Joint Advisory Group Biographies
Michael Cawdery
Michael Cawdery is a Professor and Coordinator of the Associate in Science in Teaching with the Teacher Education. With a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, his work focuses on the intersection of educational policy, pedagogy, and institutional change. He specializes in designing inclusive academic programs that address the systemic and historical challenges facing diverse and marginalized communities.
Michael supports statewide teacher preparation pathways, ensuring alignment with national standards and regional workforce needs. He has served as Principal Investigator for several initiatives, including workforce development grants from Perkins, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the Governor’s office. These efforts have focused on improving teacher recruitment and retention.
His leadership experience includes serving on the Board of Directors for the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) and as an accreditation reviewer for the ACCJC. Dr. Cawdery’s professional history spans from classroom experience to system-level governance, including service as Chair of the Faculty Senate, UH Community Colleges Faculty, and the 10-Campus Council of Faculty Senate Chairs.
He is dedicated to contextualized learning, social justice, online learning, and collaborative educational partnerships, and has been honored with several system-wide teaching and leadership awards and fellowships.
Kealani Cook
Dr. Kealani Cook is an Associate Professor in the Humanities Department at the University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu, where he teaches Hawaiian and Pacific history. Originally from Waimea, Hawaiʻi, he now lives on Oʻahu in the Moku of ʻEwa. His dissertation and his book, Return to Kahiki, focused on Native Hawaiian historical connections to other Pacific Island peoples. He has also published articles on the role of Islander missionaries in the destruction of kiʻi/tiki, postmillennialist thought in early Hawaiian Christianity, and the rhetorical efforts to develop democracy against the wishes of the oligarchy in the first territorial legislature. His current work focuses on histories of non-violent civil disobedience in Oceania.
Chayden Gabriel
Chayden Gabriel is a first-year college student pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has been passionate about leadership since high school and continues to develop that passion at Leeward Community College, where he serves as a Senator. Chayden is drawn to leadership roles that challenge him to grow academically and professionally. Beyond college, he actively seeks opportunities to strengthen the skills necessary for future leadership positions. He is excited to continue learning, contributing, and shaping a future where he can lead with purpose and engineer a lasting impact.
Rigo Gomez
Rigo Gomez is a Junior at the University of Hawai‘i West O‘ahu, majoring in Public Administration. He lives in Makakilo and has been blessed to call O‘ahu home for the past 12 years. Rigo is a proud father of three, husband, U.S. Army Veteran of over two decades, and first-generation college student.
On campus, Rigo serves as the ASUH Student Body President, Co-Chair of the UH System Student Caucus, and President of the UHWO Student Veterans Organization. He also supports students as the Interim Program Manager for the Veteran Center of Excellence. Beyond campus, Rigo remains engaged in the community, including volunteering as a U14 girls soccer coach (AYSO Region 769) and participating in multiple Community service organizations.
Rigo’s desire is to address students’ concerns and create tangible, school-wide improvements through effective collaboration and equitable representation. What he loves most about UH West O‘ahu is its diverse, resilient, and purpose-driven student body. Rigo firmly believes that it’s a privilege to be part of the Joint Advisory Group and looks forward to giving a voice to all students.
Hōkū Kwan
He wahi leo aloha kēia iā ʻoukou. ʻO au nō ʻo Dr. Hōkū Kwan a he kupa wau no ka ʻāina ʻo Nānākuli ma ka mokupuni ʻo Oʻahu. He limahana wau ma ke Kula Nui ʻo Hawaiʻi ma Honouliuli no ʻumi kūmālua mau makahiki. Noʻu, he kuleana koʻu i ke ola pono o ke kaiāulu ma Hawaiʻi, ʻoiai nā ke kaiāulu i hānai a pūlama hoʻi iaʻu. Eia hoʻi kahi ʻikepili e koe ana iaʻu iho:
As a wahine and Kanaka scholar, empowering students and uplifting communities guides Hōkū’s work in higher education. She serves as the Director of Student Excellence and Achievement, where Hoku leads initiatives that uplift diverse and underrepresented students through programs such as Kawena ʻUla (Early Academic Pathways), Kīkaha (Freshman Pathways), Wailau Ola (Transfer Pathways), Nā Pua Noʻeau (ʻOhana Engagement), and Hana Hou Au (Returning Adults). This work emphasizes holistic, culturally relevant programs that foster belonging, leadership, and academic achievement. Throughout Hōkū’s career, she has led grant-funded programs, supervised teams, built community partnerships, and taught courses focused on identity and student success. It is an honor to be part of this Joint Advisory Group, and Hoku looks forward to the collaboration and partnerships that will grow from this work.
William Labby
William Labby is an Associate Professor at Leeward Community College, where he serves as the Program Coordinator and Instructional Designer for the Associate in Science degree in Mechatronics. In this role, he leads the development of curriculum and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for careers in advanced manufacturing, automation, and related technical fields. His work reflects a strong commitment to applied education, workforce development, and student success.
