Alumni Spotlight: Elise Mitchell
From Laie to Canberra
When Elise Mitchell (née Lesuma) first arrived at BYU–Hawaii, she didn’t know the long-term impact it would have on her worldview, career, and personal identity. Born and raised in Utah, but now living in Canberra, Australia, Mitchell juggles motherhood, a communications role at the Australian National University (ANU), and active service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—all while living the mission she embraced at BYU–Hawaii.
A Digital Pioneer at BYU–Hawaii
Mitchell was part of the pioneer generation of BYU–Hawaii student employees who helped launch the university's modern marketing and social media efforts. Working as the university’s first-ever social media manager, she played a central role in developing student voice, brand strategy, and outreach on digital platforms. But while those experiences taught her valuable communications skills, she says the most enduring lesson was how to work in a diverse, multicultural environment.
"Australia is very diverse," Mitchell said. "I get to connect and work alongside people across the nation. Having the appreciation and ability to learn from and work with people of various backgrounds is a subtle, yet important skill I learned and mastered at BYU–Hawaii."
Building a Life at BYU–Hawaii
After graduating, Mitchell moved with her husband, Isaiah, and children to Australia, where she now works in a hybrid communications role at ANU, supporting climate research and outreach. Her day-to-day varies: some days she works 9-to-5 at the office, other days she works from home—a blessing as a mom of young children.
"Being able to step away from my desktop to help get lunch ready, or help my son go down for a nap, or go on a walk to the park with my toddler during lunch is such a blessing," she said. "Motherhood is extremely busy. I thought I stayed busy as a young adult, but I quickly realized that raising kids is not for the faint of heart. But my boys bring me so much joy."
Climate Research Through Communications
In her current role at ANU, Mitchell provides communications support for major environmental and climate adaptation initiatives. "I help produce the end-user materials, publish them on our website, and promote them through social media and our newsletter. We’ve seen really good uptake in webinar attendees and our mailing list. It feels good to see the important work our researchers are doing being seen by people and decision-makers."
Finding Belonging Through the Gospel
Alongside her work, Mitchell is deeply involved in her local ward. Having moved three times within a year, she’s found that the gospel network extends wherever she goes. "It’s scary at times to feel like you won’t belong, but with each move we’ve felt at home in the new wards. People are so kind and reach out just when we need."
She credits BYU–Hawaii for shaping her perspective on church service. "As a young adult in a married-student ward, I had the best experiences serving in callings. It taught me that no matter how busy I was, serving the Lord and His children was the best use of my time. The blessings I received in return far outweighed any effort I had put forth."
Living the mission of BYU–Hawaii now means promoting goodness in quiet but intentional ways. "The world we live in is growing scarier every day. I hope and pray my subtle examples are promoting good. Initiating positive and uplifting conversations is probably my main effort."
When asked how her definition of success has changed, Mitchell reflected on the shift from status to significance. "I used to think success was based on monetary gain and status. But now I feel so successful just to be in a job that I love, that’s growing my skills, promoting good in the world, and allows me to be present with my family."
To students currently at BYU–Hawaii, Mitchell offers advice based on faith and perspective: "Start today. You will only achieve the things you believe you can achieve. Believe you can achieve greatness. And don’t discredit the stepping stones. Accept each step as a way forward. Welcome growth."
Even across the ocean, Mitchell continues to feel the impact of BYU–Hawaii in her life. "It’s fun being different. I learned to appreciate that from BYUH. People recognize my American accent instantly, and it makes me feel like I stand out in a good way. I can find connections to people through my Pacific roots, and that’s really neat."
Elise Mitchell’s life is a testament to the BYU–Hawaii mission: building leaders of character and integrity who influence the world for good. Whether supporting climate research, raising a family, or serving in the Church, she does so with humility, joy, and purpose.