Welcome to the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo's English department. Our English program reflects the diversity of our student population and our location in the Pacific through a well-rounded, culturally balanced curriculum. Courses in composition, literature, film, and creative writing provide students with solid foundations in all aspects of the discipline, preparing graduates for a variety of career opportunities.

Did You Know?

More Did You Know...

The University

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is characterized as a comprehensive, diverse, regional university. Scholarship and research are an important part of faculty work and student engagement, but the primary focus is on providing high-quality baccalaureate and postgraduate education.

5th Hawaiʻi International Conference on English Language and Literature Studies (HICELLS 2026)

HICELLS 2026 Banner

The Department of English at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is pleased to announce the 5th Hawaiʻi International Conference on English Language and Literature Studies (HICELLS 2026) which will be held at the Univrsity of Hawaii at Hilo on March 13 - 14, 2026. This year's conference theme is "Teaching and Learning English Language and Literature in a Changing World: Global Trends and Transformative Practices," aims to explore the emerging global trends in English language teaching and literary studies, including curriculum innovation, assessment practices, digital integration, and multilingual education.

HICELLS 2026 offers a platform for educators, researchers, students, and scholars in the fields of English language and literature studies to share their insights, experiences, and research findings. This international conference also provides an opportunity to engage all participants in discussions on global trends and practices in the teaching and learning of English language and literature.

Join us in Hawaii for an enriching event that promises to advance and deepen our understanding on the global landscape in English language and literary education.

Student Experiences in Our Programs

Outside of the classroom students have the opportunity to participate in field-related internships and work positions through the Research, Internship, Applied Learning, and Employment Opportunities and the SECE system , as well as the opportunity to publish writing and art in UH Hilo's student-run publications.

Our Faculty and Staff

We are your academic ʻohana. We teach the vast majority of courses, using best practices from education research.

Pamela Bond
Pamela Bond
Instructor
Leanne Day
Leanne Day
Chair and Associate Professor, English
Francis Dumanig
Francis Dumanig
Chair, Languages Department; Associate Professor, English; Program Coordinator, TESOL Certificate, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Patsy Y. Iwasaki
Patsy Y. Iwasaki
Associate Professor, English
Sarah Juran
Sarah Juran
Lecturer, English
William Lawrenz
William Lawrenz
Lecturer, English
Seri I. Luangphinith
Seri I. Luangphinith
Professor of English; Accreditation Liaison Officer (WSCUC)
Justina Mattos
Justina Mattos
Chair, Performing Arts; Associate Professor, Drama
Kirsten Mollegaard
Kirsten Mollegaard
Professor, English
Mark T. Panek
Mark T. Panek
Professor, English
Suzanne Romaine
Suzanne Romaine
Affiliate Professor, English
Lauri R. Sagle
Lauri R. Sagle
Instructor, English; Director of Composition

Contact Us!

Please contact us for more information, a site visit, or a Zoom meeting.