"From this school will go men (and women) whose influence will be felt for good toward the establishment of peace internationally. . . the world needs men (and women) who cannot be bought or sold, who scorn to violate truth, genuine gold. That is what this school is going to produce. More than that, they will be leaders, not only on this island but everywhere. All the world is hungering for them."
President David O. McKay, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "Groundbreaking & Dedication of CCH/BYU–Hawaii," February 12, 1955.
Recently Published
A Degree of Determination
Dr. Norman “T-man” Thompson III graduated from BYU–Hawaii with a degree in English before earning his master's and PhD. Today, he serves as an Assistant Professor of Pacific Studies. A devoted husband and father of five, Dr. Thompson's journey has been shaped by faith, persistence, and a second chance that changed everything, to give his students the kind of classroom he once needed himself.
Tyler Pisciotta
Tyler Pisciotta is a BYU–Hawaii alumnus born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. He graduated in the class of 2019 with a major in Biology and minors in History and Spanish. He and his wife, Lauren, are now settled in Nevada, where an exciting chapter is just beginning.
Verna Tukuafu: After Everything, Still Standing
Verna Tukuafu graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii in 1999 with a degree in business management. Today, she serves as Area Manager for BYU–Pathway Worldwide across the Pacific region. A devoted mother of three, Verna's journey has been shaped by faith, resilience, and an unwavering belief that education can transform lives. Through seasons of joy and heartbreak, she has learned to trust God's hand in her life and to help others discover their own divine potential.
Val Aquino Okimoto: Courage in the Council Chambers
Val Aquino Okimoto graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii in 1999 with a degree in accounting. Today, the devoted single mother of two daughters balances family, faith, and public service while representing District VIII on the Honolulu City Council. From ten years as a special education teacher to serving in the Hawaii House of Representatives, Okimoto’s journey reflects her courage, conviction, and spirit.
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