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.

The University of �鶹��ý hosted its inaugural AI Institute Day at the UH Mānoa Campus Center Ballroom. Co-sponsored by the Office of the President and the State of �鶹��ý Workforce Development Council, the gathering drew 158 in-person and 388 virtual participants across the UH System on August 11. The event was structured to help the university transition from isolated, individual AI experimentation to coordinated, systemwide innovation.

AI Institute Day welcomed guest speaker Asim Ali, executive director of Auburn University’s Biggio Center and board president of UPCEA, an online and professional education association. Ali urged attendees to look past the technical hype of “prompt engineering” and instead approach AI as an ongoing, conversational dialogue. He highlighted the role of humans in training and refining generative AI, noting that “until we get to a system that’s able to teach itself… humans are still absolutely needed.”

Ali also introduced the concept of “unbundling” professional work into automated, augmented and human-only tasks. Citing data from tech consulting company Accenture and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Ali predicted that by 2030, a third of workforce tasks will fall into each of these categories. He emphasized that technology is only beneficial if it frees up time for high-value human interaction rather than simply creating more work.

“There’s a lot of noise out there that is going to have almost no impact on your work, and you don’t have to know the daily update of everything that’s happening in the AI world,” said Ali. “But there are a few things that are grounded truths that aren’t going to change anytime soon that are fundamental parts of how the technology works that will endure and it is good and it is safe to invest your time in.”

$100 million investment

UH President Wendy Hensel described AI as “an infusion that touches all things” that will fundamentally reshape UH operations, teaching and thinking. She announced a planned investment of approximately $100 million across UH to boost student success, infrastructure and AI capabilities.

“We are either going to lean into this change and shape it and brand it and focus on who we are as a community and make it work or we’re going to constantly be waving in the wind as these things roll out and find ourselves in a defensive posture,” Hensel said.

To coordinate this scale, Hensel revealed UH is hiring its first Associate Vice President for Workforce Development. This joins strategic partnerships with Google, Microsoft and MIT, alongside current initiatives such as the free, 12 chapter courses, a centralized and faculty curriculum incentives.

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.

The Office of the Governor and the University of �鶹��ý today announced that deployment of $149.5-million in federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) projects is set to begin to bring reliable high-speed internet connections to �鶹��ý‘s most rural and underserved communities. This effort marks a major milestone in the state’s ongoing initiative to provide universal access to affordable broadband internet on every island.

�鶹��ý has finalized a $34-million contract with Hawaiian Telcom to deliver fiber-optic service to approximately 5,800 homes that currently lack modern broadband access. The effort, coordinated by the University of �鶹��ý Broadband Office, follows years of planning, community engagement, and a competitive bidding process to ensure connectivity reaches those who need it most.

Across the state, the BEAD program targets approximately 7,000 unserved and underserved locations, with about 82% of these locations slated to be served through state-of-the-art fiber-optic infrastructure.

“Reliable, modern Internet infrastructure is critical to help ensure that all of our communities have access to information and opportunities for healthcare, education, commerce and public safety,” said Governor Green. “All of our residents benefit when we can leverage federal investments that truly complement and amplify the efforts of our local business partners like Hawaiian Telcom.”

“The University is proud to continue to lead �鶹��ý‘s public investments in internet infrastructure that will ensure our residents and business are globally competitive for years to come,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “Open access to information, resources and collaborations are key to enabling our residents to thrive and prosper.”

This partnership with Hawaiian Telcom represents the first major wave of work to build modern fiber internet connections, expanding the state’s reach further into local communities to reach difficult-to-provision locations.

“This incredible BEAD award complements our more sustainable, long-term investment,” said Su Shin, president of Hawaiian Telcom. “We are investing $1.7 billion to make �鶹��ý the first fiber-enabled state in the country.”

Connect �����dz�

The BEAD investment is integral to the state’s broader Connect �����dz� initiative, which aims to close the digital divide and increase access to life-enhancing broadband benefits, such as telework, remote learning, telehealth, and fostering community connections. This crucial “last-mile” deployment directly complements other major internet infrastructure investments currently underway, including subsea fiber-optic systems being deployed by Ocean Networks and Google that will fortify �鶹��ý‘s role as a digital hub.

For more information on the BEAD program and �鶹��ý‘s ongoing efforts to connect all residents, visit Connect .

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�

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!

Previous Images
Lei making
35mm photoshoot
Noni lab
May Day, 1952
Weekend weather
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.

—Name, term, title.

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 .

This week’s UH News Image of the Week is from Leeward Community College.

