As we approach the end of fall semester 2002, I would like to extend my warm aloha to our dedicated university ‘ohana who work passionately to help our students to fulfill their dreams and to make UH Hilo the best institution we aspire to be. Our good efforts have resulted in major achievements that we can celebrate and be proud of.

Over the years we have sustained a steady growth in enrollment, and this fall we achieved a milestone by exceeding 3,000 students! This would not have been possible without the collaborative effort of all of you who model the academic excellence and caring students yearn for in their educational pursuits. What transpires in the classroom and outside the classroom directly impacts students’ choices for selecting an institution and choosing to complete their degree at an institution. University of Hawai‘i at Hilo can be proud of both the image we project as well as the services we deliver to students. Some say, “We finally look like a ‘real’ university!”

Another milestone this fall was opening the doors of our $19 million dollar office and classroom complex. In addition to the needed space this structure, beautifully graces the entrance to our University. And of course, the community as well as our university ohana rejoiced in the completion of the long-awaited paved theatre parking lot with the beautiful tree-lined entry way.

Another area of growth is the increase in the number of grants awarded and associated grant dollars we received this year (STEM - Science Technology Engineering Math, Title III - “Strengthening Native Hawaiian Serving Institution,” MBRS - Minority Biomedical Research Support program, and others.) Space limitations do not allow me to describe these and other projects in detail at this time.

The National Science Foundation staff visited our campus and had productive exchanges with many of you. I hope we can help you achieve your research, training, and service goals through the multitude of federal grant opportunities. Thank you for your involvement to bring in external resources to help our students and the community.

The end of the year often signals the closing of one chapter and the opening of another. On behalf of the entire University, I extend our mahalo and best wishes to our honored retirees who have contributed so much to so many of us:

• Shirley Kawamoto, Secretary to the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Office of Student Affairs
• Junko Nowaki, Librarian, Head Public Services, Library
• Jerry Johnson, Professor of Psychology, Social Sciences Division, College of Arts & Sciences
• Sharon Peterson, Head Volleyball Coach, Office of Intercollegiate Athletics

Collectively, they represent over 115 years of contributions to UH Hilo. I salute them and wish them happiness in their future. We will miss them, and trust they will visit and continue to be part of our ‘ohana and help us in the future.

Again, thank you everyone for your dedication and commitment to the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season of joy and good health, and look forward to continuing our work together in 2003.

Aloha,

Rose Tseng
Chancellor
UH Hilo