Before entering higher education, Professor Labby served 21 years in the United States Navy and retired as a Chief Petty Officer, he worked as a Cryptologist specializing in signals intelligence and electronic warfare. He is a combat veteran, having served in the Middle East and Persian Gulf during Operations Desert Storm Desert Shield and Southern Watch. His military career provided him with extensive technical expertise, leadership experience, and a deep understanding of complex systems and mission-critical operations.
Originally from New England, Professor Labby brings a disciplined, practical, and student-centered approach to teaching and program development. He holds an undergraduate degree from Hawaii Pacific University and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University. He is married and the proud father of a daughter.
Nicholas Mitchell
Nicholas Mitchell has been involved in the UH West O’ahu community for over a decade, where his journey began as an engaged student leader in 2015. Since joining the Noʻeau Center in 2017, Nick has progressed from an undergraduate peer tutor to his current role as the Online Engagement Coordinator. In this capacity, he leads tutor training and champions the center’s mission to cultivate lifelong learners.
As a proud 2019 UHWO Alumnus, Nick holds two bachelor’s degrees in Humanities with concentration in History and Social Sciences with concentration in Economics along with a Certificate in Asian Studies. He went on to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Western Governors University in 2022 and currently also serves as a lecturer in the accounting department, teaching BUSA 311, Financial Statement Analysis, each semester.
Currently pursuing a PhD in Learning Design and Technology at the UH Mānoa College of Education, Nick leverages his transdisciplinary background to drive digital innovation. He is dedicated to empowering 21st-century learners and advancing the academic mission of UH West Oʻahu through inclusive, technology-forward pedagogy.
Therese Nakadomari
Therese Nakadomari is the IT Director at UH West O‘ahu, with experience spanning three UH campuses. Her collaborative work focuses on programs, policy development, and operations that align with and support the strategic goals of each campus. Therese firmly believes that institutions thrive when all campus stakeholders are empowered and supported, enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities efficiently and effectively.
Throughout her professional journey, Therese has actively cultivated environments that foster collaboration and equitable access to resources. This approach not only enhances the student experience but also strengthens institutional effectiveness. She is a strong proponent of shared governance and believes that meaningful decision-making depends on thorough preparation, transparency, and respect for the diverse perspectives represented by various campus roles.
As the landscape of higher education evolves and new challenges emerge, Therese remains dedicated to advancing the success of UH. Therese’s commitment is reflected in the careful stewardship of resources, development and implementation of effective tools, and pursuit of successful outcomes for students.
Donald Oberheu
Don Oberheu is a Lecturer in the Digital Photography Program at Leeward Community College, where he has taught since 2010. His courses span introductory and advanced studio photography as well as media literacy and ethics, emphasizing technical mastery, visual storytelling, and critical thinking within structured, student-centered learning environments.
He holds a Master’s degree in Education in Learning Design and Technology and a Juris Doctor, bringing an interdisciplinary perspective that bridges pedagogy, systems design, and policy.
Beyond the classroom, Don is actively engaged in campus and system-wide service. He serves as a Lecturer Mentor Group (LMG) Representative for both the Faculty Senate and Campus Council, represents Leeward CC on the UHPA Board of Directors, and contributes to the Institute for Curriculum and Teaching and Learning (ICTL) Advisory Board and other campus committees.
As a member of the Joint Advisory Group (JAG), Don brings a faculty perspective grounded in teaching, mentorship, and institutional collaboration, supporting thoughtful and transparent decision-making as the University explores alignment between Leeward Community College and UH West Oʻahu.
Leslie Lynn Opulauoho
Leslie Lynn Opulauoho is a Junior Specialist in Student Affairs at the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu, serving as the Testing Coordinator and Learning Resources Specialist in the Noʻeau Center. With a career spanning three decades within the UH System, Leslie is a cornerstone of student support and institutional governance. She currently coordinates the E Ala Pono Academic Success Program and has served as the Student Affairs Lead for the Campus Commencement Coordination Committee since 2013.
Leslie’s extensive background includes nearly a decade at Windward Community College, where she rose to the rank of Associate Professor. Her foundational work began at UH Mānoa, serving as the New Student Programs Coordinator and ASUH Operational Manager. This breadth of experience allows her to navigate complex academic landscapes, from faculty senate committees to system-wide policy boards.
Currently representing UHWO on the UH System Foundations Board and convening the UH System Testing Center meetings, Leslie remains a vital voice in regional education. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and an M.Ed. in Educational Administration from UH Mānoa, complemented by doctoral studies at the University of Southern California. Her enduring dedication ensures that academic resources remain accessible and student-centered across the Hawaiian Islands.
Stanley Orr
Stanley Orr is a Professor of English and Faculty Senate Chai at UHWO. Hailing from California’s “Inland Empire,” Professor Orr holds a B.A. in English from U.C. Riverside and a Ph.D. in English from UCLA. A member of the UHWO Humanities Division since 2004, Orr teaches courses in writing, literature, and screen studies. Orr also serves as the Faculty Senate Chair at UHWO.