“Leeward Community College staff and students participate in a lei-making workshop organized by the college’s Office of Workforce Development and led by Honolulu floral and botanical studio Palai �鶹��ý. The hands-on team-building event encouraged creativity, cultural learning and connections. Photo by Maria Orona.”

.

Previous Images
35mm photoshoot
Noni lab
May Day, 1952
Weekend weather
Monk seals
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

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.

—Paddle (As a canoe).

More ʻŌlelo of the Week

“E kaupē aku nō i ka hoe a kō mai (Put forward the paddle and draw it back).”

—Lanakila Grosse, he haumāna ʻōlelo �鶹��ý (Hawaiian language student), Ke Kulanui Kaiāulu o Honolulu (Honolulu Community College)

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

Elected chair of the (BOR) on July 2, Lauren Akitake became the first woman from the neighbor islands to lead the university’s governing board. She presided over her first meeting as chair on July 16, beginning her leadership of the 11-member board responsible for setting policy and providing oversight for UH‘s 10-campus system.

Akitake serves alongside UH President Wendy Hensel, marking the first time women are leading both the university’s governing board and administration.

“Chair Akitake brings a deep commitment to public service, a strong connection to our communities and a thoughtful approach to leadership,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “Her experience as a regent, educator and attorney provides a strong foundation for this important role. I look forward to working alongside her as we continue advancing the University of �鶹��ý‘s mission and creating opportunities for our students, faculty, staff and communities across the state.”

Since joining the BOR in 2023 representing Maui County—with a term running through 2028—Akitake has taken on increasing leadership responsibilities before being elected chair. She previously chaired the BOR Committee on Institutional Success, helping oversee policy discussions and recommendations that support UH‘s mission and strategic priorities.

Akitake’s election also follows a transition for the BOR, which welcomed five new members at its July 16 meeting. She said she looks forward to working with the new regents, who bring experience and fresh perspectives as the board continues guiding UH‘s future.

Rooted in Maui, connected to UH

Akitake, who was born and raised in Waiehu, Maui, shared how her background brought her to this role.

“To say this is an honor is an understatement,” she said. “I was shaped by my community, my public school teachers, and the values I learned at home. I carry that foundation with me, and it is what brought me to this seat today. This is more than an honor. It is a responsibility to serve the University of �鶹��ý system—our students, faculty, staff and the communities we are entrusted to serve across �鶹��ý and beyond.”

At the center of our work must be our students—their experience and their success—while supporting their academic and life journey.
—Lauren Akitake

Akitake taught business law at from 2015 to 2021, and currently serves as the first executive director and legal counsel for the Maui County Board of Ethics and was a per diem District Court judge for the Second Circuit.

With nearly two decades of legal experience—including work in civil litigation, estate planning, trust administration and guardianship proceedings—she earned her bachelor’s degree from Pomona College, a master’s degree from the University of Stirling, and her juris doctor from the University of Kansas, having completed her third year at UH ����ԴDz�’s .

As BOR chair, Akitake will help guide UH‘s strategic direction while keeping students central to the board’s efforts.

“At the center of our work must be our students—their experience and their success—while supporting their academic and life journey,” Akitake said. “I look forward to working with you to strengthen this university—not only as a place of learning, but as a destination for world-class research, academics, athletics, innovation and service to our communities.”

The University of �鶹��ý and the University Laboratory School (ULS) have finalized a new facilities use and occupancy agreement, cementing their shared commitment to �鶹��ý students and educators.

The agreement establishes an initial three-year term through June 30, 2029, with a mutual option to extend for an additional five years through June 30, 2034. This arrangement ensures operational stability for the Lab School and aligns with its upcoming charter renewal cycle.

“The University Laboratory School has been an integral part of the University of �鶹��ý since 1931, serving as both a laboratory for educational innovation and an important member of our university community,” UH President Wendy Hensel said. “This agreement demonstrates that we can be responsible stewards of university resources while strengthening a partnership that benefits students, educators and our broader community.”

ULS Principal A. Keoni Jeremiah noted that the agreement marks an important milestone for the school.

“We are grateful for the open line of communication and collaborative spirit that made this agreement possible. This agreement strengthens our longstanding partnership with the University of �鶹��ý and provides a strong foundation for continued collaboration with the College of Education and the broader university community. We look forward to building on this relationship in the years ahead through our shared commitment to our students, our communities, and advancing education and research in service to the people of �鶹��ý.”

Ensuring a smooth transition

Under the agreement, UH will continue providing land and facilities without charging standard rental fees. However, ULS will transition to covering its direct operating expenses, including utilities, internet and custodial services, which the university previously subsidized.

To ensure a smooth transition, these cost-recovery payments will be phased in over three years: 50% in the first year, 75% in the second year and 100% in the third year. The Lab School will also assume responsibility for day-to-day maintenance and capital repairs for its buildings, granting the institution greater operational flexibility while clearly defining institutional responsibilities.

Expanded collaboration

Looking forward, UH Mānoa‘s College of Education and the University Laboratory School plan to expand their academic collaboration through a separate agreement.

The agreement followed collaborative discussions involving Jeremiah, his leadership team and the school’s governing board.

“This is exactly the kind of outcome we strive for—one where we work through complex issues together, find common ground and create solutions that position both institutions for long-term success,” Hensel added.

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel presented a comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) strategy to the (BOR) on July 16 at UH Mānoa, detailing a bold vision to accelerate AI training and adoption across the university system and serve the needs of �鶹��ý.

Likening the technology to “the new electricity,” the presentation emphasized the urgency to prepare �鶹��ý’s workforce for a rapidly shifting landscape. Hensel highlighted industry statistics, noting that one-third of entry-level jobs now require AI skills, and 80% of hiring managers consider AI competency a priority when evaluating candidates.

“Because this is here, it is going to radically transform what we do, and the failure to talk about it as an institution of higher education means that we will constantly be reacting rather than setting the course for our students, our faculty, staff and the state,” said Hensel during her presentation at the BOR meeting.

To meet this demand, the university has adopted a holistic approach to AI that spans governance, curriculum, workforce development, research and operations. A cornerstone of this approach is the newly adopted UH AI Policy, which establishes guidelines for the “responsible and ethical use of AI technologies,” promoting transparency, accountability and fairness across the university community. To implement this vision, UH has formed a dedicated AI Task Force focused on Hawaiian culture and values, ethics and governance, and curriculum and pedagogy.

More than 100 AI-infused courses

The university currently boasts more than 100 new or AI-infused courses and has launched new AI certificates, concentrations and programs at UH Hilo, UH Mānoa, UH Maui College, UH West Oʻahu and Honolulu Community College. Furthermore, nearly 100 instructors from across the system have been supported in developing and incorporating AI-related assignments into their classes.

The university is also prioritizing hands-on experiential learning. Initiatives such as EL3vate provide intense faculty professional development to weave AI and design thinking into course curricula, while AI Innovation@RISE offers students systemwide opportunities to work directly with industry partners on real-world tech needs in �鶹��ý.

Beyond the 10 campus system, UH is providing resources to the public. The is a free, open-access, 12-chapter foundational course offering training and applied learning for communities across the islands. UH is collaborating with tech companies such as Google and Microsoft, and is proposed as a regional anchor to adapt AI curriculum co-created with MIT. All of these tools, community practices and resources are centralized on the .

“It’s going to happen whether we embrace it or not, and the important thing is that we decide how we deploy it and use it through a position of information and knowledge, and not reacting to the winds of change,” said Hensel during her presentation.

Darsh Davé, Darren Lerner and the �鶹��ý Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office have been selected as the University of �鶹��ý‘s nominees for the Governor’s Awards for Distinguished State Service. The award honors the state’s executive branch employees and managers who exemplify the highest caliber of public service and dedication to serving the people of �鶹��ý. UH President Wendy Hensel made the announcement during the (BOR) meeting on July 16 at UH Mānoa.

“We never give enough appreciation for the hardworking faculty and staff around the university, and so it really is a pleasure for me to identify a few employees and a few groups whose dedication and achievements have earned well deserved recognition,” Hensel said at the BOR meeting.

Employee of the Year: Darsh Davé

Darsh Davé, human resources manager at , was named UH‘s 2026 Employee of the Year. He was recognized as a trusted resource who helps the campus navigate complex personnel matters while supporting effective operations. Davé has improved service delivery by addressing long-standing process challenges, streamlining faculty payment workflows and strengthening coordination across departments.

He was also recognized for his leadership during a high-risk campus incident, helping de-escalate the situation so a major campus event could continue safely. Through mentoring colleagues, supporting workforce initiatives and promoting professional development, Davé has made lasting contributions to the college community.

Manager of the Year: Darren Lerner

Darren Lerner, director of , consortium director of the and interim associate dean for research in UH Mānoa‘s , was named the university’s 2026 Manager of the Year. He was recognized for transformational leadership that has strengthened �鶹��ý Sea Grant and expanded its impact across the university and the state.

Lerner has overseen more than $100 million in extramurally funded projects focused on improving the resilience of �鶹��ý‘s and the Pacific’s coastal ecosystems and communities. His leadership through periods of uncertainty has allowed the program to continue growing while supporting research, education and community partnerships that address critical environmental challenges.

