Seasiders

Sumanth Kola, a junior from India majoring in computer science, shares how his upbringing in a Hindu family and his journey into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reflect resilience, commitment, and a desire to make a difference.

Meet Alohalani Housman, an associate professor in Hawaiian Studies and dean for the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts. Originally from New Jersey, she has been teaching at BYUH since 2015. Learn more about her life, pursuits, and interests.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is happy to welcome Dr. Daniel DeMartini as a new assistant professor in the Faculty of Sciences, beginning in the Fall 2024 Semester. Known for his enthusiasm for marine biology and a deep connection to Hawaii’s unique ecosystems, Dr. DeMartini brings over a decade of research and teaching experience to the university.

Braden Watt, a junior from Utah majoring in economics and marketing, shares how the values of the gospel, hard work, and community engagement have helped him create a mindset that embraces Heavenly Father’s gift of agency.

Keonalani Hansen, a junior from Texas majoring in English, shares how her love of language, heritage, and the Savior Jesus Christ paved her way to including BYU–Hawaii in her path to success.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is delighted to welcome Dr. Michael Morris as an assistant professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts beginning in the Fall 2024 Semester. As the new head of the Theatre Program, Dr. Morris brings immense experience in theatre, business, and nonprofit leadership, aligning perfectly with BYU–Hawaii’s mission to foster academic and spiritual growth.

Kade Nilson, a senior from Canada majoring in marine biology, shares how his connection to the gospel, his passion for marine biology, and his hopes for the future culminate in his education here in BYU–Hawaii.

Meet Jeffrey Maloney, an assistant professor in the EIL/TESOL program from Fairfield, Ohio. He has been teaching at BYUH since 2021. Learn more about his life, pursuits, and interests.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is pleased to welcome Dr. Lorie Davis as the new associate professor in the Faculty of Education & Social Work, beginning in the Fall 2024 Semester. With a passion for integrating gospel principles into learning, Dr. Davis is poised to make a significant impact on both students and the academic community at BYU–Hawaii.

On August 29, new students of Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) attended the Laie Hawaii Temple as part of their New Student Orientation (NSO). This spiritually significant event allowed incoming students of the Fall 2024 Semester to participate in sacred ordinances with the guidance of the New Student Experience (NSE) Team and the ordinance workers of the temple. The event was made possible through a collaboration between the BYUH NSE Team and the Laie Hawaii Temple presidency, inviting students to begin their academic journey by strengthening their connection to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is thrilled to welcome Dr. Norman Thompson as a new assistant professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, beginning in the Fall 2024 Semester. With roots in Laie and a steadfast commitment to cultural studies, Dr. Thompson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role.

BYU–Hawaii graphic design students Lan Xi Lin and Hanna Rogers showcased their research at the renowned TypeCon 2024 conference, held in Portland, Oregon, from July 24 to 27. Accompanied by Professor Robert McConnell, an associate professor in the Faculty of Arts & Letters, the students presented their work on typographic culture, to an international audience.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is pleased to welcome Jenifer McGill as the new visiting entrepreneurship assistant professor in the Faculty of Business & Government, starting in the Fall 2024 Semester. With a background in entrepreneurial management and a deep commitment to service, McGill brings experience and enthusiasm to the BYU–Hawaii campus.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is happy to welcome Dr. Brent Cowley as a new assistant professor in the Communication, Media, and Culture Program, starting in the Fall 2024 Semester. Previously teaching as a visiting assistant professor, Dr. Cowley's new role will allow him to contribute to the program in new ways and further the knowledge of BYU–Hawaii students in all types of media and cultures.

Emmaline Ferguson, a junior from Fiji majoring in business management with an emphasis in human resources, shares how family, responsibility, and a desire to “breathe life” into her faith have enabled her to fulfill the promises made by BYU–Hawaii to its students.

Brigham Young University–Hawaii is pleased to announce the addition of Joshua Christensen as a new assistant professor in the Psychology Program, starting in the Fall 2024 semester. A distinguished alumnus and accomplished researcher, Christensen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Seasider community, promising to enrich the academic and personal growth of BYUH students.

Esprit Saucier, an associate professor in marine biology from Houston, Texas, shares about her life, pursuits, and interests.

Sisilia Kaufusi, a senior majoring in social work from Laie, Hawaii, shares how her desire to help people and create connections with others has profoundly shaped her academic and spiritual growth through her faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ.