Brigham Young University–Hawaii Academic Vice President Kelly Haws announced two new academic leadership appointments, effective immediately.
Dr. ʻInoke Hafoka will become dean of the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, succeeding Alohalani Housman, and Aaron Shumway will become dean of the Faculty of Business & Government, succeeding Nate Stephens.
"I am grateful for the dedication and leadership these two individuals bring to their new roles," Haws said. "Mahalo to Alohalani and Nate for their years of service, and it is an honor to work with ʻInoke and Aaron as they step into this new chapter."
Dr. ʻInoke Hafoka
Dr. ‘Inoke Hafoka currently serves as an associate professor and program lead of the Pacific Studies Program at BYU–Hawaii.
He earned a doctoral degree in social science and comparative education from the University of California, Los Angeles, a master's degree in education from the University of Utah and a bachelor's degree in sociology from Brigham Young University.
Hafoka's scholarship centers on diaspora, identity, migration and education in Pacific communities, with publications on Tongan identity, Indigenous research methods and Pacific Islander experiences in higher education.
"As the son of Tongan immigrants and a scholar of the Pacific, he brings a meaningful perspective and deep connection to the university's mission and the communities it serves," Haws said. "He is well respected by his colleagues and is a thoughtful and capable leader."
Aaron Shumway
Professor Aaron Shumway most recently served as an associate professor in the Faculty of Religious Education at BYU–Hawaii and previously as director of religious education. He has also been teaching business law in the Faculty of Business & Government.
Before joining the university full time, Shumway spent 12 years as an attorney and partner at Ashford & Wriston LLLP in Honolulu, where he helped co-found the firm's intellectual property and technology practice group.
Shumway holds a Juris Doctor from Washington and Lee University School of Law and a bachelor's degree in English from BYU–Hawaii, graduating summa cum laude as valedictorian of the class.
"A BYU–Hawaii alumnus who was raised in Laie, Aaron has a deep love for the university and its mission, along with extensive experience working with students, faculty and communities throughout the Pacific and Asia," Haws said. "He is a trusted leader, recognized for his sound judgment and thoughtful leadership, and is both kind and clear in his work with others."
About Brigham Young University–Hawaii
Brigham Young University–Hawaii is a private university in Laie, Hawaii, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The mission of BYU–Hawaii is to prepare disciples of Jesus Christ who will live and lead in Oceania and the Asian Rim.