transformation.

“Twenty-five years ago, the primary concern of VEMBA students was how to optimize operations, improve accounting systems and refine internal human resource management,” Bui said. “Today, our executives are thinking much bigger and looking outward. The most vibrant classroom discussions now revolve around artificial intelligence, global branding, exports and navigating international supply chains.”

For the entire story and information on how to support the Shidler College of Business, .

Recap video of the event in Ho Chi Minh City

Student innovators at the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) showcased their business evolution during a PACE Entrepreneurs event in July. Program organizers emphasized that the core objective was helping participants transition their projects forward.

“If the students came in here with an idea, the goal was to launch a minimum viable product (the most basic version of a new product),” said PACE Entrepreneur-in-Residence Jeff Hui. “If you had a product, the goal was to get customers. Everyone was supposed to get to the next phase, and everyone accomplished that.”

PACE is a unit of the Shidler College of Business at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� that coordinates and offers educational opportunities for entrepreneurship, innovation and commercialization to students at all 10 campuses throughout the UH system.

Recent UH ����ԴDz� marketing graduate Keʻalohilani Bloom, founder of Brightness of Heaven Co., said, “With this program, I was able to go from just an LLC (limited liability corporation) with no products or designs to the end where I could launch my products.”

Featured student ventures

• 
  Bloom’s venture bridges the gap between mature, premium, versatile style and Christian apparel. Reflecting on her time in the program, Bloom noted her progression from having a non-functional website to debuting 11 products.
• 
  Sarah Benimana, a PhD student in tropical plant and soil science who is also pursuing a master’s degree in urban and regional planning, introduced this agricultural recycling concept. She was struck by how much imported food ends up in local landfills, while local livestock and aquaculture industries struggle with mainland feed costs. Her venture has already secured small-scale production equipment and a manufacturing space at the Wāhiawa Value-Added Product Development Center.
• 
  Business students Macy Ferguson and Sophia Franco developed Kumulink to streamline the fragmented systems used to monitor Individualized Education Plans for special education students within the �鶹��ý Department of Education. The team highlighted that special education teachers currently navigate four to five systems to document data, communicate with families and track progress. Kumulink has established an active data-sharing agreement draft with the Maui complex area and aims to initiate a school pilot program this academic year.
• 
  Ernest Bethe IV, a graduate student finishing his coursework in urban and regional planning, designed Kumu Planning Systems to help government agencies efficiently track and report on municipal plans. The software leverages AI to extract goals and metrics out of massive planning documents. Bethe reported that the venture has pivoted successfully to a service-based platform model, capturing multiple beta testing agreements and closing a $4,500 conversion with the Commission on Water Resource Management.



• 
  Dounya Bilal introduced her bespoke floral studio, Orchid Mantis, which focuses on artistic custom installations, and community workshops. Moving away from a background in architecture, Bilal generated $4,000 in seasonal sales and secured an upcoming installation layout for a local fashion show.
• 
  Studi Bunni is a live task-management and productivity web application featuring interactive dress-up elements, micro-breaks and journaling features tailored to alleviate academic stress. The developer, Tawanza Farmer, shared that before entering the cohort, the project had stalled at the wireframe (early layout) stage. Gaining structural motivation from PACE peers, Farmer successfully finalized studibunni.com.
• 
  Gray Stetcher presented Tesray Technologies, an AI workflow automation company executing specialized digital receptionist and onboarding tools for professional practices. Stetcher explained that while Tesray’s software logic applies to multiple spaces, market research led to targeting legal practices, since law firms demonstrated immediate operational interest and a strong willingness to pay for administrative time-saving solutions.

Organizers praised the summer cohort’s high productivity and outcomes. A larger collective showcase featuring these teams, alongside alumni and new groups, is tentatively scheduled for December.

Jeff Hui serves as the entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) in the Shidler College of Business. Drawing on his extensive background running growth teams at major tech companies, Hui now mentors UH students and guides them in harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to bring their ideas to life. In addition to running accelerators (programs that fast-track the growth of early stage businesses) and office hours, Hui has been doing public presentations to demystify AI. In a recent interview, Hui expanded on his core philosophies for success in an AI-driven world.

Everyone is an entrepreneur

“Moving forward is the only option. Keep trying new things and stay proactive. It’s not as simple as it was five years ago, when the path was to study computer science, join a software company, and earn a salary. Today, you must be entrepreneurial. To me, an entrepreneur is simply someone who makes things happen. That is the true origin of the (French) word, entreprendre. It isn’t about raising venture capital or launching a major business; it’s about being a doer. You could be working on side projects to demonstrate your ability to build. Some of my students securing AI jobs are simply those who tinker on their own. With AI technologies, you must forge your own path and create your own opportunities.”

