Division of Student Affairs (DSA)

Divisional Magazine

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Spring 2023

Spring 2023 Magazine (PDF )

Interim Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Message

At the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, within our Student Affairs division, our overarching vision is to cultivate a dynamic and supportive learning environment where the strength of the community harmonizes with the flourishing of each individual. We firmly believe in the transformative power of education and recognize the pivotal role that both the collective community and the unique needs of every student play in shaping their educational experience. Here, we understand that education extends far beyond the classroom, and as such, we are dedicated to fostering students’ holistic learning experiences. By nurturing their intellectual, emotional, and social well-being, we empower our students to not only excel academically but also to lead lives of purpose and distinction.

Within our Student Affairs division, we are honored to be surrounded by a remarkable team of professionals who exemplify a diverse range of talents and expertise. Each day, they go above and beyond in their commitment to our students, serving as mentors, advocates, and catalysts for positive change. It is their unwavering dedication that serves as the driving force behind the exceptional educational journey we provide at UH Hilo. This commitment and dedication have not gone unnoticed. We take great pride in the fact that our division has been recognized as a "Promising Place to Work in Student Affairs" by esteemed organizations such as Diverse: Issues in Higher Education and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). This prestigious distinction, bestowed upon us in three out of the past five years, is a testament to the unwavering passion and unwavering dedication exhibited by our team.

As we move forward, we express deep gratitude for the breadth and depth of knowledge our colleagues bring to their work, as well as their relentless pursuit of our shared mission. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for our students remains steadfast. We strive to provide the necessary support systems and resources to nurture their personal growth, facilitate their learning journeys, and guide them in crafting lives filled with meaning and distinction. This inaugural magazine is another attempt at showcasing our students, our staff, and the work that we do to transform the UH Hilo community.

Strategic Planning

The DSA strategic planning process kicked off on January 31, 2023 with a town hall meeting. There, Interim VCSA Dr. Chris Holland provided an overview of his 90-day “look, listen, and learn” tour of DSA. While this was not exhaustive and there was more feedback to glean, this feedback allowed DSA to begin to explore common themes, aligned with the following mindset:

  • To support students—by providing co-curricular opportunities for them to consider who they are, what they are trying to accomplish, and empowering them to do so in and out of the classroom
  • To create an inclusive and collaborative student-centered division focused on care and development of staff in our support of students
  • To promote and encourage wellbeing in an environment that facilitates a holistic developmental approach to work/study/life
  • To align with the institution’s plan, outlining how DSA will contribute to institutional goals

    Student Affairs comprises many different units and people working in these units and since practitioners are not a monolith population, there are many ideas, backgrounds, and experiences within. The beauty, of course, behind this thought is that we can all learn from each other if we are open to do so to create a common ground and unified plan that represents the best of who we are, what we can do, and how we can do it together. Because of this, it was important to bring in a facilitator to help us start to consider the many voices and thoughts that comprise the divisional make up. Thus, Donovan Nichols, a national speaker on work/life balance, joined us for a series of sessions to help us brainstorm and create a litany of ideas to work from. After reviewing the various feedback loops and notes from the kickoff session, the following themes/ideas emerged and are currently being worked on within various working groups. Many thanks to those who are working on this plan–together we will create a plan that helps us address immediate needs and concerns while preparing our work with students so they can be successful.

Basic Needs and Support

Uʻi Amantiad

Hale Lako, the well supplied house, offers the following completely free to UH Hilo students: pantry foods, clothes, hygiene products, fresh produce, frozen foods, compost to grow foods, textbooks, novels, electronics, and more. Hale Lako also has a section where students can find food for their pets; as well as washer access if needed. This resource is operated by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resource Management. Uʻi Amantiad, the Student Health and Wellness Program Educator and Prevention Coordinator, networks with campus partners on and off campus to obtain resources for the well supplied house. Vibrant Hawaiʻi, a community based leadership organization, recently donated vouchers for Sodexo meals to for 500 students who recently visited Hale Lako. Uʻi does her absolute best to be flexible, responsive, and does not let opportunities fall through the cracks. Her dedication shows by wanting to improve the program with students best interest,

“Are we doing enough? Is it just free stuff for them? Is it enough for them to focus on school – get through the day – I'm hoping that just being there is enough."

