Alahula Puʻuloa, he alahele na Kaʻahupāhau.

Everywhere in Puʻuloa is the trail of Ka‘ahupāhau. Said of a person who goes everywhere, looking, peering, seeing all, or of a person familiar with every nook and corner of a place. Ka‘ahupāhau is the shark goddess of Pu‘uloa (Pearl Harbor) who guarded the people from being molested by sharks. She moved about, constantly watching.

Nā ʻŌlelo Noʻeau #105

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Native Hawaiian Center at Pu‘uloa

Our Mission

The mission of the Native Hawaiian Center at Puʻuloa is to provide a trusted Kīpuka, where students learn and cultivate a sense of belonging rooted in Aloha ʻĀina.

Our Kīpuka is a respite from the storm. A place that over time and given the right conditions gradually permeates its stagnant surroundings igniting it with vitality. Out of something that has come to symbolize a void, something entirely lacking vibrancy–emerges the life-giving sanctuary that is Kīpuka.

Community

To expand on our shared vision in place-based hands-on learning we reach out across the mokupuni of Oʻahu to nearby loko iʻa, museums, kalo farms, conservation groups, and community members to bring opportunities to our cohorts for ongoing cultural enrichment. By immersing themselves in creating meaningful connections that go beyond the classroom, our students ultimately bring back and apply what they learn to their studies at Leeward Community College. Site visits are a cornerstone to our programs. Some of our partners include Kaʻala Farms, Kūkaniloko, Queen Emma Summer Palace, Mānoa Heritage Center and Loko iʻa Pāʻaiau.

Welcome message from our coordinator

Aloha Mai Kākou, ​

I welcome you to the Native Hawaiian Center at Puʻuloa at UH Leeward Community College. This is our Kīpuka and we are excited to share with you all the services that our unit can provide for your well-being as you travel on your path to secure a good life for you, your family and community.

We are here to serve and advocate for your success while in college. Our mission is “To provide a trusted Kīpuka, where students learn and cultivate a sense of belonging rooted in Aloha ʻĀina.” The staff of our Kīpuka seek to improve your lives by offering comprehensive services to include but not limited to counseling and academic advising, reliable program strategies, dependable support networks, financial aid and scholarship workshops, cultural activities and sound career exploration anchored in ʻIke Hawaiʻi—Hawaiian knowledge and understanding informed by aspects of Hawaiian culture.

It is my belief that moʻokūʻauhau (genealogy) determines who we are by our connection to our lands. When asked, “Where are you from?” one elegant and classic answer is, “I belong to the land of my birth”. Here is the sense of intimate belongingness that permeates the psyche of the people. We belong to the land the way all life belongs to it. Thus, our bloodlines and birth place speak of our identity.

So, I begin with genealogy. Born on Homestead lands, I descend from two lines; one lineage from Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island, and another from Kalihi on Oʻahu. I currently reside on Homestead lands in Waiʻanae, Oʻahu.

I also believe that students possess a solid core that makes each one of you special, that you will make a difference in the lives of those around you, and armed with the knowledge and experiences from Leeward CC you will make it through whatever comes along.

I was a student first at Leeward CC all those years ago and have had the pleasure of becoming a colleague to those who were once my professors. Having had many role models along my own personal journey, I will do my very best to be worthy of this position and its responsibilities.

We believe in you. Come to our Kīpuka and experience a sense of belonging, in college, in the classroom, with your classmates and new found friends.

Ke Aloha Nui,
Momi Kamahele
Coordinator

Welcome message from our coordinator

Aloha Mai Kākou, ​

I welcome you to the Native Hawaiian Center at Puʻuloa at UH Leeward Community College. This is our Kīpuka and we are excited to share with you all the services that our unit can provide for your well-being as you travel on your path to secure a good life for you, your family and community.

We are here to serve and advocate for your success while in college. Our mission is “To provide a trusted Kīpuka, where students learn and cultivate a sense of belonging rooted in Aloha ʻĀina.” The staff of our Kīpuka seek to improve your lives by offering comprehensive services to include but not limited to counseling and academic advising, reliable program strategies, dependable support networks, financial aid and scholarship workshops, cultural activities and sound career exploration anchored in ʻIke Hawaiʻi—Hawaiian knowledge and understanding informed by aspects of Hawaiian culture.

It is my belief that moʻokūʻauhau (genealogy) determines who we are by our connection to our lands. When asked, “Where are you from?” one elegant and classic answer is, “I belong to the land of my birth”. Here is the sense of intimate belongingness that permeates the psyche of the people. We belong to the land the way all life belongs to it. Thus, our bloodlines and birth place speak of our identity.

So, I begin with genealogy. Born on Homestead lands, I descend from two lines; one lineage from Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island, and another from Kalihi on Oʻahu. I currently reside on Homestead lands in Waiʻanae, Oʻahu.

I also believe that students possess a solid core that makes each one of you special, that you will make a difference in the lives of those around you, and armed with the knowledge and experiences from Leeward CC you will make it through whatever comes along.

I was a student first at Leeward CC all those years ago and have had the pleasure of becoming a colleague to those who were once my professors. Having had many role models along my own personal journey, I will do my very best to be worthy of this position and its responsibilities.

We believe in you. Come to our Kīpuka and experience a sense of belonging, in college, in the classroom, with your classmates and new found friends.

Ke Aloha Nui,
Momi Kamahele
Coordinator

In This Section

Programs

Reem Bassous

Kahua Ho‘omau Ola

Reem Bassous

Ke Ala ‘Anu‘u

Ke Ala ‘Ike Youtube screenshot

Ke Ala ‘Ike

Mount Ka‘ala landscape

Kūlia Mau

Lauhoe Youtube screenshot

Lauhoe

Support Services

Welina Mai Lounge

Attend virtual events, make an appointment to meet with an advisor, kanikapila in our lounge, practice ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, learn native plant names, enjoy quiet study hours, warm up a home lunch, borrow a laptop computer, or best of all, meet new people who will no doubt become your friends, mentors, and ʻohana. E komo mai!

    Academic Counseling

    Make us part of your educational journey — no matter what major you choose or what your interests are, a visit with a counselor can help! Meet up by appointment over the phone or on Zoom and get your questions answered. With a little extra planning you can develop your career path, uplift your spirits, and bring yourself that much closer to achieving your dreams.

    Peer Mentors

    Being new on campus can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Our programs provide you with a real time connection to success — because they are students too! Peer Mentors know what it means to ride the Leeward Community College wave and they will be there for you every step of the way. Whether you are looking for a study buddy, seeking opportunities for scholarships, or just want to hang out your Peer Mentor can assist you.

      Aijalon Echiberi

      Lauren Remular

      Matāniu Schrader

      Hours and House Rules

      Kīpuka House Rules

      To access limited in-person services in our Kīpuka, please adhere to the following:

        • Check into the LumiSight App or website– Daily Health Check-In is required before the entrance to campus facilities and must be approved for access.
        • Mask required- Properly cover your nose and mouth for the entire duration of your visit to the Center. More information on acceptable masks.
        • Actively observe social distance guidelines as depicted by signage around the Center.
        • Reservation confirmation is required for access to Kīpuka.
        • Email us for a reservation and await a confirmation
        • A 1-hour time limit will be observed (another reservation can be made to extend if there is no waiting list).
        • A valid photo ID is required for use of any Kīpuka resources.
          • Acceptable photo IDs include:
            • Current Leeward CC Student ID
            • The federal government issued a Photo ID

      Kīpuka In-Person Services

      Access to the Social and Quiet Study Areas. Seating is limited. Reservations are required.

        • Kīpuka On-campus Study hours:
          Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
        • Kīpuka On-campus Resources:
          Laptop and Textbook Resource Use (In-center only)
          Monday – Wednesday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

      Program Services in our Kīpuka by appointment only:

        • Lauhoe (Advising and Peer Mentoring)
          Kaimana Namihira, (808) 455-0292 or email
        • Kahua Ho’omau Ola (Advising and Peer Mentoring)
          Leilani Puchalski, (808) 455-0242 or email
        • Ke Ala ‘Anu’u (Advising)
          Puaonaona Stibbard, (808) 455-0245 or email
        • Ke Ala ‘Ike (Advising)
          Momi Kamahele, (808) 455-0627 or email
          Melissa Tupa, (808) 455-0545 or email

      Counseling Services available remotely by appointment only:

        • Native Hawaiian Counselor (Advising)
          Piʻikea Hardy-Kahaleoumi, (808) 455-0314 or email

      Kīpuka Virtual Remote Services

      Kīpuka Virtual Office (General information and support):

        • Melissa Tupa, (808) 455-0545 or email
        • Appointments for peer mentoring or general services will occur via zoom or by phone only.
        • Inquiries and appointment requests for general information can be made by email or by phone at (808) 455-0545 and will be forwarded to the appropriate person.

      To schedule an appointment in the Kīpuka Virtual Office:

        • Please email us or call (808) 455-0545 to request an appointment and someone will assist you.
        • Await a confirmation by email or phone with the details for your scheduled appointment.
        • Please be on time for all appointments. If you are running late or need to cancel and reschedule your appointment, call (808) 455-0545 or email us at least an hour before your scheduled time slot.