Team of the Year: �鶹��ý Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office

The �鶹��ý Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office Team was recognized as UH‘s 2026 Team of the Year. The team was honored for advancing the university’s goal of becoming a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning through strategic planning and the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation framework. By building strong relationships across campuses and breaking down institutional silos, the team has helped strengthen Indigenous-centered practices throughout the university.

Its efforts have contributed to major accomplishments, including securing a $68.5-million National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration award and advancing the “Aloha Begins with Us” movement, helping foster a more connected, resilient and culturally grounded university community.

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel provided an update to the UH Board of Regents (BOR) on recent leadership transitions in her report at the July 16 monthly meeting.

The updates included changes at �鶹��ý Community College, UH Mānoa and the VP of Academic Strategy. Hensel discussed next steps for the University Laboratory School partnership, the interim adoption of the Time, Place and Manner policy, and the modernization of student housing, and highlighted several bright spots across the UH campuses, including the demolition of Hale Noelani to make way for modern student housing, massive research milestones at the UH Cancer Center, and a $5-million investment in UH Athletics.

She also recognized UH recipients of the 2026 Governor’s Awards for Distinguished State Service, including the Employee of the Year, Manager of the Year, and Team of the Year.

• �鶹��ý CC chancellor transition ()
• UH Mānoa leadership and VP of Academic Strategy updates ()
• University Lab School agreement ()
• Time, Place and Manner policy update ()
• Hale Noelani demolition ()
• Hoʻōla Early Phase Clinical Research Center and NIH funding ()
• NIL funding commitments for UH Athletics ()
• Governor’s Awards ()

When disaster struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026, the (PDC)—a University of �鶹��ý applied science center—was ready. Two massive earthquakes, measuring M7.2 and M7.5, devastated the region, triggering the largest international urban search and rescue (USAR) mobilization in the region’s history. As 67 international search and rescue teams converged, the PDC’s technology became the critical lifeline for coordinating their efforts as an authoritative data provider.

The response began within minutes. Six minutes after the earthquakes, DisasterAWARE had issued early warnings for the quakes and tsunami hazard, along with estimated impacts and needs. By 11 minutes, PDC Smart Alerts had reached more than 3.5 million DisasterAWARE users worldwide. And within 30 minutes, direct operational support to responders had activated, with continuous updates flowing thereafter.

Real-time assessments

PDC’s initial estimates placed 13.5 million people within the shaking zone, including a vulnerable population of 4.46 million—many of whom live in informal hillside settlements exposed to destruction from quakes and rain-triggered landslides. With so many vulnerable people inside the shaking zone, and critical infrastructure badly destroyed, impeding USAR and humanitarian relief access, ground-level situational awareness and advanced logistics planning became critical to the mission.

With PDC analysts directly embedded into mission operations, real-time impact assessments flowed quickly to decision makers. The Center also developed 96-hour needs forecasting and infrastructure updates that guided responders through severed roads and collapsed buildings. DisasterAWARE acted as the central nervous system, integrating data from dozens of organizations—including the U.N. and the World Food Programme—into a single, unified view.

“We don’t just provide data. We provide clarity in the middle of chaos,” said PDC Deputy Executive Director Erin Hughey. “When 2,500 responders from around the world arrived with different systems, we bridged the interoperability gaps. By creating a shared operational picture, we ensured that aid and rescue teams were deployed to the areas that needed them most, turning complex data into decisive, lifesaving action.”

Anticipating needs

The center’s role proved vital. From identifying functional airports and seaports for relief cargo to flagging emerging demands in health systems and transitional sheltering, the PDC’s forward-looking analytics allowed planners to anticipate needs before they became crises.

The mission is not finished. PDC platforms remain the operational backbone for tracking evolving impacts, coordinating relief and supporting evidence-based decisions as Venezuela’s recovery continues.

—By Chani Goering

This week’s UH News Image of the Week is from UH ����ԴDz�’s Shea McNulty, an undergraduate studying psychology and art.

McNulty shared, “This is a film picture (35mm) taken during a photoshoot for a local small business. I study film photography at UH, and had an amazing opportunity to showcase my skills in a beautiful place.”

Previous Images
Noni lab
May Day, 1952
Weekend weather
Monk seals
Chainsaw ice
All Images of the Week

Send us your image!

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.

—Wild ginger.

More ʻŌlelo of the Week

“Nui nā ʻawapuhi i koʻu māla (There is plenty of ginger in my garden).”

—Haʻaheo, he haumāna ʻōlelo �鶹��ý (Hawaiian language student), Ke Kulanui Kaiāulu o Honolulu (Honolulu Community College)

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