To tackle a critical nationwide shortage of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) professionals, the has secured a three-year, $441,645 (NSF) to launch a groundbreaking project: “CyberAI Innovation: AI-Enhanced Cyber Data Analytics Education.”

Led by Principal Investigator Debasis Bhattacharya and Co-Investigator Thomas Blamey, the initiative builds on previous NSF-funded efforts and directly addresses a vital local need, as �鶹��ý currently ranks among the top five states in the nation for unmet cybersecurity workforce demand.

“The intersection of AI, data analytics and cybersecurity is a critical frontier for modern digital defense,” said Bhattacharya, who also serves as the director of the . “With �鶹��ý facing such a steep challenge in meeting cybersecurity job demands, this grant enables us to build robust, early-career pipelines. We are excited to empower local educators and students with the advanced skills needed to protect our critical systems.”

New curriculum, training

The project will introduce an AI-integrated curriculum by embedding six new modules—including adversarial machine learning, AI-powered threat detection, secure AI pipelines and CyberAI ethics—across six core computer science courses at UH Maui College. Additionally, a three-year professional development program will deliver statewide faculty training across all seven UH community colleges and �鶹��ý Department of Education (HIDOE) secondary schools.

To cultivate early interest, the college will leverage the community of practice created by the NSF Project (a collaboration aimed at improving computer science education at the state level) to expand K–14 academic pathways. The project also extends beyond IT, developing customized cyberAI micro-modules for non-IT fields such as healthcare/nursing, automotive technology and accounting/finance.

AI, GenCyber cybersecurity camps

UH Maui College has also secured a supplement from the NSF to host two AI camps during the summers of 2027 and 2028 in conjunction with the HIDOE. These camps will provide middle and high school students with basic AI literacy, safety, well-being, vibe coding (software development utilizing AI) experience and guidance on responsible usage.

To continue the tradition of cybersecurity summer camps funded by the National Security Agency’s , UH Maui College has been awarded $89,537 to conduct two in-person student summer camps on Oʻahu and an online student camp during the summer of 2027. More details on all these camps will be available at .

(�鶹��ý P–20) will launch the first of its three-part “Fund Your Future” webinar series, beginning Tuesday, August 18, to assist local families with planning and preparation for continuing education or career training after high school graduation. All events are free of charge and available to all families regardless of where the student plans to attend college.

“�鶹��ý high school seniors and their families are encouraged to attend one session from each part of the Fund Your Future series to get a complete outlook of the many sources of financial aid available to local students, and how to pay to further your education after high school primarily using grants, scholarships, or other sources of financial aid,” said Lynsey Bow, postsecondary readiness director for �鶹��ý P–20. “College in �鶹��ý can be affordable, and local help is available to help families navigate this process.”

• Part 1: —Learn how to access more than $150 billion in federal grants, loans, and other financial aid, along with more than $70 million in scholarships awarded annually to �鶹��ý students. Financial aid is available for students attending two- and four-year colleges, as well as trade and vocational schools, supporting a wide range of post-high school education and career pathways. The first free workshop will be held Tuesday, August 18, 6–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. .
• Part 2: —Hear from experts representing Sallie Mae, the �鶹��ý Community Foundation, and the University of �鶹��ý System as they discuss scholarship opportunities available to �鶹��ý students, regardless of family income. Participants will also receive tips for using scholarship search tools and writing strong scholarship essays. The first of two virtual workshops will take place Thursday, November 5. .
• Part 3: Statewide virtual FAFSA completion workshops—Attendees will be able to ask questions and review the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2027–28 award year. These events will be held November through January, and registration will open soon. Federal Student Aid has announced that the FAFSA for the 2027–28 award year will become available October 1.

“While the FAFSA has been simplified and is now faster and easier to complete than in previous years, families should use the time before October 1 to gather any necessary financial information and supporting documentation,” said Frank Green, financial aid and FAFSA outreach specialist for �鶹��ý P–20. “Completing the FAFSA is required for many local and national scholarships, so we encourage students to apply early and take advantage of every financial aid opportunity for which they are eligible, while ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed.”

Families across the state are invited to send any questions about the college planning process, financial aid, or the FAFSA by emailing FAFSA@Hawaii.edu. All emails will be answered within 24 hours by a local financial aid specialist.

