Education

Researchers at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa have made an exciting discovery: a virus found in the ocean called FloV-SA2 carries the genetic instructions for making part of a ribosome—a crucial component in cells that turns genetic information into proteins. This is the first time a virus that infects eukaryotic organisms (such as plants, animals, and fungi) has been found to have this capability, according to UH researchers.

A total of $60,000 will be awarded to qualified applicants.

Panel discussions will be aimed at collaboration to develop a process to build up and support the next generation of teachers. This year’s summit will also feature national board certified teacher Carla Warren, senior partner with the National Center for Grow Your Own, who will share information about nationwide trends in teacher cultivation and lessons for Hawaiʻi.

Before we get too far into 2025 and the headlines start rolling in about the people, research and work at the 10 campuses of the statewide University of Hawai‘i system, let’s review the top headlines from last year. University of Hawai‘i News posted nearly 1,500 stories in a very eventful 2024.

The newsite posted nearly 1,500 stories this year, many of which involved people with connection to the university system making headlines, including Miss Aloha Hula winners, a Waiākea High Schoo grad, an auditioner on ‘The Voice’ and someone who once had a date with Marcia Brady.

Chondria tumulosa earned the reputation for being a ‘nuisance alga’ because of its mat-forming behavior, ability to spread rapidly and unknown origin, which have posed significant challenges for reef conservation.

Kanaka ʻōiwi (Native Hawaiian) Puʻuwai Tollefson-Kelly is deeply rooted in values that honor her culture and foster meaningful connections. Her passion for education and service will be in the spotlight as she gives her address as student speaker Saturday during the commencement ceremony at Vulcan Gymnasium in Hilo.

Students continue to learn from the land while Connections Public Charter School applies for a special use permit to build a permanent building on its agricultural campus in Kaʻūmana.

Join Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and partners again in January 2025 to learn about volcanic activity in Hawaiʻi but also think about submitting a piece for the new art and poetry contest.

The Big Island is “such a dynamic environment that I think we take for granted because most places on Earth don’t have those dramatic changes,” said Steve Lundblad, geology professor at UH-Hilo.

The new shaka curriculum comes on the heels of “Shaka, A Story of Aloha,” winning the Best Documentary Award in the Hawai’i International Film Festival.

Two students were awarded $500 for their essays about their volunteer service and connecting it with their specific communities.

Virtual and in-person workshops are available for students in need of assistance with college planning and scholarship applications in November.

Fall 2024 enrollment at Hawaiʻi Community College in Hilo and its Pālamanui campus in Kona on the Big Island increased 1% from fall 2023. The 4-year University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo saw a 4% decrease in enrollment this fall, but Chancellor Bonnie Irwin said there was a 25% surge in students returning after pausing their studies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The astronomy center in Hilo is diving in to the world of Hawaiʻi’s sharks and rays. It’s also hosting a pumpking deocrating contest and showing ‘Expedition Reef,’ an exclusive Halloween planetarium experience. Check out all of the Halloween haunts for Oct. 29 now!

ʻAle Lau Loa Youth Ambassador Program celebrates second year with 8 students from several Big Island high schools participating in a cultural exchange with Penticton Indian Band of British Columbia, Canada.

There are plenty of other events and activities happening around the Big Island that can keep you and the family busy. Check out out top 10 things to do on the Big Island now!

Participants engaged in learning about the crucial efforts to safeguard endangered species, with presentations on conservation efforts and the role of birds in maintaining the balance of Hawaiʻi’s delicate ecosystem.

The Board of Regentsʻ unanimous choice to take over for outgoing president David Lassner said despite not being from Hawaiʻi, she would continue to uplift indigenous values of the University of Hawaiʻi.

The university’s Board of Regents voted unanimously Thursday to appoint the current executive vice chancellor and university provost at the City University of New York to succeed David Lassner, who will retire at the end of this year after serving as UH president for more than 11 years.