We’ve been here before

“People are anxious about the future. While I do expect some jobs to be displaced, we have navigated major technological revolutions before, and the economy has always rebounded. The Internet and Industrial Revolutions were challenging for employment, yet they created roles we previously could never have imagined—such as prompt engineering (giving specific instructions to AI to get the desired output). Let’s examine historical precedents before concluding that this is the end of the workforce. I don’t believe AI robots will replace all jobs; rather, they will displace certain roles, and we will adapt to find new ways of earning a living.”

What’s happening in the market

“I reached out to 15 to 20 friends working at various private companies, startups and late-stage firms, and asked them, ‘What are you doing?’ I discovered some remarkable things. First, no one is certain of the path forward; everyone is experimenting. This reinforces my point that we are all entrepreneurs now. These individuals are on the business side—not natural engineers—yet they are all building. They may not know if these projects will be worthwhile, and they might even discard them, but they have the freedom to try and build. This is a significant shift. Previously, launching a project required dedicated engineering resources, potentially costing $100,000 in internal capital, which necessitated rigorous evaluation. Now, someone in marketing can simply build a product for themselves.”

Just do it yourself

“I practice what I preach by constantly tinkering. In my presentation, I demonstrated how quickly one can build a website, as I frequently encourage students to use AI for this purpose. There is a growing sentiment in the tech industry that traditional presentations are becoming obsolete. If you need to provide an update or show a mockup, you can simply create a website immediately; HTML is becoming the new PowerPoint. I find this to be accurate—I created a website for the Lychee Man in just a few minutes.”

Back to fundamentals

“At the university, I teach the lean startup methodology: at its core, it’s about listening to your customer, understanding their needs, and iterating rapidly. If you have an idea, talk to your customers and build something. That is the extent of it—no extensive planning or research needed, as talking to customers is the research. We don’t need to conduct giant market studies or assess viability upfront. Talk to customers; if they have a problem, solve it. The beauty is that anyone can now solve these problems using AI. It all boils down to whether you understand what your user wants. That skill is more important than ever because, with technical barriers removed, everyone has the ability to build.”

Future PACE initiatives

“At PACE, we are expanding our efforts significantly. Our most significant project is our AI innovation initiative at RISE, called AIR. We are hiring a new team focused on connecting students with local businesses and organizations to help them solve real-life problems. We will be hosting workshops on ‘vibe coding’—a software development approach using natural language prompts to have AI generate and iterate code—and on using agents, which are autonomous software systems that make decisions and take actions to achieve specific goals. Our goal is to connect students with university departments or local businesses and say, ‘Tell us your problem, and let’s see if we can solve it for you with AI.’ Ultimately, we want to teach students AI skills and connect them with organizations to address real-world challenges.”

• Related UH News:
  1st Entrepreneur-in-Residence to elevate student startup opportunities, April 4, 2024
  Strengthening workforce readiness through ‘The Human Connection’, November 13, 2025
  POG to pop-ups: UH students pitch fresh ideas to Meadow Gold, April 13, 2026

A new $500,000 endowed professorship at the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa’s will strengthen the university’s role as a global leader in Asia-Pacific finance research. The transformational gift comes from distinguished finance scholars and Shidler faculty members S. Ghon Rhee and Rosita P. Chang.

The Dr. S. Ghon Rhee and Dr. Rosita P. Chang Distinguished Professorship of Finance will support faculty excellence in research, strengthen the college’s leadership in Asia-Pacific finance scholarship and help recruit and retain world-class finance faculty.

Rhee, the K.J. Luke Distinguished Professor of International Banking and Finance, and Chang, professor emerita of finance and co-director of the Asia-Pacific Financial Markets Research Center, have devoted their careers to advancing the field of finance through research, teaching and academic leadership. During their tenure at Shidler College, they co-founded the Pacific-Basin Finance Journal in 1993, establishing one of the world’s premier scholarly journals focused on Asia-Pacific finance.

International scholarship, leadership

Beyond their contributions to Shidler College, both have earned international recognition for their scholarship and leadership. Rhee served as the founding chair of the Asian Shadow Financial Regulatory Committee, while Chang’s research and professional accomplishments have helped shape understanding of global financial markets and strengthen the college’s research enterprise.

“We sincerely hope that this endowed professorship plays a key role in promoting academic research on Asia-Pacific financial markets,” Rhee said. “Our goal is for academic researchers globally to look to UH as a leader and bridge in this important field.”