For a complete listing of upcoming college planning webinars, .

The has been ranked the in the nation by personal-finance website WalletHub. The 2026 study evaluated statewide systems across key metrics of cost and quality, including tuition rates, graduation rates and student-to-faculty ratios.

With seven campuses across the state—�鶹��ý CC, Honolulu CC, Kapiʻolani CC, Kauaʻi CC, Leeward CC, UH Maui College and Windward CC—the system offers more than 100 academic and career-focused programs.

Prospective students looking to live and thrive in �鶹��ý can choose from high-demand, high-growth pathways designed to provide higher pay, better work/life balance and career advancement. Options include a career-laddered nursing program at multiple campuses (from certified nurse aides to registered nurses), Windward CC‘s hands-on Veterinary Technology program, or Honolulu CC’s robust trades and technology programs, which feature information technology, automotive technology, and a welding program designed to meet American Welding Society entry-level standards.

“Our high national ranking is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff who make our campuses so special,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a working adult, or ready to return to college, there is still time. We have extended our fall application deadline to August 14. You can still take that next step and join us this fall.”

‘Especially attractive option’

Ninety percent of UH Community College graduates complete their degrees debt-free. Many are supported directly by the �鶹��ý Promise Program, which covers direct education costs including tuition, fees and books for eligible local residents.

There’s still time to enroll for the fall semester. . Classes begin August 24.

The UH Community Colleges offer day, evening, online and hybrid options designed to fit a variety of schedules, career goals and life stages.

WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo said, “Community colleges are an especially attractive option this year as many families deal with inflated prices.”

Educational benefits

A UH education remains one of the best investments students can make in their future. Graduates with an associate degree or career and technical certificate often earn higher wages when they enter the workforce than those without.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to maximize course options and allow time to complete financial aid, academic advising, registration and other enrollment steps. Enrollment specialists are available to provide personalized assistance with applying, financial aid, advising, registration and preparing for the first day of class.

Assistant Professor of Biology Jennifer Sims has been awarded a for the 2026–27 academic year. She will teach and conduct research at the .

Sims’ research focuses on microplastic pollution, plastic degradation and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled environmental monitoring, drawing connections between the shared environmental challenges facing island communities in Malta and �鶹��ý. Beginning in October 2026, Sims will spend nine months co-teaching biological oceanography and contributing to AI-driven citizen science programs and curriculum to expand undergraduate research opportunities.

“I’m honored to represent �鶹��ý Community College through the Fulbright Program and to connect what we’re learning here in �鶹��ý with global efforts to protect our oceans,” said Sims. “Microplastic pollution and ocean health are global challenges, but island communities often experience them first and most deeply. Collaborating with researchers in Malta gives us a powerful opportunity to share knowledge, compare ecosystems and work toward solutions that will benefit island communities around the world.”

Continued Fulbright success

Sims is the fifth Fulbright Scholar selected from �鶹��ý CC since 2010, continuing the college’s success in the competitive academic exchange program. The college was also recognized as a Top Producing Fulbright Institution in 2023 and 2024.

“One of the reasons �鶹��ý CC has had such success with producing Fulbright Scholars is our kauhale (village)-wide commitment to supporting international collaboration,” said Professor Pamela Scheffler, a two-time awardee and �鶹��ý CC’s Fulbright liaison. “Having a Fulbright liaison on campus means that faculty and staff are supported from before they even make the decision to apply.”

Related stories:

• Turtle tagging: Hands-on research for �鶹��ý CC Marine Option Program students
• �鶹��ý CC recognized as top Fulbright producing institution
• Stingless bees focus of �鶹��ý CC Fulbright Scholar research

Fulbright Scholar awards for the 2027–28 academic year are until September 15, 2026, and the award cycle for the 2028–29 academic year will open in February 2027.

—By Katie Young Yamanaka

Honolulu Community College has appointed Sara M. Butler as vice chancellor of academic affairs (VCAA), effective August 5, 2026.

