University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu announced its awards for the 2024-2025 academic year. The Education Division was well represented in the Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching and the Lecturer Excellence in Teaching categories.
Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching: Joy Mahiko
As announced in UH News, the Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching is awarded by the Board of Regents as tribute to faculty members who exhibit an extraordinary level of subject mastery and scholarship, teaching effectiveness and creativity, and personal values that benefit students.
Dr. Joy Mahiko is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Education – Special Education. She teaches courses in Special Education and oversees the program for Education majors to add a field in special education. Her scholarship focuses on inclusivity, quality teacher preparation, and rural special education. She advocates for inclusion and fair wages, especially for people with disabilities. Her other interests include serving minority at-risk youth who are at the greatest risk for substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and criminal activity.
One nominator commended Mahiko’s “exceptional ability to inspire, engage, and empower UH West O‘ahu students, fostering both academic success and personal growth.”
Lecturer Excellence in Teaching: Kathryn Nakahara
The Lecturer Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes the dedication and commitment of our part-time lecturer personnel. This award was established at UH West O‘ahu in 2019.
Kathryn “Katie” Nakahara is an instructor at UH West O‘ahu, dedicated to fostering growth in the next generation of teachers. She teaches both courses of math for elementary teachers and supports the education program through field supervision, mentoring, and coaching. She holds an EdD from Chaminade University and a Master of Education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Her background includes teaching in Hawai‘i’s elementary, middle, and secondary schools, along with university-level instruction and field supervision. Katie finds it fulfilling to contribute to teacher education and hopes that her efforts help empower both current and future educators.
“Kathryn should receive the excellent lecturer teaching award for her exceptional skill in making mathematical concepts accessible, fostering a love for math, and inspiring curiosity of UHWO students,” her nominee stated.