Finau Hafoka graduated from BYU–Hawaii in 1987 with a degree in social work. Originally from Tonga, he joined the Church as a teenager in New Zealand–and was disowned for it. After serving as a school counselor, bishop, stake president, mission president, and Laie Hawaii Temple president, Hafoka now serves as a chaplain at BYUH. His story is one of sacrifice, faith, and a family made whole.

Chesser Matauaiga Arapata Cowan graduated from BYU–Hawaii in 2021 with a degree in intercultural peacebuilding. Born and raised in Bridge Pa on the North Island of Aotearoa, he now shares his culture everywhere from Disney’s Moana, where he performed alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, to classrooms back home. Cowan’s story is one of heritage, healing, and humility.

Temwake Kuraotio is a BYU–Hawaii alumnus from Abemama, Kiribati, now back home with big plans for his nation. He graduated cum laude in Spring 2026 with a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management. Today, he's working with the Ministry of Line and Phoenix Islands Development on a bold mission to turn Kiritimati Island into Kiribati's next development hub.