Uʻi shared that students experience food insecurity and feel the need to store a stash, she assures them they can come back as many times as they need. Although the resources are free, it's important the students take only what they need for about a week -- since they want everyone to have an opportunity. However, it's unfortunate that some students don't take advantage of the opportunity in fear of being seen as "poor." Uʻi's hope is that once more students learn about the free resource and utilize it, it will become normalized and resources won't sit. Uʻi hopes that the more students begin to utilize Hale Lako as it's available to them, especially as many students just don't know about this resource. Moving forward, Uʻi would love to implement some sort of curriculum around basic needs using a referral process. Other resources such as MyPlate.Org can help students understand what they need as far as nutritional categories. Understanding the importance of MyPlate may encourage students to pick up fruits, veggies, and protein -- instead of only proteins. As many hands make light work, they are always looking for more volunteers (students, faculty, staff) to run Hale Lako. Uʻi is also open to collaborations, so if anyone is interested -- feel free to schedule a conversation! Hale Lako is open Tuesdays from 3-6 p.m. in portable (PB) 22, room 101.

"One thing I’ve learned from working at the University is that word of mouth goes a long way with our students. I don’t know if that's just a Hilo thing in general, but when we ask a new student how they heard of us it's usually a friend, roommate, or advisor. Tell your friends!"
--Uʻi Amantiad

Campus Recreation

As Campus Recreation is DSA, the ultimate goal is to help students with whatever they need. Whenever students present a question or issue, they are always directed to who can best help. Whether that be Admissions, Financial Aid, or Advising; students are never left without direction. Campus Recreation strives to provide a safe space for students to figure it out, or talk through issues in hopes of resolving their concerns. In the worst case scenario, if a student hasn't found what they need, Lucille Walsh at Campus Recreation would be glad to walk the student to where they need to go. Lucille works towards creating programs that create an environment for students to thrive, while feeling safe and supported. Although different tasks Lucille works on can take weeks to develop, she prioritizes students.

Part of Lucille’s role is to accommodate mistakes so students learn through them. Mistakes are important as they build problem-solving skills. Through various interactions, timely feedback caters to students learning in those moments. Everyone should have the opportunity to try again and if that fails -- having the ability to gain perspective and change approaches can be beneficial in the long run. Students are not perfect, and Lucille doesn't expect that. Given that Campus Recreation is not focused on "academic success," it's important to note that it's not just a gym. Campus Recreation has many resources for all types of students such as: outdoor adventures, first aid & CPR classes, scuba classes, Zumba, sunrise yoga and of course the gym and pool. Classes offered help students meet others with similar interests and create a sense of purpose. The next time your visit be sure to check out the huge bulletin board as there are always new posts of free trips and adventures. Campus Recreation is a community center for students to gain access to connections, build relationships, and develop their personal self.

"You can have the best resource available, an amazing program, or opportunity, but the most important is to create an environment that students feel safe and welcome. Make sure students know you’re there to help them without judgement or stigma." --Lucille Kapikoʻokalani Walsh

International Student Services

Sinarleen only applied to UH Hilo because a group of students, from her home Kosrae, were applying. Sinarleen quickly found that same group of students, and herself, flying over since the admissions process went through so fast. When Sinarleen got here she thought UH Hilo was a massive campus. Though, through her time here Sinarleen quickly realized the campus was not too big nor too small, and found it fairly easy to navigate. In her complete honesty she revealed that UH Hilo was her last choice! However, since being at UH Hilo she admits it has been the best experience and she can't imagine it any other way. Sinarleen recognizes the beauty in the Aloha lifestyle and to see the cultural differences. After all these years, she's grateful for the friends from all of the different countries she's created here. Sinarleen appreciates how easily the community comes together to help each other. UH Hilo has many opportunities and she’s honored to be apart of a diverse university. As an international student, she gets to see what it means as diversity provide opportunity for students to share an appreciate many cultures.