      Staff and Affiliate

      Momi Kamahele

      Professor (Hawaiian Studies and History) Native Hawaiian Student Support Coordinator
      808-455-0627
      Send an email

      Melissa Tupa

      Native Hawaiian Student Support Specialist
      808-455-0545
      Send an email

      Piʻikea Hardy-Kahaleoumi

      Associate Professor
      Native Hawaiian Program Counselor
      808-455-0314
      Send an email

      Kaimana Namihira

      Cultural Engagement & Hawaiian Language Specialist (Lauhoe)
      808-455-0292
      Send an email

      D. Leilani Yanagi

      Kahua Hoʻomau Ola 13th Year Specialist
      808-455-0242
      Send an email

      Puaonaona Stibbard

      Ke Ala ʻAnuʻu Project Coordinator
      808-455-0245
      Send an email

      Pearlena “Lena” Sarono Stone

      Retention Specialist (Ke Ala ʻAnuʻu)
      UH West Oʻahu, Affiliate
      808-689-2304
      Send an email

      Moana Makaimoku

      Retention Specialist (Ke Ala ‘Anuʻu)
      808-455-0544
      Send an email

      Kīpuka Hours

      *Except Holidays and Weekends

      Kīpuka (NHCP) is open for limited in-person services by appointment only. Hours are subject to change. See details below.

      In-person Services
      Monday-Wednesday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

      Virtual Remote Services
      Monday-Friday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

      MAKE A DONATION
      Kīpuka, Native Hawaiian Center at Puʻuloa gratefully accepts contributions that support our programs as part of the UH Foundation. Your generous support is tax-deductible and allows our Kīpuka to enhance our outreach and program offerings that will provide a rich array of student support services anchored in ʻIke Hawaiʻi.

      Mahalo for your support!

      Donate Today

      Kahua Hoʻomau Ola, 13th Year UH System Initiative, provides an opportunity for Native Hawaiian adults, who never attended college to attend Leeward CC, and give college a try. Our goal is to reduce barriers to college for students, and we understand that finances are sometimes a major obstacle. With that being said, if a student is accepted into our scholarship program, we will pay for tuition, books, and fees for his/her first year at Leeward Community College.

      Priority consideration is given to applicants who have no previous college experience or intend to enroll in college; who are of Hawaiian ancestry; who demonstrate in the application that there are financial and other barriers to enrolling in college; and who demonstrate in the application that they would not be able to attend college without the support of the program.

      Contact:
      D. Leilani Yanagi
      Kahua Hoʻomau Ola 13th Year Specialist
      Phone: (808) 455-0242
      Send an email

      Ke Ala ‘Anu‘u (KA‘A), STEM Bridge program is a 5-year grant initiative that serves Native Hawaiian students pursuing degrees in STEM pathways at both Leeward Community College and the University of Hawai’i-West Oʻahu. Eligible participants are provided academic support and social-emotional and financial literacy training and Hawaiian culture-based education for 4 years.

      Students receive guidance and support from both institutions that include personnel from the Kīpuka, Native Hawaiian Center at Pu‘uloa at Leeward CC and staff from the University of Hawai‘i-West O‘ahu. They include a Project Coordinator, support staff from UHWO, Retention Specialists and peer mentors. Participants are surrounded by a supportive environment that builds and maintains a well-rounded cultural and academic foundation from which to serve their family and community.

      Launched in 2009, the Ke Ala ʻIke Scholars Program seeks to inspire all Leeward CC students to hāpai (carry, fulfill) their kuleana (responsibilities) in academics and Hawaiian culture while focused on excellence and achievement on the way toward earning any Associate degree or certificate.

      Scholars engage in a one-year program with requirements to earn a place in the Ke Ala ʻIke Scholars graduating class and are granted the privilege of wearing a kīhei (mantle of accomplishment) at Leeward Community College’s Commencement Exercises.

      Contacts:
      Momi Kamahele
      Professor (Hawaiian Studies and History), Native Hawaiian Student Support Coordinator
      (808) 455-0627
      Send an email

      Kūlia Mau is a Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education (CTE) Project sponsored by ALU LIKE, Inc. and funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

      Our mission is to assist Native Hawaiian students who are considering or pursuing degrees in CTE programs, develop success skills, provide work experiences, and overcome employment barriers.

      Program participants receive services such as cultural and job readiness workshops, peer mentoring, lending library, laptop loan, IDAP book reimbursement, support for required tools and uniforms, stipend for unpaid internship, and funding to attend industry conferences and other professional development opportunities.

      Contact:
      Rona Wong
      Project Coordinator
      (808) 455-0299
      Send an email

      A First-Year Experience support program designed to equip Leeward Community College’s first-year students with navigating through their freshman year with a sense of purpose, sense of belonging, and sense of self-efficacy and all necessary components to academic success. ​

      This program’s goal is to help students set a firm foundation for academic excellence, graduating from Leeward CC with an associate’s degree and eventually transferring to a 4-year University to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher.

      Program benefits include course sequencing, holistic support, peer mentorship, financial aid, scholarship assistance, an academic achievement award, aspirational goal setting that is culturally compatible, and growth-mindset skills.

      Contact:
      D. Leilani Yanagi
      Kahua Hoʻomau Ola 13th Year Specialist
      Phone: (808) 455-0242
      Send an email