Lively entertainment, ‘ono food, and fun festivities will all be part of Pueo Pilina 2023, a celebration of University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu students that will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at the UH West O‘ahu Campus Courtyard.

Pueo Pilina is a collaboration of UH West O‘ahu Chartered Student Organizations — the Associated Students of the University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu (ASUHWO), Campus Center Board, Student Activity Fee Board, Student Media Board, and The Hoot — together with the UH West O‘ahu Student Life Center.

Organizers aim to present a meaningful event for all university community members to celebrate their connection to one another, to students, and to this ‘āina, Honouliuli.

Lindsey Millerd, ASUHWO president, said UH West O‘ahu students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to stop by the event, which in past years was known as Fall Fest (held during the fall semester) and West Fest (held during the spring semester).

“It’s going to be a great way to socialize and meet great people and organizations on campus,” Miller said. “Since the pandemic, our campus hasn’t had many large-scale events, but this is the year we’re bringing it back!”

Millerd noted that “pilina” means “relationship” or “connection.”

“And that’s our goal, really,” she said. “We hope to bring our campus community together, celebrate our students, and show pride for our school.”

Throughout Pueo Pilina, the Campus Courtyard — the quad area by the library and buildings C, D, and E — will become energized with live musical performances from students and a vibrant number by the “Shimmies and Smiles” belly dance class.

The event will showcase student organizations and a student market, featuring student-owned businesses promoting their products or services. Students are also welcome to free food, including manapua, pork hash, lumpia, and a variety of sweets.

“All students need to do to get the food is fill out a ‘passport’ by going around to the different tables at the event,” Millerd said. “There will be games out to play on your own, and other group activities that emcees will lead in front of the crowds. We’ll also be giving out free school merch, some as giveaways to everyone there and some as extras as prizes for winners in our games.”

Organizers are still seeking students to sign up for the following by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 19:

• Student organizations and student market. Sign up here.
• Student talent to perform. Sign up here.
• Student emcee or event host/announcer. Sign up here.

“Stop by and hang out for a fun afternoon,” Millerd said. “You all deserve it!”

For more information about Pueo Pilina, email gowest@hawaii.edu.