Featured Articles

The Polynesian Cultural Center hired 1994 BYU–Hawaii organizational behavior alumnus Mark Ellis in early 2024 to fill the new position as director of voyaging experiences. Later that summer he spent 29 days captaining BYUH’s 57-foot iconic wa’a kaulua or double-hulled sailing canoe, the Iosepa, on its first open-ocean journey in the past eight years.

Ling (Elaine) Wong, born in Hong Kong, graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) in December 2023 with a degree in TESOL education and a minor in psychology. Choosing the international track for her licensing, she returned to Hong Kong to complete her internship. She has since become a full-time English teacher at Queen Elizabeth School Old Students’ Association Secondary School.

Mark Louis Anthony Eyo’s journey from a student at Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) to chapter president of the BYUH Philippines Alumni Chapter demonstrates the life-changing impact a university has on his life and the power of legacy and giving back.

Tahitian artist Eriki Marchand is an alumnus of BYU–Hawaii and he also worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center from 1988–93, returned to Laie for several months in mid-2024 to design and install a new mixed-media mural in the Courtyard Marriott Laie North.

William “Bill” Hampton Kawaiola Davis II’s journey at Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH) is a testament to the power a college campus can have on one's life.

Fifty years ago, on July 1, 1974, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints changed the name of Church College of Hawaii to Brigham Young University–Hawaii.

CCH alumnus Cy Bridges, a master of Hawaiian culture, genealogy, and arts, dedicated 45 years to the Polynesian Cultural Center. He is recognized for his contributions to hula, traditional chants, and cultural preservation.

(The late) Arthur Keawe Enos and Mildred “Millie” Ah Hee Enos enrolled at Church College of Hawaii in its inaugural 1955 class. After earning their respective associate degrees, then going on to BYU in Provo for bachelor’s degrees and teaching in California for a number of years, they returned to Laie to work, raise their family, and serve.

Eleanor Kaloi Dalton: CCH’s first yearbook editor

Benjamin Lim has been appointed as the new Alumni Association President for Alumni Relations. This new role will have him train other chapter leaders throughout the BYU–Hawaii Alumni network.

Charles Wai Hing Goo — a former BYU—Hawaii registrar, director of admissions, and associate dean of students — passed away peacefully at home on January 3, 2024, after a life rich in service to the university, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his family, former missionaries, Chinese students, and the community.

In November 2023, Peter and Joyce Chan traveled through Asia, fostering BYU–Hawaii alumni chapters, connecting graduates, and building opportunities for future students, strengthening relationships across Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China.

After graduating from BYU–Hawaii, Elder Yoon Hwan Choi's faith-led journey shaped his career, leadership, and service in the Church, including roles as a bishop, stake president, and mission president.

Delsa Moe, Vice President of cultural presentations at the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) and an alumna of Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH), shares a life story deeply entwined with her time as a student and employee. Her journey begins in her homeland in the islands of Samoa and traces a path to becoming an esteemed figure in both the BYU–Hawaii and PCC communities.

The late Jon Tikivanotau M. Jonassen was a Cook Islands diplomat, BYU-Hawaii professor, and cultural advocate who inspired students through his leadership, education, and passion for Pacific Island culture.