As VCAA, Butler will serve as Honolulu CC‘s chief academic officer, overseeing instructional programs, academic support services, curriculum and accreditation efforts, and working closely with Chancellor Karen Lee and campus leadership to advance the college’s academic mission.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Butler to Honolulu CC and excited she has joined our team,” Lee said. “She brings a wealth of experience in curriculum development, accreditation, strategic enrollment and student success initiatives. Her proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships across faculty, staff and community partners will elevate our students’ experiences and create opportunities for their future.”

Helping students achieve their goals

Throughout her career, Butler has led work in strategic enrollment management, dual enrollment expansion, distance education, program review and outcomes assessment, and accreditation. She has also worked with Indigenous-serving institutions, including the California Indian Nations College.

“I am truly honored and grateful to join the Honolulu CC ʻohana. I am looking forward to learning from my colleagues, the students and community partners so that I can support Honolulu CC’s dedicated faculty and staff as they play a pivotal role in helping our students achieve their academic and professional goals,” Butler said.

New leader’s experience

Butler brings almost two decades of academic experience, having taught in the City University of New York, California State University, and University of California systems. She began her full-time teaching career in the California Community College system, earning tenure as a political science professor at College of the Desert in Palm Desert.

Her administrative career started as a dean at College of the Desert. In 2022, Butler served concurrently as both dean of social sciences and arts and interim vice president of instruction. She later served as dean of academic affairs at Santa Ana College. She is joining Honolulu CC from Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa, where she was dean of languages, arts and academic support.

Butler holds a PhD and MA in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a BA in history and political science from the College of Staten Island.

Incarcerated individuals on Kauaʻi have a transformative pathway toward workforce readiness and higher education, through a new partnership between Kauaʻi Community College and the Kauaʻi Community Correctional Center (KCCC).

This summer, Kauaʻi CC Carpentry Instructor Duke Lang led a cohort of 16 students at KCCC through a carpentry microcredential offered by the college’s Office of Continuing Education and Training (OCET). Participants gained practical experience by constructing a new classroom and office space, a project designed to resolve the shortage of secure instructional areas at the facility.

For student Stephen Spigner, who is nearing his release, the program served as a critical turning point.

“It seems sort of like a miracle,” Spigner said. “It’s really divine timing that this program is being offered while I’m here.”

Laying the foundation

Upon completing the microcredential, students earn credit for foundational coursework. This allows them to bypass introductory classes if they enroll in the college’s associate in applied science in carpentry program after their release.

“We’re hoping to give them a different opportunity when they get out from doing their time here,” Lang said. “The feedback they’re giving me is, ‘Wow, I can really see how this can be useful. When I get out, I think I’m going to come see you.’”

Kauaʻi CC Chancellor Margaret Sanchez said the lack of a secure space for classes at KCCC has been a hurdle, but with the completion of the classroom, the partnership can continue to grow.

“The students are learning hands-on to provide a classroom space to increase future educational opportunities at KCCC,” Sanchez said.

‘Knowledge is power’

The initiative is building bridges to long-term stability.

“The students are engaged,” said KCCC Educational Specialist Darcy Yamamoto. “They’re asking questions. They are diligent about coming to class. We’re hoping they will have an idea of what they want to do or the path that they need to be on.”

OCET Education Specialist Pomai Burkart added, “There’s a sense of dignity these students are going to have when they leave KCCC,” she said. “Knowledge is power, and you can’t take knowledge away from someone.”

.

—By Caitlin B. Fowlkes

The seven University of �鶹��ý Community Colleges, UH Hilo and UH West Oʻahu have extended their application deadline to August 14, giving prospective students additional time to apply and begin classes this fall. UH Mānoa’s application deadline has passed, but all students who have been accepted are encouraged to enroll and register for classes.

Apply, explore programs or connect with an enrollment specialist

Fall classes begin August 24.

“Many people assume they have missed their opportunity once summer is coming to an end, but that is simply not the case,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a working adult or someone ready to return to college, there is still time. We want to help you take that next step because there is a place for you at UH.”

Students can choose from nearly 200 degree, certificate and career and technical education programs across the 10-campus UH System, with day, evening, online and hybrid options designed to fit a variety of schedules, career goals and life circumstances. Whether students are looking to start college, prepare for a new career, earn a credential or continue toward a bachelor’s degree, there are still opportunities to begin this fall.

