Alumni Spotlight
HPU alumnus Steven Sasaki, a recent partner at New York Life in Honolulu, returned to campus this fall for an inspiring conversation with members of Delta Mu Delta, the University’s business honor society.
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Saydee Pojas (MA ʻ13), Chief Operating Officer at INPEACE, Institute for Native Pacific Education and Culture, first learned of the nonprofit organization when her first child was a toddler in 2009. Her son enrolled in the INPEACE Keiki Steps Program. Seeing her son benefit from Keiki Steps, Pojas soon took a staff position in the program, working as an ʻohana advocate responsible for developing and delivering a parent curriculum for the parent participation preschool program.
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HPU business alum Christopher Gooch has launched his second Hearthly burger restaurant in the quaint seaside town of Sea Bright, New Jersey. The grand opening on July 25, 2024, was a big hit, drawing a crowd eager for organic burgers, fries, and sandwiches. Gooch describes his restaurants as “really good food, served quickly,” aiming to open a third location in 2025 and ultimately expanding to 10 restaurants in the next five years. His vision includes the dream to open a Hearthly at HPU’s Aloha Tower Marketplace.
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Previous Spotlights
Discover how HPU alumna Caitlyn Ogbaekwe transformed her life from aspiring vocalist to marine science lecturer. After a childhood in Pittsburgh's performing arts scene, Caitlyn's unexpected interest in oceanography led her to HPU, where she thrived through the concurrent registration program, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees. Now a dedicated lecturer and mentor, Caitlyn shares her passion for marine science with students aboard the University's research vessel, The Kaholo. Click to read about her inspiring journey, her role in shaping the future of marine science, and how she's making waves at HPU.
HPU alumna Rebecca Teresia has made waves as an associate producer for the highly anticipated documentary Shaka: A Story of Aloha, set for release in winter 2024. This captivating film, directed by Alexander Bocchieri and produced by Steve Sue, delves into the rich history and cultural significance of the iconic shaka gesture. Learn how this symbol of aloha is transforming communities and making history, including its recent adoption as Hawaiʻi’s official state gesture. Dive into Rebecca’s inspiring journey from Finland to Hollywood and see how her HPU education fueled her passion for film and cultural storytelling. Don't miss out—read the full article now and join the movement!
Yukiko’s journey doesn't end with her graduation! Her expertise and dedication have led her to roles such as advising Japan's Ministry of Education and returning to HPU as a guest speaker earlier this year. She credits HPU with giving her the confidence and skills needed for her career, emphasizing the value of small class sizes and the interconnectedness of TESOL with other fields. Read the full article to learn more about her path and the impactful role of HPU in shaping her career.
Follow Sugai's journey from her ROTC days to her recent honor of leading the Alumni Pledge at the 2024 spring commencement ceremony. Discover her commitment to serving her community in Honolulu and honoring her ancestors' legacy.
HPU alumna Sarah McFarland ‘11 has been awarded the prestigious Beacon Award in 2024 from Ellis Island Honors Society in New York City.
Last fall, Matt Smyth (BSBA ‘02, MBA ‘03), president of consulting firm WinWin, Inc. based in Las Vegas, conducted guest lectures in three HPU marketing classes and spoke with members of HPU’s Delta Mu Delta business honor society. Smyth’s discussion with Delta Mu Delta members and HPU business faculty shined a light on the significance of LinkedIn and the power of networking for college students.