Forefront of finance

Their gift reflects a shared vision of ensuring that Shidler College remains at the forefront of finance research by attracting exceptional scholars and fostering innovative research focused on the dynamic economies and financial markets of the Asia-Pacific.

“Professors Ghon and Rosita have made an extraordinary impact on Shidler College through their many years of teaching, scholarly contributions and longstanding commitment to academic excellence,” Dean Vance Roley said. “This gift is a reflection of their remarkable legacy and vision; it will help attract and retain outstanding faculty, foster innovative ideas and strengthen the college’s position as a global leader in Asia-Pacific finance.”

For more information on how to support the Shidler College of Business, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development, at Jennifer.Lieu@uhfoundation.org or (808) 956-3597.

University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa (ICS) students showcased innovative solutions to real-world challenges during their Spring 2026 Capstone Project Day in May 2026.

The event featured poster presentations and demonstrations from undergraduate and graduate students who spent the semester collaborating with government agencies, private industry, nonprofit organizations and UH departments on projects designed to address practical needs across �鶹��ý and beyond.

Projects ranged from integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools for legislative operations and developing cybersecurity training platforms for critical infrastructure systems to creating immersive educational experiences, analyzing environmental and fisheries data, tracking coffee provenance through blockchain technology and applying AI to agricultural research.

Capstone teams partnered with organizations including the �鶹��ý State House of Representatives, Department of Defense, MITRE, Business Solution Technologies, Pacific Economics, Kahuku Apps, Blockchain in Paradise and the Waikīkī Aquarium. Additional collaborations involved UH Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience, Shidler College of Business, College of Engineering and College of Natural Sciences.

“Technology evolves quickly, but curiosity, creativity and collaboration remain essential skills,” said ICS Department Chair Guylaine Poisson. “These projects give students an opportunity to explore emerging technologies while developing the judgment and leadership abilities that will help them make meaningful contributions throughout their careers.”

Classroom knowledge, professional workplaces

The gives students opportunities to work directly with clients, define project requirements, develop software solutions and present their results to stakeholders. The experience mirrors professional workplace environments while allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to meaningful community, industry and government challenges.

Project Day also featured presentations from the Naval Information Warfare Center internship program at Kapiʻolani Community College and video games developed by students in the department’s Video Game Design courses.

The capstone program continues to serve as a bridge between the university and industry partners, providing organizations with innovative solutions while helping students build technical, communication and project management skills through hands-on experience.

The Department of Information and Computer Sciences is housed in UH Mānoa .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa graduating senior Chia Yun “Mercy” Cheng first arrived in �鶹��ý from Taiwan, she carried uncertainty alongside her ambition. Now graduating with a degree in marketing from the , Cheng said her experience at UH Mānoa transformed not only her education, but also her confidence.

“UH Mānoa made me feel like it was home,” Cheng said. “It really shaped me into a more extroverted person.”

Today, Cheng said she can confidently introduce herself to new people and step into leadership roles—something she never imagined before coming to �鶹��ý.

“I remember in the beginning, I was very timid to do small talk, even shake people’s hand, talk to people and look at their eyes,” she said. “But now, when I meet someone new, I can confidently go up to them, shake their hands and introduce myself.”

Taiwan to Mānoa

Born and raised in Pingtung, a small city in southeastern Taiwan, Cheng moved away from home at age 15 to attend a five-year junior college program in nearby Kaohsiung. The program combined high school and community college studies. Before attending UH Mānoa, Cheng said school often felt isolating.

“Because I never really liked school before I came to UH Mānoa—it could have been the education system in Taiwan, but it could also have been me—I felt like I could never fit in,” she said.

Finding her place in �鶹��ý

Her connection to �鶹��ý began during an internship at an Oʻahu auto dealership when she was 19. It was her first time traveling alone and visiting the U.S.

“�鶹��ý really healed me in a lot of different ways,” Cheng said. “It’s the people here. It’s the culture, the weather and everything. And I really found peace here.”

Meet more amazing UH graduates

After returning to Taiwan, Cheng made the decision to continue her education at UH Mānoa. At first, she approached college with a narrow focus on academics.

“When I first came here, my freshman year, all I knew was to study because I was raised to get a good grade, be on top of the class,” she said. “So I didn’t know how to really do the work-life balance thing.”

Stepping outside her comfort zone

That began to change when she became a New Rainbow Warrior peer leader, helping incoming students transition to college life.

“I remember at that time I was like, ‘Oh, I feel like I’m so introverted, I don’t even know how to talk to people,’” she said. “‘Can I actually lead freshmen and then help them get used to life on campus?’”

But she took the opportunity—and said it reshaped her experience at UH Mānoa.

