Alumni News

With so many Hawaiʻi farmers facing challenges that can seem insurmountable, the timing couldnʻt have been better for CTAHR’s Seeds of Wellbeing initiative to host “Mālama the Farmer, Taking Care of Yourself and Each Other” last month.

If you’ve ever wondered why some buildings in Hawaiʻi are eaten alive by termites, while others seem to stand the test of time just fine, it might be due to whether the foundation is wrapped in a Basaltic Termite Barrier. The patented, non-chemical, subterranean, stainless-steel screen that is still in use today was invented by CTAHR entomologist Minoru Tamashiro. 

Presenting his research on hala scale was Mason Russo’s initial, official reason for attending the 2023 Society of Island Biology annual meeting in Lipari, Italy. But the overall experience – being surrounded by like-minded scientists from exotic locales across the globe – was also enlightening and eye-opening for this PhD candidate in the Dept. of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences.

Want to identify pests and combat them with the most effective strategies? There’s an app for that! Just one problem: not all apps are created equal, and unfortunately some are more hassle than help. Enter MyIPM, a terrific new app that’s designed for industry and homeowners alike.

During this fall 2023 semester, the FDM 495: Capstone Portfolio class had the great opportunity to meet and talk stories with two local fashion designers, Matt Bruening (Bruening label) and Allison Izu Song (Allison Izu label). The two designers shared their background information, their triumphs and challenges in the fashion industry, and what they are looking forward to accomplishing in the near future. The FDM seniors were encouraged to ask questions such as what to expect after graduation, as well as what advice they can share with new fashion graduates in a very competitive field. The FDM seniors were thrilled that the designers disclosed their experiences and insights and are grateful to have met with Matt and Allison. We are truly appreciative to have Matt and Allison’s unwavering support all these years. They have been the best mentors to FDM students in our internship program, as well as very active FDM Advisory Board members. Mahalo, Matt and Allison! -written by Marie Cristi-Kim