James “Jim” P. Mellon
James “Jim” P. Mellon

The International Student Services program changed Sofia's life entirely! When Sofia first came to UH Hilo in 2017 she quickly noticed that Hawaiʻi is very different than her home in Paraguay. Since Paraguay is "land-locked," being on an island opened her eyes and perspective on what the world has to offer. As a Marine Science major, she decided that an education on an "ocean-locked" land to be ideal. Hawaiʻi never crossed her mind, before hearing about the ISS program she didn't even know where our island was. The only thing she knew was that her fascination with learning about the ocean started in high school, and stuck. She spent her first year learning English through ESL classes. During her education at UH Hilo, COVID-19 sent her back home in 2020 for 5 months. Sofia was able to appreciate the opportunity to spend time with her family yet was eager to continuing her education. Sofia graduated Spring '22 with her Bachelors degree in Marine Science. Post graduation she started her Masters degree of Marine Science through DCBES working with Dr. John Burns Coral Reef Research. Sofia would highly recommend ISS to anyone around the world as it opens outlook and caters to personal growth.

Sinarleen and Sofia shared their appreciation towards Jim Mellon as a trusted faculty they could rely on through the International Student Services program. Sofia remembers the help, support, and campus resources shared by Jim, and how she started her journey with excitement, enthusiasm, and confidence to succeed. Sinarleen expressed her appreciation as Jim gave his time and went out of his way to help. Sinarleen noticed that he does not just do his job, but goes out of his way to understand where each student is coming from and makes sure they are enjoying their time.

"Failure is an imperfect word, because the moment it becomes learning it's no longer failure. I try to facilitate student growth, development, and leadership skills by meeting students where they are and encouraging them to take risks and get involved in various opportunities, programs, and activities. More often than not, students will rise to the occasion and shine."
--Jim Mellon

Assistant Director, Campus Center

Campus Center builds leaders to better serve their communities, wherever that may be, during their time at UH Hilo and beyond. As a math (BA) and computer science (BS) major graduate, Matt Kalahiki sees the importance of working efficiently and being resilient. As the supervisor of Lava Landing attendants, Campus Center building managers, administrative assistants, and Chartered Student Organization (CSO) office managers, Matt has implemented the "I do, you do, we do" method when training his student workers. As all students are not created equal, Matt created in-depth written and video education trainings for those he supervises which they can access to review at any time, for a refresher on processes and systems in efforts to better Campus Center functions. Matt also advises UHHSA and SAC, from the start of their planning process, to the actual day of event. Matt is there to make sure the plans worked out while assessing the outcome and reflecting for bettering next events. Student Support and wellbeing is a high priority for Matt in Campus Center. When meeting with student workers, Matt discusses the students' expectations and does personal check-ins of their overall wellbeing aside from just work. Matt acts as a support in any need; from food insecurity (referring them to Hale Lako), to discussing home issues, Matt will guide with understanding how to fill out a SNAP Application! Something Matt helps his student workers with is allowing them to attend employment career workshop days coordinated by Marcy in student employment. Regardless if they are scheduled to work that day, Matt will find coverage for his student workers to attend if they choose to take advantage and grow professionally while focusing on being better than they are now.

Admissions Transfer Counselor

There’s an idea that admitting students into the University is an automatic process. Sarah Juran in Admissions reminds us that it’s not automatic. Prior to being a transfer counselor for Admissions, Sarah had no idea of the processes and procedures of admitting students. The amount of intensive steps and requirements get overlooked by those not familiar with the processes. By promoting, encouraging, and supporting events; Admissions can be seen as the front door of the University. Sarah has a deep appreciation for the effort put into outreach to benefit UH Hilo and its students. By working with local high school and community college students on navigating different pathways, Sarah tailors presentations on the benefits of staying on the Big Island versus traveling away for school. Being reminded that there are more first generation students attending college these days, Sarah sees the drive in these students to cater and support their dreams of attending higher education. The amount of effort that goes into broadening outreach to students has changed in recent years. UH Hilo campus is student centered with approachable faculty and staff ready to make connections and expanding networks for students. As Sarah has met with many students, she is extremely happy when a prior student comes back to thank her for her effort and support in their education. When students remember who helped them, those connections last a lifetime.