Affordable, flexible and worth the investment

A UH education is more affordable than many people realize. Most UH students graduate debt free, with about 90% of UH Community College graduates and nearly 70% of graduates from UH‘s four-year campuses completing their degrees without student loan debt. Eligible community college students may also qualify for the �鶹��ý Promise Program, which helps cover direct education costs for tuition, fees and books.

“There has never been a better time to invest in yourself,” said Lui Hokoana, interim vice president for the UH Community Colleges. “Whether your goal is to earn a degree, gain workforce credentials, transfer to a four-year university or explore a new career, we are ready to help you get started.”

A UH education remains one of the best investments students can make in their future. Graduates with a bachelor’s degree, associate degree or career and technical certificate often see the benefits right away, earning higher wages when they enter the workforce while building toward lifetime earnings that can exceed $2 million more than those of someone without a college education. They also enjoy greater career opportunities, stronger job security and increased access to benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans and paid leave.

Personalized support every step of the way

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to maximize course options and allow time to complete financial aid, academic advising, registration and other enrollment steps before classes begin on August 24. Students do not have to navigate the process alone. Enrollment specialists are available to provide personalized assistance with applying, financial aid, advising, registration and preparing for the first day of class.

To apply, explore programs or connect with an enrollment specialist, visit applytouh.org.

This week’s UH News Image of the Week is from Kapiʻolani Community College Liberal Arts undergraduate Maliny Soukkhasem.

Soukkhasem shared: “This past Spring on Kapiʻolani Community College campus. I won in the student division for lei contest. This is a photo of my Spanish professor who also won in her faculty division. It was a special moment to share in this winning experience on campus together since class was online.”

Send us your image!

Previous Images
Hammerhead Sharks
Lei making
35mm photoshoot
Noni lab
May Day, 1952
All Images of the Week

A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the UH ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next UH News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

• .

Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other UH connection. By submitting your image, you are giving UH News permission to publish your photo on the UH News website and UH social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

A food innovation project comes full circle in August, when students from Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture will travel to �鶹��ý to reunite with culinary students. The teams will refine recipes for shelf-stable products and gather consumer feedback at the , transforming an international classroom partnership into a real-world experience.

Earlier this summer, Kapiʻolani CC students traveled to Fukuoka to explore the product development process, experimenting with mentsuyu (Japanese noodle soup base), dashi (soup stock), and locally sourced Japanese ingredients.

“Working with students from Fukuoka opened my eyes to the way culture influences our flavor preferences and how that plays such a significant role in selecting your audience when developing a new product,” said Kapiʻolani CC culinary student Rachael Mathers. “The Japanese students leaned more towards traditional flavor profiles while we experimented with flavors that were familiar to us in �鶹��ý.”

Combining culture, creativity

Students visited dashi maker Kubara Honke Kayanoya, met with Fukuoka prefectural government leaders, and explored regional markets featuring local food products.

“This partnership gives students the opportunity to experience the food innovation process from an international lens,” said Lauren Tamamoto, assistant professor and coordinator of the Takitani Foundation Innovation Center. “They are not just learning about food—they are learning how culture and creativity come together to create collaborative products.”

Now in its fourth year, the partnership between Kapiʻolani CC and the Fukuoka Prefecture Government has evolved from culinary competitions into a three-year food-innovation project called One Health.

“�鶹��ý and Fukuoka share a fundamental understanding that the health of our environment is directly connected to the health of our food and our people,” said Kapiʻolani CC Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “This partnership reflects our kuleana (responsibility) to �鶹��ý, its people and ʻāina (land), while preparing students to become thoughtful innovators who strengthen their communities. We are deeply grateful to the Fukuoka Prefectural Government and our educational partners for their friendship and collaboration over the years, and we look forward to continuing our shared commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future.”

The public is invited to sample the students’ creations at the on August 22, 2026, from 7:30 to 11 a.m.

—By Lisa Yamamoto

For two Kapiʻolani Community College students, studying �鶹��ý’s kōlea (Pacific golden plovers) took them from campus to the birds’ Arctic breeding grounds in Alaska.

In late June, Kealaokalani Kaaloa and Thor Donola traveled to Nome, Alaska, as �鶹��ý Audubon Society Kōlea Quest scholarship recipients.