With respect to scholarship, Orr has published a number of essays in critical anthologies as well as articles in journals such as American Quarterly, Literature/Film Quarterly, and Jouvert: A Journal of Postcolonial Studies. Orr’s book Darkly Perfect World: Colonial Adventure, Postmodernism, and American Noir was published with The Ohio State University Press in 2010. At present, Orr is conducting research on the teleplays of John Kneubuhl, a celebrated Oceanic dramatist/screenwriter and a former member of the faculty at Leeward Community College. In a recent publication—“‘I Wonder Which of You is Real’: The Indigenous Confidence Man in John Kneubuhl’s ‘The Night of the Two-Legged Buffalo’” (published in a 2021 issue of Studies in American Humor), Orr analyzes the ways in which Kneubuhl dramatizes the life and exploits of Native Hawaiian provocateur Sam Amalu.
Christopher Pokipala
Christopher “Poki” Pokipala serves as a Counselor and Associate Professor at Leeward Community College’s Waiʻanae Moku Education Center. Over a decade of dedicated service, he has supported the Waiʻanae community through academic advising, outreach, admissions, and financial aid. A firm believer in the power of collective action, Poki coordinates the Kauhale Youth Leadership Training internship in partnership with MAʻO Organic Farms and serves as the Early College counselor for Waiʻanae High School and Kamaile Academy. His leadership roles include serving as co-vice chair for the Pūkoʻa no nā ʻEwa Council since 2021 and being a proxy representative for Nā ʻEwa on the Leeward CC Campus Council. As a kupa of Waiʻanae, Poki is driven to enhance the holistic well-being of his community and all of Hawaiʻi through the kuleana of education.
Princess Soares
Princess Soares is an Institutional Analyst at Leeward Community College with two decades of service within the University of Hawaiʻi System. Her work focuses on institutional research, and academic planning, where she helps tell the story of students through data to inform decision-making and support students and the communities they come from.
Originally from the moku of Koʻolauloa and a graduate of Kahuku High School, Princess now resides in a Hawaiian Homelands community in Kapolei. Living in Kapolei keeps her connected to everyday experiences of local families and students.
Her professional experience includes six years at the University of Hawaiʻi West Oʻahu as a Scheduler/Data Analyst and two years at Leeward Community College. She values the strengths of both institutions and the opportunity to support the moku of ʻEwa and Waiʻanae through their partnership.
Princess is known for her thoughtful and steady approach, taking time to listen and follow through in ways that support students and colleagues.
She currently serves as a representative for the Pūkoʻa no nā ʻEwa Council, supporting efforts grounded in Hawaiian values to uplift Native Hawaiian students and foster belonging in higher education.
Princess holds a B.A. in Speech from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
Tanaz Taj
Tanaz Taj is a full-time student and Digital Media major at Leeward CC. She is currently serving as ASUH-Leeward Vice President. ASUH’s purpose is to address student and faculty needs, hear from campus suggestions, and network with other groups. Tanaz’s hobbies are creating art, volunteering, and video production. She often enjoys participating in events, while learning from various viewpoints and perspectives. Tanaz hopes that being a Joint Advisory Board (JAG) member will help her find new ways to partner UH West Oahu with Leeward CC to keep students informed about the opportunities on both campuses.
Tawny Tynanes
Tawny Tynanes is a Class of 2023 graduate of James Campbell High School. Tawny currently attends the University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu, where she is pursuing a degree in Social Sciences with a concentration in Political Science.
At UH West O‘ahu, she has served in student government as Treasurer and Vice President, and Tawny is honored to serve as President for the 2026–2027 academic year. Tawny is passionate about advocating for students and promoting transparency and communication during important periods of campus growth and transition. She believes student voices are essential in shaping a supportive and successful campus community.
Outside of school, Tawny enjoys line dancing, crocheting for her small business, and beekeeping with her father. These hobbies have strengthened Tawny’s creativity, leadership, and connection to the community.
Please don’t hesitate to say hello if you see Tawny around.
Leilani Yanagi
Leilani Yanagi is an experienced educator with a strong commitment to advancing educational opportunities for all students and a deeply rooted dedication to the lāhui. She currently serves as a Native Hawaiian Success Counselor at Leeward Community College, where she provides academic advising, culturally grounded counseling, and program leadership to support student achievement in degree and workforce pathways.
In addition to her counseling work, she teaches Hawaiian Language, Introduction to College, and Self-Development courses, integrating ʻike Hawaiʻi to foster student growth, identity, and success. With a career spanning both K–12 and higher education, she has held a range of leadership roles focused on student success and institutional development.
Her current leadership roles include serving as Co-Vice Chair of Pūkoʻa no nā ʻEwa, member of the campus STAR Builder team, and supporting campus-wide engagement as Volunteer Coordinator for Commencement. Through her work, Leilani remains committed to empowering students and strengthening pathways for Native Hawaiian success in higher education.