The Department of Biology at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s departmental and college-level student awards. These exceptional students have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, dedication to their research, and a clear passion for the biological sciences.

Please join us in congratulating this year's winners:

CNHS Student Excellence Award: Christian Lee As a junior and STEM Honors student interning in Dr. Jon Awaya's lab, Christian is recognized for having the highest GPA in his cohort, his inquisitive nature, and his consistent effort and dedication.

Outstanding Graduating Student (B.A. in Biology): Melanie Hiu Melanie earned the highest GPA among graduating B.A. students and is celebrated as a top performer who successfully balanced her rigorous academics and lab work with her commitments as a student-athlete in basketball.

Outstanding Graduating Senior (Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation): Samson David Known for his exceptional work ethic and dedication to learning, Samson has consistently been a top performer in his classes and will be continuing his academic journey in the TCBES graduate program.

Outstanding Graduating Senior (Cell and Molecular Biology): Kadden Kobayashi Kadden is highly regarded by faculty as an outstanding student who consistently leads his classes in grades, contributes heavily to discussions, and has spent several years gaining valuable INBRE research experience in Dr. Li Tao's lab.

Outstanding Graduating Senior (Cell and Molecular Biology): Cameron Loxley Sharing the CMB award, Cameron is recognized for her stellar academic performance, extensive internship and volunteer experience, and her sustained excellence that earned her this nomination last year leading up to her graduation this spring.

We are incredibly proud of our award-winning students and all of our graduating seniors. Congratulations to Christian, Melanie, Samson, Kadden, and Cameron! We wish you the absolute best in your future endeavors!