“One thing that was really put into perspective for me is just how little we truly know about bird species,” said Kaaloa, a biology major. “Just the concept of the kōlea migrating to Alaska was too vast to really grasp how incredible the journey really is, until you put yourself on a plane and actually go to Alaska.”

Over five days, the group observed at least 15 kōlea, documented 70 Arctic bird species and explored the Bering Strait region. The Kapiʻolani CC students also shared their �鶹��ý-based research with fellow participants.

Recommended by Kapiʻolani CC professor of biology and ecology Wendy Kuntz, who organized and led the trip, Kaaloa and Donola became the college’s eighth and ninth participants in the Kōlea Quest program since 2023.

“Observing kōlea on their summer breeding grounds and experiencing the tundra helps students to connect the questions we explore together at Kapiʻolani CC to the broader story of migration and conservation, and to the biological and cultural ties between �鶹��ý and Alaska,” Kuntz said.

Sharing culture

At a Katirvik Cultural Center gathering, Kaaloa offered traditional chants, including Kū Ka ʻ������, “Transformed Waterworn Stones,” composed by Kapiʻolani CC Vice Chancellor ����ɲ�ʻ�� Napoleon, to elders of the King Island community.

“Through sharing our culture together, I’ve come to realize that the most important thing one must do to keep their culture and their history alive is to have pride in it,” said Kaaloa. “When songs and art are continued through the youth, the culture will continue to live.”

The students will conduct future kōlea counts in �鶹��ý, support community outreach events and visit classrooms to share their experience. Their participation was made possible through �鶹��ý Audubon Society scholarships, with airfare funded by the Kapiʻolani CC Lunalilo Scholars Program (which offers scholarships, mentoring and a strong support network).

—By Lisa Yamamoto

As the University of �鶹��ý continues to enhance its digital learning infrastructure, a new tool is rolling out this fall 2026 to support academic integrity and student flexibility. The new tool will allow educators to conduct online proctored exams and quizzes across the UH 10 campus system.

The new online proctoring tools by Honorlock will be integrated directly into Lamakū, the university’s learning management system. Because it integrates directly into Lamakū, UH students do not need to create a separate account, schedule appointments or commute to a physical testing center to take their assessments.

The platform’s 24/7 availability is designed to accommodate the varied lives of modern distance-learning students.

“This provides students in online courses the flexibility to complete their exam when it best fits their schedule, during the exam window established by the course instructor,” said UH Chief Academic Technology Innovation Officer Gloria Niles.

Exam proctoring options

Most exams will utilize Honorlock’s automated, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven online proctoring tool. In these AI-only sessions, the software records the test-taker’s webcam, microphone and screen without the presence of a real-time human monitor. The AI flags specific behaviors—such as talking, looking away from the screen, accessing search engines, or using unauthorized devices—and compiles a report for the instructor’s review and discretion.

For exams requiring higher security, an “AI + Live Pop-In” version is also available. This upgraded option includes a human proctor who monitors the AI session in real-time and may intervene with the student if a potential violation is detected. Instructors seeking to use the Live Pop-In version must get approval from their UH campus leadership due to a per-student charge to the campus, which cannot be passed on to the student. Regardless of the proctoring version used, the instructor retains full authority to make final decisions on any flagged behaviors.

Training and resources

To prepare for this rollout, the developed an Honorlock resource and practice exam, available for self-enrollment in the Lamakū Discover area. This allows both faculty and students to experience the AI-only tool in a low-pressure environment. For ongoing assistance, Honorlock technical support is available to test-takers 24/7/365 via email and live chat.

The University of �鶹��ý celebrates August 2026 faculty and staff anniversaries.