“Being a peer leader really gave me a sense of community,” Cheng said. “The other peer leaders were really nice. I still stay in touch with them till this day.”

Cheng also became involved with the (PACE), serving as a for the Entrepreneurship Live program and later becoming its student director. What began as a search for scholarship opportunities turned into a broader experience in leadership and community.

“I applied thinking that, ‘OK, I want this scholarship,’” she said. “And then I realized that the program is not just about scholarship, it’s also about the community and the people there.”

A new sense of confidence

Now preparing to graduate, Cheng plans to remain in �鶹��ý while pursuing a career in marketing. She is currently interviewing for positions and continuing her work as a marketing assistant with Sodexo.

Looking back, Cheng said UH Mānoa became more than a place of study—it became a place where she learned confidence and belonging.

“I wouldn’t be able to achieve everything I have today without UH Mānoa,” she said.

The University of �鶹��ý Venture Competition returned for its 26th year this spring with the support of title sponsors Hawaiian Electric Industries (HEI) and Hawaiian Electric, bringing together student entrepreneurs from across the University of �鶹��ý System to showcase innovative ventures addressing real-world challenges through technology, sustainability, health and culture./p>

Hosted by the PACE in the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa’s Shidler College of Business, the 2026 competition featured more than 40 students from more than 20 academic disciplines representing seven UH System campuses.

“The UH Venture Competition continues to highlight the incredible talent and innovation emerging from our students across the UH System,” PACE Executive Director Sandra Fujiyama said. “Each year, we’re inspired by the creativity, passion and problem-solving mindset students bring to the competition, and we are deeply grateful to Hawaiian Electric and Hawaiian Electric Industries for their continued support in making this program possible and empowering student entrepreneurship across �鶹��ý.”

At the finals held on May 9 at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center, Makai Aquatics earned first place and a $10,000 cash prize sponsored by HEI and Hawaiian Electric. The venture produces captive-bred Hawaiian reef fish through a distributed network of home aquariums, helping fill the supply vacuum created by �鶹��ý’s wild reef fish collection ban.

The Makai Aquatics team includes Kent Glover, a PhD student in marine biology, Jonah Sheridan and Sarah Benimana, a PhD student in tropical plant and soil science.

Second place and a $5,000 cash prize went to Paniolo, a natural skincare brand. Founded by entrepreneurship major Jaidon Mathews and communications major Cameron Holt, the venture blends wellness and lifestyle branding with locally inspired values.

Third place and a $2,500 cash prize, sponsored by HiBEAM in honor of pioneer Billy Richardson, went to Hexcelerate, an AI-powered interview training platform designed to help workforce development programs improve job seeker confidence and interview readiness. Hexcelerate is founded by local students Lionel Derrick Roxas and Gabriel Dang, both computer science students.

In addition to the cash prizes, finalists received in-kind services such as marketing consultation from Pineapple Tweed, go-to-market strategy support from Blue Logic Labs, incorporation and financing legal services from Vantage Counsel LLC and a membership to access Hub Coworking spaces. Finalists also received mentorship, coaching and valuable feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals throughout the competition.

This year’s finals judges included Meli James, co-founder of Mana Up; Mateo Garcia, director of investor relations at HEI; Michael Bennett, founder of Honolulu Tech Week; and Ben Godsey, president and CEO of ProService �鶹��ý.

Student Entrepreneur of the Year

At the event, PACE recognized Timothy Lum as the 2026 Student Entrepreneur of the Year, an award honoring a student whose leadership, service and engagement have made a lasting impact on the entrepreneurial community at UH.

Throughout his time with PACE, Lum participated in nearly every major program, including PACE Leaders, Kalo Grants and the UH Venture Competition. Beyond participation, he played a key role in strengthening maker-space collaborations and helping launch new AI-focused initiatives.

A common emergency room issue—objects stuck in children’s ears—is driving innovation through the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s (MIND) �鶹��ý competition.

(JABSOM) pediatric emergency physician Travis Hong said the problem is more frequent than many expect.

“You’d be surprised how often kids come in with things stuck in their ears—beads, food, small toy parts,” Hong said. “I see these cases at least every couple of weeks, if not more.”

Removing those objects safely can be challenging and sometimes requires improvisation.

“A lot of ER care involves figuring out what works in the moment,” Hong said. “In some cases, we use a small amount of medical-grade adhesive on a cotton swab to try to extract the object—but it requires precision, and the child has to stay very still.”

Student-driven solution

That challenge inspired this year’s winning team in the MIND �鶹��ý competition.

“We wanted to create something safer, more controlled and designed specifically for this problem,” said Aileen Ferrer, a JABSOM student and leader of the StickieEars team.