Fall 2023

Fall 2023 magazine (PDF )

Our Three Goals

  1. Empowering Student Success and Fostering a Sense of Belonging
  2. Empowering Student Thriving and Elevating Student Wellbeing and Support
  3. Empowering Operational Excellence and Staff Wellbeing Following the finalization of our Strategic Plan, each unit within our division has set its own distinct goals designed to align with our overarching objectives for the benefit of our students, faculty, and staff. This ongoing process, while not yet fully concluded, remains a dynamic work in progress. Our relentless commitment is to continuously strive towards the achievement of these goals.

Empowering Student Success and Fostering a Sense of Belonging

Our vision at UH Hilo is to educate and empower students for meaningful contributions to society. We emphasize early engagement, lasting support, and fostering an inclusive campus community.

Cultivating Meaningful Connections

Admissions is in the process of rethinking their social media posting strategies, and looking at ways that they can better convey a story to why UH Hilo is the best place for prospective students. Admissions has conducted a comprehensive review of their events to ensure that they align with our intended outcomes. This evaluation encompasses event timing and the integration of additional touchpoints to better cater to prospective students' support needs. Simultaneously, they are streamlining the admissions processes to offer a more user-friendly experience, consolidating access points, and minimizing the number of application questions to remove potential entry barriers.

Seamless Transition to Success

Connections are not just about making friends; they're also a gateway to resources on campus and in our community that can significantly impact our students’ success. Our campus is a treasure trove of academic support, career services, counseling, and more. These resources are not just available; they're actively promoted and accessible, ensuring that students have the tools they need to excel academically, personally, and professionally.

Inclusive Spaces and Campus Unity

One of the most powerful avenues for students to connect and find their safe place on campus is through our campus centers’ chartered student organizations. These organizations encompass a wide array of interests, from government and leadership to activities, publications, and broadcasting. Joining a student organization is not just about involvement; it's about nurturing our student passions, developing leadership skills, and their finding their own sense of campus unity.

Connections and Vulcan Pride

We prioritize fostering meaningful connections and instilling a sense of campus pride right from the very start of a student's journey. Orientation is not just about getting acclimated to campus; it's a holistic experience designed to provide students with a strong connection to UH Hilo and the wealth of resources available to ensure their success. During the "Week of Welcome," students are immersed in a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie. It's a time when they're not just new faces on campus but integral members of our UH Hilo family. From orientation sessions and campus tours to engaging social events, this week is all about forging connections - with peers, faculty, staff, and the broader campus community.

Fundamentally, we are making significant strides in empowering student success and nurturing their sense of belonging. This is the moment when they come to understand that they are integral members of a diverse, engaged, and supportive community. We firmly believe that, through the establishment of these connections and the provision of a diverse array of engagement opportunities, we are not merely preparing students for academic success; we are actively contributing to their holistic thriving during their time at UH Hilo and beyond.

Empowering Student Thriving and Elevating Student Wellbeing and Support

Our goal is to nurture excellence in every student, emphasizing academic and personal growth within a compassionate environment. We're dedicated to providing tailored support services and resources to meet diverse student needs, ensuring each student thrives and reaches their full potential.

Comprehensive Wellbeing Strategy

Campus Recreation aims to promote a seamless cross-collaboration among various support services, establishing a comprehensive and holistic approach to student care. This collaborative effort is an essential component of our comprehensive wellbeing strategy, allowing services to work together synergistically, ensuring students' needs are met comprehensively, and providing them with well-rounded support that encompasses all aspects of their wellbeing.