50 years

Doktor, Robert
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Leonhardt, Kenneth W
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

40 years

Davis IV, Harry B
Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Debrah, Joan M
Instructor, UH ����ԴDz�

Higa, Ross R
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

Jensen, Craig M
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

McCraw, David R
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Nakamoto, Michele S Y
Fiscal Specialist, UH System

30 years

Black, Rhonda S
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Castellano, Fabiola N
Administrative Assistant, Leeward CC

Daehler, Curtis C
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Iwai, Tomoko
Instructor, UH ����ԴDz�

Lee, Femar R
Professor, Honolulu CC

Lum, Anne E
Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Malm, Elaina A
Assistant Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Mine, Jodi A K
Vice Chancellor, �鶹��ý CC

Misawa, Mitsuru
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Napoleon, David N
Vice Chancellor, Kapiʻolani CC

Nylen, Rae H
Instructor, UH ����ԴDz�

Opulauoho, Leslie L
Assistant Specialist, UH West Oʻahu

Overstreet, Maryann E
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Pourjalali, Hamid
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Shinagawa, Satoru
Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Tonry, John L
Researcher, UH ����ԴDz�

20 years

Adrian, Julie A L
Professor, UH Hilo

Agcaoili, Aurelio S
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Babcock, Mary K
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Baker, Charlene K
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Bernstein, Erica G
Instructor, UH Hilo

Bertz, Edward O
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Borza, Edmund J
Assistant Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Cai, Weirong
Professor, Leeward CC

Coyamin Jr, R A
General Laborer, Kauaʻi CC

Daniels, Ryan B
Professor, UH Maui College

Ferguson, Michael J
Professor, Windward CC

Frueh, Bartley C
Professor, UH Hilo

Fujita, James H
Professor, Leeward CC

Glazer, Brian T
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Golub, Alex J
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Guerzhoy, Pavel
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Hamilton Faris, Jaimey E
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Heller, Mary F
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Higa, Marguerite A
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Ishihara, Christine K M V
Vice Chancellor, UH Maui College

Jiang, Hong
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Kalk, Jonathan W
Professor, Kauaʻi CC

Khaleghi, Gholam H
Professor, Leeward CC

Kim, Bryan S
Professor, UH Hilo

Kimura, Ehito
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Komatsu, Chris T
IT Specialist, UH System

Kukahiko, Eomailani K
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Lachman, Andrew A
Auxiliary And Facilities Services Manager, UH ����ԴDz�

Li, Hongwei
Associate Professor, Windward CC

Lono, Shannon K
Administrative Assistant, Leeward CC

Loong, Chet-Yeng
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Lopes, Natasha M P
Instructor, UH ����ԴDz�

Lu, Kristina Y
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Lundblad, Steven P
Professor, UH Hilo

Mexia, Jeffrey K
Dean, Kauaʻi CC

Nguyen, Thanh T T
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Nixon, David C
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Okazaki, Kim Y
Administrative Officer, UH ����ԴDz�

Ono, Ira-Vance M
Painter, UH ����ԴDz�

Osborne, Thomas A
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Park, Hyoung-June
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Park, Mee-Jeong
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Petersen, Carole
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Powers, Julie E
Professor, UH Maui College

Reelitz, Ena T C
Child Care Center Teacher, UH ����ԴDz�

Reemelin, Spencer C
Instructor, UH ����ԴDz�

Reiss, Suzanna J
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Robinson, Scott D
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Rosenlee, Li-Hsiang L
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Scheffler, Pamela Y
Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Scully, Michael
Professor, Leeward CC

Sharma, Nandita
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Shek, Dina M
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Shibuya, Noriko
Janitor, Windward CC

Shumway, Todd R
Junior Specialist, UH Hilo

Singh, Navtej
Professor, Windward CC

Szostak, John D
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Tagami, Jeffrey S
Fiscal Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Takamiya, Marianne
Professor, UH Hilo

Tarui, Nori
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Teramoto, Jennifer L
Contract and Grants Specialist, UH System

Wen, Hsing
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Williams, Philip G
Dean, UH ����ԴDz�

Wilson, Stefanie D
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Yoshida, Joseph D
Assistant Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Yung, Felicia B K F
Financial Aid Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

10 years

Allen, Sarah T
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Atalag, Ozan
Associate Professor, UH Hilo

Bisbee, Michelle A
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Bussiere, Simon M
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Chinen-Moore, Joanne S
Instructor, UH West Oʻahu

Ching, Kelli W J L
Educational Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Ching, Penny D O S
Student Services Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Custodio, Ricardo C
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Dagdag, Faustino
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

De Soto, Kate L E
Associate Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Dill, Susie M D
Assistant Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Dinh, David L
Instructor, UH West Oʻahu