The team developed a hybrid suction-adhesive device to improve safety and control during removal.

“It’s a common issue, but there isn’t a standardized tool,” Ferrer said. “We saw an opportunity to improve that.”

Developing the prototype required collaboration across disciplines—central to MIND’s mission. The annual competition brings together students from across campus, including JABSOM, the , the and the , to tackle real-world healthcare challenges.

Working with students and mentors from different backgrounds changed how we approached the problem.
—Aileen Ferrer

“Working with students and mentors from different backgrounds changed how we approached the problem,” Ferrer said. “That collaboration was one of the most valuable parts of the experience.”

“Students are addressing real clinical needs, and the level of innovation in these projects is exciting to see,” said faculty advisor Peter Di Rocco, clinical assistant professor at JABSOM.

Ferrer hopes StickieEars will eventually reach clinical use.

“I think this could have a real impact in everyday practice and make a difference for patients,” she said.

.

Before launching her local clothing and accessory brand, , Hilo native Tania Takashiba made the decision to continue her education at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�. She spent several years studying on the U.S. continent before attending the Shidler College of Business, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2002.

A member of the business fraternity Pi Sigma Epsilon, Takshiba said her time at Shidler played a pivotal role in shaping her professional network and lasting friendships.

“I think graduating from ”UH ����ԴDz� was the perfect transition into adulthood,” said Takashiba. “[I] did internships, I was able to get a job pretty easily, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the people I met.”

Those connections continue to play a role in her life today. Takashiba stays in touch with several friends from her Shidler years, including one who serves as her financial advisor.

Building a local business

Takashiba started MaruMaru Hawaii with her sister in 2015. She said it was hard to find local brands that offered clothes for kids, so they decided to create their own. The brand has taken off, and Takashiba has run into people at the airport and on vacation wearing her clothes.

“Our designs are super simple, but I think because they’re based on real things, it resonates with a lot of people,” said Takashiba.

Popular designs such as “Hilo Das Why” and “Hilo Love” reflect the brand’s commitment to represent Hilo and its people.

Rooted in Hilo

Despite the brand’s popularity, Takashiba has intentionally chosen to keep MaruMaru Hawaii rooted on the Big Island. She said she does not plan to expand through pop-ups on Oʻahu or other islands, even when opportunities arise.

“I think there’s something to be said about being able to give Hilo people something first,” said Takashiba. “There’s nothing like Hilo; it’s very special. The community here is amazing, you’re connected to everybody, and it’s just Hilo das why.”

University of �鶹��ý students helped reimagine an iconic local company by pitching bold new ideas for Meadow Gold Dairies �鶹��ý at a fast-paced innovation event. Hosted by UH Mānoa’s (PACE), the spring 2026 competition took place on March 28 and April 4, at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center.

Community connections take top prize

The team of Danielle Grace Banggo (dietetics, UH Mānoa) and Leticia Rodriguez Gutierrez (liberal arts, Honolulu Community College) won the $2,000 grand prize. Their strategy focused on a grassroots “Community Growth Campaign” designed to be both budget-friendly and ready for immediate rollout.

The plan involves deploying Meadow Gold trucks and vans to high-traffic local venues such as the Honolulu Zoo and community marketplaces. By utilizing brand ambassadors to engage directly with families, the team aims to strengthen the bond between the iconic brand and the local community.

“Innovate 808 taught me that your background doesn’t define your ability to make an impact,” Banggo said. “It encourages you to step outside your comfort zone, share your ideas and collaborate with others to create meaningful solutions. This experience empowered me to think creatively, communicate confidently and realize that even small ideas can make a big difference in the community.”

Three other teams won $1,000 runner up prizes, and another team won the $500 innovation award. Beyond the competition, Innovate 808 is designed to connect classroom learning with real-world experience. Students worked in interdisciplinary teams to tackle an active business challenge, building career-ready skills in communication, critical thinking and creative problem-solving while engaging directly with industry professionals.

Creative solutions for a new era

Concepts pitched during the competition included:

• Lani Moo Milk Candy: A sweet extension of the company’s famous mascot
• NIL Deals: Partnering with UH athletes to reach younger demographics
• POG 2.0: New bottle designs and updated formulations for the passion-orange-guava juice

Kimia Sadeghi, sales and marketing manager for Meadow Gold, said, “I wanted to hear from the next generation and how they think of executing solutions, and that’s exactly what happened.”

Meadow Gold Dairies �鶹��ý sponsored the project and prizes.

A “sprint” across all disciplines

Facilitated by Jeff Hui, entrepreneur-in-residence at PACE, the competition is designed to put real-world problems in front of students and see how they meet the challenge through research and innovation.

