PUHI — Kaua‘i Community College held its customary ceremony at the campus ahu (also known as Ke Ahu a Hokulei) on Monday, Jan. 9, the first day of the 2023 spring semester.
The Hawaiian studies ahu is an Indigenous space on campus where students, faculty and community gathered to set their intentions for the semester by offering oli (chant), mele (song), pule (prayer) and ho‘okupu (gifts).
According to the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa website, “ahu are often the focal points of ceremonies honoring Hawaiian spirituality and ancestral spirits.”
Newly appointed Interim Chancellor Margaret Sanchez said she is excited to start the year strong by engaging with community members, students, faculty and staff.
“We want to engage and collaborate with our community,” Sanchez said. “My priority is to ultimately increase enrollment and enhance the courses and programs we currently have. KCC is the hub for post-secondary learning on Kaua‘i, and is crucial to an enriched local workforce.”
The campus emphasizes providing safe learning spaces for students. Kau Hale, a newly renovated study space for all students, has opened next to Hawaiian studies. Hale Malama, which provides wraparound services to students, is dedicated to the health, safety, overall well-being and quality of life for all students at KCC.
Hale Malama’s mission is to help address food insecurity, houselessness, child care support, college affordability, emergency aid, and other basic needs, such as transportation, technology, medical and mental health.
The KCC food and goods pantry, emergency aid and mental health counseling are available to all students.
The campus also hosted Club Day during the first week of school. More than 10 student clubs were represented along with services for students.
University of Hawai‘i Vice President for Community Colleges Erika Lacro appointed Sanchez to serve as interim chancellor for KCC beginning Jan. 3. Previously, Sanchez served as vice chancellor for student affairs (VCSA). Lacro selected Thomas No‘eau Keopuhiwa to serve as interim VCSA. KCC also welcomed other new faculty and staff in 2023.