Duong, Danny K Y
Janitor, Honolulu CC

Edwards Jr, Donald B
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Ehlers, Sharon M
Assistant Professor, Kauaʻi CC

Erum, Alexis J
Associate Professor, Kauaʻi CC

Fujii, Rayna R H
Associate Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Galicinao, Jeffrey A
Lab Manager, UH West Oʻahu

Gonzales, Coty J
Associate Professor, Honolulu CC

Goodwin, Jeff L
Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Gorbach, Julien S
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Haag, Andre R
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Hensley, Patricia K
Associate Professor, UH Hilo

Ho, Jeffrey B
Assistant Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Hopela, Charlene
Distance Education Specialist, UH West Oʻahu

Horovitz, Liana M
Associate Professor, UH Maui College

Itoga, Holly T
Associate Professor, UH West Oʻahu

James, Laurie Y
Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Johnson, Irene Y L
Administrative and Fiscal Support Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Jube, Sandro L R
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

Kaio, Pele H
Assistant Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Kanahele, Tracy N K H
Assistant Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Kao, Pei-Ling
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Knope, Matthew L
Assistant Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Konh, Bardia
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Kotecki, Kristine E
Associate Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Laimana, John K
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

Liu, Veny
Associate Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Mar, Christina J
Assistant Professor, Kauaʻi CC

Martin, Margary
Associate Professor, UH Hilo

Masuda, Akihiko
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

McCafferty, Heather R K
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

McDonnell, Bradley J
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

McGuire, Laura M
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Medeiros, Matthew C I
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Mitchell, Craig D
Instructor, �鶹��ý CC

Miyahara, Nolan M
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

Namba, Ruria
Associate Professor, �鶹��ý CC

Neo, Rachel L
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Nguyen, Nhu H
Researcher, UH ����ԴDz�

Ninci, Jennifer M
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Odani, Jenee S
Veterinarian, UH System

Ongosia, Elisa T
Residence Life Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Paulo, Julius R S
IT Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Prudencio, Jarred B M
Associate Professor, UH Hilo

Puniwai, Noelani P F
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Quintus, Seth
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Rader, John C
Assistant Professor, Kapiʻolani CC

Reyes, Nicole A
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Romero, Yasmine A
Associate Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Ross, Megan C
Associate Professor, UH West Oʻahu

Sergi, Huijin K
Assistant Professor, Leeward CC

Sharma, Rina
IT Specialist, UH ����ԴDz�

Shinagawa, Myles T
Building Maintenance Worker, UH ����ԴDz�

Sierralta, Karla I
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Smith, Amanda R
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Stepec, Joseph A
Associate Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Teramoto, Teri A K
University Security Officer, Kapiʻolani CC

Thornton, Paul D
Associate Professor, UH Maui College

Walguarnery, Justin W
Assistant Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

Watkins, Stephen W
Assistant Professor, Kauaʻi CC

White, Sherrie
Lab Manager, UH ����ԴDz�

Yogi, Susan Y
Educational Specialist, UH West Oʻahu

Zhang, Guohui
Professor, UH ����ԴDz�

The (CIP) at Kapiʻolani Community College has opened applications for two advanced culinary courses focused on whole-animal butchery, smoking, curing and sausage making. The first-of-its-kind training is part of a Workforce Development Program partnership with the Culinary Institute of America (CIA).

Applications are open through August 21. To learn more or apply, visit .

These five-day, hands-on training sessions are offered at CIP, and were developed specifically for �鶹��ý’s culinary industry using ingredients and resources available in the state. Full tuition scholarships are available to help upskill �鶹��ý’s culinary professionals without leaving the islands.

“�鶹��ý is home to incredible culinary talent, and our goal is to expand opportunities for chefs to continue learning and growing without leaving the islands,” said Grant Itomitsu, Kapiʻolani CC Culinary Arts Department chair. “By bringing nationally recognized instructors together with our local culinary community, we’re giving chefs the advanced skills to grow their careers and strengthen their kitchens. This program helps advance more sustainable and ethical practices while shaping the future of regional cuisine.”

Cohort 23: Butchery & Whole Animal Utilization (Part 1)

• September 14–18, 2026: Participants will develop essential knife and fabrication skills while learning primal and sub-primal breakdown, nose-to-tail cooking and methods for improving yield and reducing waste.

