President, Michelle Au
Aloha, my name is Michelle Au and I am a graduate of the Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences (TPSS) Program and a current CTAHR Student Ambassador. I am currently pursuing my Master of Science degree in Entomology under the guidance of Dr. Mark Wright. For my graduate studies, I am working on a variety of projects. The first study analyzes the establishment and distribution of a new invasive caterpillar, Arcte Coerula, on Maui that has been seen attacking native mamaki (Pipturus albidus). Simultaneously, I am accessing the establishment rate of purposefully introduced predators and parasitoids in Hawaii to determine key factors that contribute to the naturalization of biological control agents. What I enjoy most about CTAHR is the family feel this college provides. I have gotten to know a lot of the students, faculty, and staff, which has allowed me to partake in amazing experiences such as conducting research in South Africa. I look forward to working with CTAHR Alumni Association for years to come!
Vice President, Arby Barone
Aloha mai kākou - my name is Arby Barone and I am from Waialua on the North Shore of Oʻahu. I graduated with a BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology from CTAHR and am currently pursuing a Master's degree in the Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering (MBBE) graduate program under the mentorship of Dr. Daniel Owens. My graduate studies involve understanding the differences in biochemistry between native and introduced plant species and their impact on human health. I am proud to be a member of the CTAHR ʻohana because of its rich history and legacy of community-involvement. Throughout my time in CTAHR, I have formed amazing relationships, met some of my closest friends, and have had many life-changing experiences. I look forward to working with the CTAHR Alumni Association and continuing to form relationships with other alumni as we all work together to further CTAHR's mission.
Secretary, Mandy Chen
Aloha, my name is Mandy Chen! I am a graduate of the Animal Science Program in CTAHR and am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Higher Education Administration. I currently work at the Oahu Resource Conservation & Development (ORCD) Council in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). As a conservation planner, I help local agricultural producers identify resource concerns (soil, water, air, plant, animals) and address them with conservation practices. My work intersects with numerous facets of CTAHR and affiliated organizations. I’m passionate about CTAHR because, like ORCD an NRCS, it is steward for the future of Hawaii and its people. As part of the Board of Directors of CTAHRAA, I look forward to working alongside alumni and students to help CTAHRAA to do greater and better things.
Treasurer, Kauahi Perez
Aloha, my name is Kauahi Perez and I am a graduate of the Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences Program in CTAHR, and a long-standing member on the Board of Directors for CTAHRAA. I was born and raised in Honolulu (Palolo Valley) and enjoy singing, dancing, gardening, and helping others with just about anything. I am always interested in trying new things and am excited for what lies on the horizon for CTAHRAA. What I love most about CTAHR is that we do many different things for many different people. Some might say that CTAHR is the 'Jack of All Trades' college, which is what makes it "The Best College in the World." But more importantly, in my view, CTAHR is the institution of creating great changes in the future. In my new role on the Board of Directors of CTAHRAA, I look forward to following the trend of CTAHR and creating great changes for the future of CTAHRAA.