Announcements

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.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Student Life Vice President Jonathan Kala Kau announced the appointment of Alison Whiting as the director of campus life. This is a new position that will oversee the newly envisioned Hoʻokahua department, which has broad stewardship for the Student Leadership & Service, Seasider Sports & Activities, Residential Life, and the Office of Honor departments.

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 Academic Vice President John Bell announced the appointment of Dr. Patricia Patrick as the dean of the Faculty of Arts & Letters.

Elder Timothy J. Dyches, General Authority Seventy, is scheduled to be the speaker during Brigham Young University–Hawaii's online commencement presentation. The presentation is scheduled for Saturday, April 17, at 9:30 am HST.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Student Life Vice President Jonathan Kala Kau announced the appointment of T. James Faustino as the new dean of students. James has served most recently as the director for the Hoʻokele Department for Admissions, Career, & Alumni Services. In conjunction with James's appointment as dean of students, the divisions, services, and personnel under the Hoʻokele Department will transition from Academics to Student Life. James will continue to oversee these areas as part of his responsibilities as dean of students.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii Academic Vice President John Bell announced two leadership changes in Academics today. Yifen Beus has accepted an appointment to serve as the associate academic vice president for faculty replacing David Bybee who will be leading and coordinating campus efforts in sustainability. "We are grateful to Yifen and David for their diligent and long-standing service to the campus. Please join us in expressing your appreciation and welcoming them to their new assignments," said Bell.

BYU–Hawaii announced Tuesday its winter 2021 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.

Elder Paul V. Johnson, General Authority Seventy and Commissioner of the Church Educational System, is scheduled to be the speaker during Brigham Young University–Hawaii's online commencement presentation. The presentation will celebrate and recognize candidates for graduation following the Fall 2020 Semester and is scheduled for Friday, December 11, at 9:30, am HST. The event will available at byuh.edu/live-stream, on the BYU–Hawaii YouTube channel, and BYU–Hawaii Facebook page.