Cohort 24: Smoke & Sausage: The Craft and Science of Preserving Meat (Part 2)

• September 21–25, 2026: Participants will explore the techniques behind smoking, curing, dehydration and sausage production by preparing jerky, fresh and cured sausages, and smoked meats.

Both cohorts are led by CIA chef educator George Shannon and nationally recognized butcher Bryan Mayer, a staff member and instructor at Kapiʻolani CC.

Applications are open through August 21. To learn more or apply, visit .

Eligibility and scholarships

Applicants must be 18 or older, a �鶹��ý resident or active military member stationed in �鶹��ý, and have at least three years of professional culinary experience. Scholarships, valued at $1,500, are funded by the �鶹��ý Ag & Culinary Alliance (HACA) CIP x CIA Workforce Development Scholarship Fund and the State of �鶹��ý.

To support this initiative through a charitable gift to the scholarship fund, contact HACA Vice President Aya Leslie at aya@hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com.

This week’s UH News Image of the Week is from UH ����ԴDz� undergraduate and Office of Communications student worker Natasha Maafala during a visit to (HIMB) on Moku o Loʻe in ����Ա�ʻ�dz�� Bay.

Maafala and fellow Office of Communications student workers Liliana Okimoto and Emili Phomsouvanh had the opportunity to experience some of HIMB research—including young hammerhead shark—and educational outreach.

From the “living laboratory” of �鶹��ý, HIMB advances fundamental research and develops new technologies to address the challenges facing �鶹��ý, the Pacific, and the world’s oceans.

Send us your image!

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A big mahalo to everyone who has sent in their images! If selected, they will be posted throughout the semester, so check back to see the amazing work, research and experiences of the UH ʻohana!

Want to get in on the action? The next UH News Image of the Week could be yours! Submit a photo, drawing, painting, digital illustration of a project you are working on, a moment from a field research outing or a beautiful and/or interesting shot of a scene on your campus. It could be a class visit during which you see an eye-catching object or scene.

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Please include a brief description of the image and its connection to your campus, class assignment or other UH connection. By submitting your image, you are giving UH News permission to publish your photo on the UH News website and UH social media accounts. The image must be your original work, and anyone featured in your image needs to give consent to its publication.

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More ʻŌlelo of the Week

Check back for more ʻōlelo �鶹��ý.

—Moanikeʻala Nabarro, Office of Communications, Ke Kulanui o �鶹��ý ma Mānoa (University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa)

For more information on other elements of the definition and usage, go to the UH Hilo .

Andrew “Keahi” Castro, a Windward Community College student, has created ������ō�Բ��Ա�, a free online platform dedicated to the Hawaiian strategy game kōnane, which was traditionally played with black and white stones. Inspired by his desire to reconnect with his heritage, Castro aims to bring the game into the digital age.

“I wanted to make sure a Hawaiian game had just as much intentionality and respect as chess,” Castro said. “I wanted everyone in the world to be able to play it.”

Using his background in mathematics and statistics, Castro spent years building . The platform features live multiplayer games, tournaments, puzzles and an artificial intelligence opponent named Lopako. Unlike many gaming sites, it is completely free and ad-free.

Connecting to culture

Castro developed the platform as a student in Windward CC’s fully online program in Hawaiian studies called .

His grandparents moved from Oʻahu to California in the 1950s. Raised in California and now living in Washington, Castro found the �鶹��ýloa program an essential bridge to his roots.
“I’ve always wanted to learn more about �鶹��ý and my culture,” Castro said. “�鶹��ýloa seemed like a great opportunity for it.”

Despite the distance, the �鶹��ýloa program fostered a strong sense of community, and Castro is on track to earn an associate degree in Hawaiian studies in the fall.

“The online classes have been great,” he said. “The classmates I’ve worked with have been great, and I’ve made some great connections. Even being far away, it’s helped me feel connected.”

For future generations

Castro is integrating ʻŌlelo �鶹��ý (Hawaiian language) throughout the site, including support for specialized characters in chat and usernames. He hopes to eventually offer an Hawaiian-language version.

Ultimately, he hopes the platform will preserve the game for future generations.

“Everyone was playing it,” Castro said. “It can be played all the time again.”

—By Nakoa Camvel