Kristina Leialoha Kaleimamahu, a Hawaiʻi Community College student, has faced challenges to earning a degree in higher education. However, her determination has helped to propel her in her journey, recently earning a place as a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar. Kaleimamahu will receive a $1,000 scholarship as part of her prize.

After 35 years working in higher education in Hawaiʻi — across five campuses statewide — Susan Kazama is calling Hawai‘i Island home again. Kazama, born and raised in Hilo, returned in July 2023 to serve as Hawai‘i Community College’s interim chancellor. One year later, she takes the helm officially, effective July 19, 2024. Among Kazama’s top priorities for the college are workforce development, student success, indigenous values, sustainability, and campus safety.