“The most exciting part for us is seeing students from all disciplines—business, engineering, computer science, art, education, anthropology and food science—coming together to come up with real solutions,” Hui said.

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 ’ (TIM School) hosted its 24th annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala on March 31 at the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach. As the largest fundraiser in support of TIM School student scholarships, the event raised more than $361,000 through the generous support of �鶹��ý’s hospitality and business community.

This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as the TIM School celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026, honoring six decades of preparing leaders who shape �鶹��ý’s visitor industry and the global travel economy.

“As we celebrate 60 years of the TIM School, this event reflects the strong partnership between our students and the industry they will soon lead,” said Vance Roley, dean of the Shidler College of Business and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. “The continued support from our community ensures that future graduates are equipped to advance a visitor industry that is innovative, responsible and grounded in �鶹��ý’s culture and values.”

Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism recognizes individuals and organizations that have made outstanding and lasting contributions to �鶹��ý’s visitor industry.

At the March 31 gala, the 2026 Legacy in Tourism Award was presented to Elliot Mills (BBA ’93), CEO and managing partner of �鶹��ý Hospitality Group. Mills was honored for his leadership and long-standing commitment to operational excellence, workforce development and strengthening �鶹��ý’s hospitality sector.

Kylie Matsuda-Lum (BS ’01), managing director of Kahuku Farms, was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor. A proud TIM alumna, Matsuda-Lum has helped transform her family’s agricultural enterprise into a successful agritourism destination that connects visitors with local agriculture, sustainability and community.

The Distinguished Service Award was presented to ClimbHI, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students explore career pathways and successfully transition from high school into post-secondary education and the workforce. Through industry partnerships and career readiness programs, ClimbHI plays a vital role in strengthening �鶹��ý’s future workforce.

The 2026 presenting sponsors were Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Bank of Hawaii. Central Pacific Bank, First Hawaiian Bank, Kamehameha Schools and Marriott International served as contributing sponsors, and Daniel K. Hilton was a platinum sponsor. �鶹��ý Business Magazine again returned as the media partner.

Support from sponsors, donors and community partners helps provide critical scholarship funding for students preparing for careers in hospitality, tourism and transportation. Since reunification with Shidler College in 2019, the school has:

• Introduced more than $1.5 million in new student scholarships
• Nearly doubled the size of the faculty
• Created six new faculty endowed fellowships and professorships
• Rising global and national rankings
• Increased undergraduate enrollment by 4.5% from 2024 to 2025
• Awarded more than $560,000 in scholarships during the 2025–26 academic year
• Enabled more than 90% of graduates to find employment or pursue graduate study within three months of graduation
• Established the TIM PhD program

To support the TIM School or Shidler College of Business, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of development, at jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org. .

Noelani Schilling-Wheeler, a University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� alumna, is the executive director of the Oʻahu Visitors Bureau (OVB), a department of the �鶹��ý Visitors & Convention Bureau (HVCB). Her responsibilities include developing strategies and tactics, with specific attention to the marketing and promotion of Oʻahu, and aligning those strategies and processes with community voices and government directives. Prior to her current position, she served as a director of sales and marketing at OVB, where she has worked for 28 years. She earned bachelor’s degrees in travel industry management and marketing from the Shidler College of Business in 1991.

Tell us about a day at the office

“Working at OVB is dynamic, and no two days are the same. I typically begin the day by reviewing in-progress projects, upcoming programs that require planning and any issues that need immediate attention. Once priorities are set, I move into focused work and meetings, connecting with industry partners, clients and internal teams to move initiatives forward and identify opportunities to strengthen our programs. A key part of my day is also supporting my team, checking in to ensure they have the tools, guidance and support needed to succeed and grow.”

How did your experiences at Shidler prepare you for what was to come?

“Shidler provided a strong academic foundation through both the marketing and travel industry management programs, supported by professors who invested in my growth. My experience there helped me with my decision to work in tourism marketing, and my interest in representing destinations respectfully and with purpose.”

What are some of your favorite memories of Shidler?

“My favorite memories are centered around student activities, such as participating in different clubs and TIM Night productions, and engaging with and building meaningful relationships with TIM School professors and our former dean, Chuck Gee, who had the best advice for each and every student.”

What’s your advice for current students?

“Never get too comfortable with what you think you know—learning should be constant. We live in a rapidly changing world, so stay curious, engaged and ahead of change. Remember that organizations function like living systems, and everything is connected. If you need to pivot yourself in your career or life, view it as an opportunity for growth, not a setback. Seek out mentors, ask questions, listen to diverse perspectives and take responsibility for your work. Always look for ways to enhance, elevate and expand programs, careers and personal paths. Most importantly, be pono in all that you do.”

