Announcements

Brigham Young University–Hawaii and Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions completed the campus-wide renewable energy system. The system's annual electricity production is estimated to meet 39% of the university's energy needs, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and dependence on the grid.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Academic Vice President Isaiah Walker announced two leadership changes in Academics this week: Dr. Alohalani Housman as the dean of the Faculty of Culture, Language, & Performing Arts and Dr. Benjamin R. Jordan as the dean of the Faculty of Sciences. Both appointments are effective August 28.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Academic Vice President Isaiah Walker announced the appointment of Dr. Nathaniel M. Stephens as the dean of the Faculty of Business & Government. Stephens is replacing Cary Countryman who has left BYU–Hawaii and accepted a position at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the information technology field.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii will implement a 3% tuition increase for the 2021-2022 academic year beginning with the Fall 2021 Semester. This is an increase of $89 on the per semester rate going from $2,945 to $3,034.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii announced its spring 2022 devotional and lecture speakers. This semester, speakers include members of the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU–Hawaii employees, and other invited guests. Weekly campus devotionals focus on spiritual learning by fostering greater faith and discipleship in Jesus Christ.

Beginning in 2023, Brigham Young University–Hawaii will hold two commencement ceremonies each year.

President John S.K. Kauwe III, following approval from the BYU–Hawaii Board of Trustees, announced the appointment of Laura Moana Tevaga as Advancement Vice President.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii will host a building dedication ceremony on Saturday, January 15, at 10 am, to celebrate the recent completion of its new Science Building.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii announced its winter 2022 devotional and lecture speakers. This semester, speakers include members of the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU–Hawaii employees, and other invited guests. Weekly campus devotionals focus on spiritual learning by fostering greater faith and discipleship in Jesus Christ.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is making changes to student financial aid to better align with the mission of the university. These adjustments will take effect beginning with the Fall 2022 Semester.

On November 11, 2021, over 200 people gathered for a special centennial celebration at BYU–Hawaii to commemorate Elder David O. McKay’s inspiring vision during his visit to the island on February 7, 1921. Posters displaying early photographs recounted the story of those early years and President McKay’s prophetic vision that “God has had His hand over this entire valley and from this school [BYU–Hawaii] … will go men and women whose influence will be felt for good towards the establishment of peace internationally.” Attendees viewed early images that included the flag raising ceremony at the elementary school in 1921, where President McKay observed 127 children from various cultures and backgrounds (e.g. Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipinos, Chinese, and others) coming together as one. He later wrote, “That ceremony brought tears to my eyes. Truly the melting pot. … [and] an example in this little place of the purposes of our Father in Heaven to unite all people by the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

BYU–Hawaii and BYU-Pathway Worldwide are excited to announce a new partnership that will expand educational options for students in the Pacific Islands, Asia, and the Philippines.

Effective immediately, students who have completed one of BYU-Pathway Worldwide’s online programs and desire to earn a degree on campus at BYU–Hawaii will be given priority consideration for admission to BYU–Hawaii as well as its IWORK scholarship program. Capacity is limited.

John S.K. Kauwe III was officially inaugurated as the eleventh president of Brigham Young University–Hawaii by Elder Jeffry R. Holland, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and member of the Board of Trustees of Brigham Young University–Hawaii, on Tuesday, October 19. Elder Holland presided over the meeting conducted by Elder Clark G. Gilbert of the Seventy. Other speakers included President Kauwe and representatives of faculty, alumni, and students.

President John S.K. Kauwe III announced the appointment of Kevin Schlag as the Operations Vice President following approval from the BYU–Hawaii Board of Trustees. Schlag will be replacing Cory Higgins, who will be retiring after many years of service at multiple educational institutions. Schlag's appointment is effective November 1, 2021.

Dr. John Sai Keong Kauwe III will be installed as Brigham Young University–Hawaii's eleventh president during a devotional assembly on Tuesday, October 19, at 10 am, in the Cannon Activities Center.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Academic Vice President Isaiah Walker announced the appointment of Dr. Cary Countryman as the dean of the Faculty of Business & Government. Countryman is replacing Brian Houghton who has recently completed his term in the position.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii will add the COVID-19 vaccination to its student health clearance requirements beginning Fall 2021 Semester. This requirement applies to all students and follows current university policies governing student immunizations, including a process by which exemptions for medical or religious reasons may be requested.    

President John S.K. Kauwe III announced the appointment of Dr. Isaiah Walker as the Academic Vice President following approval from the BYU–Hawaii Board of Trustees. Walker will be replacing John Bell, who will be retiring after many years of service in the Church Educational System. Walker’s appointment is effective July 1, 2021.