UH Hilo launches talk story series focusing on kuleana and community

The University Hawai‘i at Hilo launched a talk story series focusing on kuleana (responsibility) and community.

These events will be hosted weekly to bring students, faculty, staff, and community members for meaningful conversations in a safe and welcoming environment. The series features guest speakers from various fields, sharing their insights on topics that matter to the community.

All talks are held from noon to 1 p.m. in the UH Hilo Kilohana Academic Success Center, located on the first floor of Mo‘okini Library.

The first talk story will be held on Sept. 13 with UH Hilo psychology professor Charmaine Higa titled: “Small Shoulders, Big Worries: Understanding Childhood Anxiety in a Post-Pandemic World.”

According to the university, the Kuleana and Community Talk Story series is designed to foster connections, spark ideas, and inspire collaboration between campus and community members, who are invited to join the UH Hilo ʻohana and contribute to the University’s mission of demonstrating kuleana and building a strong, connected community.

The program also offers students an opportunity to network, explore potential internship opportunities, and meet local mentors who can help shape their academic and professional futures. Faculty and staff will have the chance to engage with community leaders, opening doors for future collaborations.

“This series is about more than just conversation—it’s about building relationships and expanding our understanding of the world,” said Carolina Lam from the Center for Global Education and Exchange. “Through these talks, we hope to create a community that learns from one another and encourages curiosity about life beyond our island’s boundaries.”

In addition to Higa, the series will feature the following guest speakers:

• Sept. 20: Randy Kurohara, Community First
• Sept. 27: Clifton Sankofa – “Reclaiming Health Through Food”
• Oct. 4: Kaleo Pilago, Mauna Kea Stewardship
• Oct. 11: Beverly Tese, Prizma Hawai`i LGBTQ Center
• Oct. 18: Carla Kuo, Hawai`i Island Chamber of Commerce
• Oct. 25: Brandee Menino, Hope Services
• Nov. 1: UH Regent Mike Miyahira, business owner
• Nov. 8: Julie Mitchell, Kuikahi Mediation Center
• Nov. 15: Sue Lee Loy, Hawai`i County Council Member

For more information, email cglam@hawaii.edu or call 808-932-7488.