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

The University of �鶹��ý Board of Regents approved awarding an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to Walter A. Dods Jr., recognizing his decades of leadership in �鶹��ý’s business community, his extensive philanthropic impact and his longstanding commitment to the university.

The regents voted at the board’s March 19 monthly meeting, held at Leeward Community College. The honorary degree will be formally conferred during the UH ����ԴDz�’s spring 2026 commencement ceremony, where Dods will also serve as commencement speaker.

“I am deeply honored and grateful to the University of �鶹��ý and the regents for this recognition,” said Dods after the vote. “UH has played an important role in my life, and it has been a privilege to support the university and its students over the years. I share this honor with the many people who have inspired me and worked alongside me to strengthen our community.”

Alumnus, business leader, philanthropist

A 1967 graduate of UH ����ԴDz�’s Shidler College of Business, Dods is widely regarded as one of �鶹��ý’s most influential business leaders. Over a 36-year career at First Hawaiian Bank, he rose from an entry-level role to chairman and CEO.

“Walter Dods represents the very best of what the University of �鶹��ý hopes to inspire in its graduates: leadership, service and an unwavering commitment to community,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “His impact on �鶹��ý’s economic development is profound, but equally important is his lifelong dedication to giving back and creating opportunities for others. He has opened doors for generations of students and strengthened this university in lasting ways.”

Deep UH support

His ties to UH span nearly five decades. Dods has been a donor since 1975 and previously served as president of the UH Foundation Board of Trustees. He chaired the university’s 1998 Campaign for �鶹��ý, which raised $116 million, and currently serves as campaign chair for the ongoing $1-billion “For UH, For �鶹��ý” fundraising effort.

His personal philanthropy includes a $5-million gift to support student innovation and entrepreneurship at UH ����ԴDz�, resulting in the naming of the Walter Dods Jr. RISE Center, as well as a $1-million endowed scholarship supporting immigrant students and their children.

Dods has previously been recognized with the UH Distinguished Alumni Award and the Shidler College of Business Hall of Honor Award.

The honorary doctorate recognizes individuals of national or international distinction whose contributions have had a significant impact in areas such as business, public service or scholarship. Regents cited Dods’ extraordinary career and enduring commitment to the university and the state as meeting and exceeding those standards.

For University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa finance and risk management professor Hua Chen, �鶹��ý’s unique geographic position as a bridge between Asia and the continental U.S. provides an ideal stage for his work. Here he can connect rigorous research with global, practice-focused teaching.

“What keeps me inspired as an educator and a researcher is the constant evolution of finance and the opportunity to continue learning while helping students make sense of it,” he said. “The field is never static—new risks arise, technologies reshape markets and global events challenge our understanding of uncertainty. This dynamism drives me to develop research projects and bring fresh insights into the classroom.”

Chen’s research focuses on financial stability and systemic risk, enterprise and corporate risk management, longevity and mortality risk and insurance economics. His work appears in widely cited publications in leading journals and drives the curriculum of his courses, shaping both the content and the approach of his instruction.

Reaching students, extending borders

Since joining the college in 2018, his impact has reached hundreds of students and extends across borders. Chen’s been recognized for his research contributions with numerous accolades, including the Junior Scholar Award from the Asia-Pacific Risk and Insurance Association, Temple University’s Award for High Achievement in Sponsored Research, an Excellence in Reviewing Award from the Journal of Risk and Insurance and “Professor of the Semester” in Shidler’s .

Chen, who is also the faculty director of the MSF program and the chair holder of the First Insurance Company Distinguished Professorship, said that being a part of the college has allowed him to make meaningful contributions to higher education and scholarly research, which he’s found to be profoundly rewarding. He also sits on editorial boards, participates in regular speaking engagements and is planning an international conference for July. For Chen, the ever-changing nature of finance is what keeps him energized.

For more on how Chen prepares students for careers in finance and other Shidler stories, see the .

When Lyra Pascual—a 2017 graduate of the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� and senior accountant at Nakupuna Companies—volunteered at the Ironman World Championship in 2024, an idea took root. Watching athletes cross the finish line, she wondered if she could do the same. There was a small problem—she didn’t know how to swim.

“Maybe some day,” she told herself.

Fast forward to a few months later when Pascual was talking with a friend and telling him that she wanted to learn to swim. He mentioned they should sign up for the Ironman together and she said, “if you do, I will.” And with that encouragement, they both signed up for their first race.