Culturally Relevant Mental Wellbeing Initiatives

Counseling Services are committed to a multi-faceted approach. They’re organizing regular outreach events to engage students both on-campus and virtually, and create specialized events to connect with various student groups, fostering campus partnerships. These initiatives emphasize wellness and student success. Moreover, Counseling Services actively embrace diversity on campus, particularly among underrepresented and minority student populations. They have a longstanding commitment to challenging biases in mental health care and improving attitudes towards diversity through evidence-based practices, ultimately increasing access to their services. Additionally, they collaborate with the university community to ensure a comprehensive institutional response to emergencies, student crises, critical incidents, and student behavior.

Campus-Wide Wellbeing Education

Intercultural Competence is a vital part of our on campus community at UH Hilo. The student body at UH Hilo has been voted “The Most Diverse” population according to U.S. News & World Report‘s analysis for a second year in a row. It is essential that our staff focus on educating students about their own identities as well as others. This overarching goal encompasses the entirety of the University Housing program, with the intention of extending its reach beyond the confines of the University Housing unit. In pursuit of this goal, and in alignment with the DSA divisional strategic plan, the Community Living unit will engage in collaborative efforts with various campus units that provide student and academic programs, particularly in the three areas focused on achieving the educational learning goals.

Graduation and Beyond

NSE is working on empowering student thriving by continuing to upgrade our surveys to gain more insight on some of the challenges our incoming and outgoing students may have. We are looking at how we can be more purposeful and intentional when asking questions on surveys and on how to resolve some of those concerns. NSE is looking at ways we can help prepare our students for graduation and beyond. They are thinking about workshop ideas that can better serve our students on exchange both here and away. NSE would also like to showcase our alumni so current students can make connections between exchange and graduation.

In essence, our commitment is to empower students to succeed academically and personally in a compassionate, inclusive, and culturally sensitive environment, both during their time at our institution and beyond graduation.

Empowering Operational Excellence and Staff Wellbeing

We're on a journey toward greatness that goes beyond academics, infusing our division with innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. This approach fosters transparency, accountability, and professional growth, empowering our staff and propelling the Division of Student Affairs to new levels of efficiency and excellence.

Strategic Growth and Development

ISS is actively engaged in a comprehensive review of its programs and services, focusing on quantitative and qualitative measures, such as retention rates and student feedback. This process aims to enhance student engagement, satisfaction, and overall success. Moreover, ISS is committed to fostering a culture of evidence-based continuous improvement and aligning its efforts with the UH System and UH Hilo goals. The Director also prioritizes ongoing professional development to stay updated on innovative approaches and best practices in international student services. This approach ensures ISS's contribution to institutional learning and success.

Efficiency and Innovation Enhancement

Upward Bound is actively reevaluating its programs, incorporating valuable student feedback, and reallocating resources to enhance engagement and satisfaction. This includes funding for staff to attend TRIO conferences and training sessions, fostering stronger collaboration with various UH Hilo departments to further enrich its initiatives.

Data-Driven Progress and Improvement{#data}

SSSP’s plans on completing a comprehensive review of their existing programs, placing a strong emphasis on the invaluable feedback provided by our students. As SSSP meticulously assess this input, they’re dedicated to cultivate a dynamic and student-centric environment, one that not only meets but anticipates the needs and aspirations of our student body. These initiatives are more than mere enhancements; they are a testament to our commitment to continually evolve and enhance the educational experience, ensuring that our students thrive and flourish throughout their academic journey.

Culture of Empowerment and Holistic Wellbeing

To achieve this goal, University Housing and Community Living needs to reevaluate staff roles and responsibilities, create attainable department goals, and enhance communication. By clarifying roles and promoting open dialogue, they aim to build a culture of trust and collaboration, ensuring staff feel valued and listened to as we work toward positive changes within the unit.

Our quest for excellence extends beyond academics, driving us to infuse our division with innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to improvement. This approach not only cultivates transparency, accountability, and professional growth but also empowers our staff, propelling the Division of Student Affairs to unprecedented levels of efficiency and excellence.