The University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu hosted 120 business and cyber/IT professionals and students at the Kūkulu Networking Event — held on April 21 in the Campus Center multi-purpose room — providing a low-key, talk-story opportunity for students to ask real questions to real professionals.
The annual event, which was first held in 2023, was open to all UH West O‘ahu students and co-organized by UH West O‘ahu’s Dr. Katie Landgraf, Associate Professor in Accounting; Dr. Leslie Crow, Assistant Professor of General Business & Hospitality; and Susan Yogi, Educational Specialist with the Business and Cybersecurity Division.
“The purpose of the event was to bring students together with professionals to network and gain connections in the local market,” Landgraf said.
Kūkulu welcomed 44 professionals from various industries such as accounting, insurance, cybersecurity, data analytics, marketing, finance, management, hospitality, and IT, as well as 76 students, including seven from Maui and Hawai‘i Island.
Students who attended Kūkulu enjoyed food and live music while meeting local professionals and other UH West O‘ahu students, exploring career opportunities, and receiving support for personal and professional growth.
Among the students who attended the Kūkulu Networking Event was James Smith, who is majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance, and pursuing a certificate in Risk Management and Insurance. Smith was the main speaker at the event.
“I really wanted to convey that Kūkulu’s about making connections and giving students opportunities to ask questions to professionals,” Smith said. … “ Students shouldn’t be shy and they should be open to talking to professionals and asking them questions. That’s all you really have to do to build those connections.”
Professionals who attended the event shared positive messages about the student participants in an event feedback form:
- “UH West O‘ahu has such a great and diverse group of students.”
- “I would hire anyone in the room! All great students and potential employees.”
- “Great opportunity to speak with students, share career options, and learn about their pursuits.“
- “Enjoyed getting to connect with students and chat about their career interests.”
- “Wow! What a great group of students. Can’t wait to stay in touch with them.”
Students shared their takeaways, as well:
- “The chosen professionals were extremely engaging and helpful. Got a few leads, too!”
- “My biggest takeaway is that even if you are unsure what specific pathway you want to go in, getting experience in many branches will help you determine what works for you.”
- “There are so many options out there. Even the professionals had to experience different careers before finding the one they love.”
- “Absolutely amazing! I got to meet a pleasant amount of professionals and ended up discovering some job opportunities.”
To see photos from the event, visit the Kūkulu Networking Event 2026 album on Flickr.
To see highlights from the event, watch this video, courtesy of Street Cinema.