Pascual enlisted the help of Shidler college’s Director of Internship and Career Development Rick Varley and joined his TripleFit triathlon group. Varley has been an endurance coach for more than 25 years, his experience shaped by his own background as a collegiate sprinter. He was the first person to encourage her to get in the water.

“We didn’t work on strokes at first,” Varley said. “We just worked on breathing.”

Read about how Pascual overcame multiple challenges to cross her first finish line on pages 24–25 of the .

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� Shidler College of Business Alumni Association, a 501(c)(3) organization, hosted its 26th Annual Executive Vineyards fundraiser on March 5, 2026, at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort. The signature event raised more than $70,000 in support of the association’s mission to strengthen alumni engagement, advance student programming, provide scholarships and elevate the Shidler College of Business locally and globally.

This year’s gathering was especially meaningful, as it marked Dean Vance Roley’s final Executive Vineyards event in his role as dean, concluding more than two decades of leadership at the helm of the college.

Executive Vineyards remains the association’s premier fundraising event, bringing together alumni, �鶹��ý businesses, faculty, students and friends of the college for an evening of philanthropy and connection.

“As I reflect on more than two decades of service as dean, what resonates most deeply is the extraordinary commitment of our alumni and business community,” said Vance Roley, dean of the Shidler College of Business and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. “Executive Vineyards embodies the spirit of generosity and shared purpose. Year after year, the community’s support strengthens Shidler’s impact across �鶹��ý and around the world.”

The gathering attracted approximately 600 guests, who enjoyed an array of hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants, sampled a curated selection of wines and spirits, and networked against the backdrop of Diamond Head and Waikīkī Beach. Local newscaster Kelly Simek emceed the event. Guests also participated in a popular lucky draw and placed bids through an extensive online auction.

“We are proud to carry forward a tradition that not only raises critical support for students, but also strengthens the bonds within our Shidler ʻohana,” said Director of Strategic Growth, Maui Economic Development Board and event co-chair Yosef Onodera.

“Executive Vineyards continues to bring together generations of Shidler alumni and supporters who are united to invest in the college’s future,” added Adina Wakayama, accounting manager, Par Hawaii Inc. and event co-chair.

Spirits and wine were generously donated by Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits of Hawaii and Beverage Marketing & More. This year’s diamond sponsor was Par Hawaii; Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank, and The Shidler Group served as platinum sponsors; Pacific Business News returned as media sponsor.

While they were freshmen in the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa ’ Direct Admit Program, alumnae Amber Abara (BBA ’22, MS ’24) and Morgan “Birdy” Cobb (BBA ’22, MS ’24) crossed paths and quickly became best friends. What they didn’t know then was that their friendship would later spark a business—one inspired by a vivid dream Abara had during their master of science in marketing management program.

In the dream, she saw a soap bar shaped like a gua sha (smooth tool used to massage and stimulate the skin). When she shared it with Cobb, expecting a laugh, Cobb immediately responded, “Let’s do it.” That moment became the spark for a skincare company built around a farm-to-face philosophy.

Abara and Cobb source many of their ingredients from �鶹��ý farmers they know and trust, rooting their brand in community and sustainability. They also embrace the phrase “confidence from within,” which for them means feeling grounded in who you are the moment you wake up.

Their idea was deeply personal. Both struggled with acne for years and grew exhausted by the constant stream of advice, products and online trends promising perfect skin. They wanted something simpler—clean ingredients they understood, such as coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric, coffee and honey.

“The media details every trick, product and solution for your skin,” Cobb said. “What you eat, what pillowcases you sleep on, what oils, cleansers and tools you need to fix everything. I grew exhausted trying to sort through the advice of every influencer and article on the internet. I needed a product that made my life a little simpler, with ingredients I understood.”

Using sustainable, organic and local ingredients was equally important. Abara, raised in Kāneʻohe, grew up surrounded by lush landscapes and a strong culture of eating local, while Cobb—who moved from Colorado to Oʻahu at 17—quickly embraced �鶹��ý’s deep connection between land and community. Those values, particularly transparency and environmental care, now guide their brand called .

They took their idea further when a professor encouraged them to enter a (PACE) competition. Preparing for it pushed them to refine their branding, target market and overall vision. Although they didn’t advance, the experience confirmed that their dream had real potential. Later, they applied for and won a Kalo grant through PACE, giving them the seed funding needed to launch.

“I realized that my dream of a gua sha-shaped soap bar could actually become a real business when we won the Kalo grant,” Abara said.

With their entrepreneurial spark ignited—and support from Shidler’s programs—Abara and Cobb created the product they once needed.

For the entire story and more alumni stories, see the .