Nearly $100K awarded to students at Shidler Business Night

From left, AJ Halagao, Kent Coules, Kaedin Okimoto, Dean Vance Roley, Todd Takayama

(Photos credit: Paula Ota)

(Photos credit: Paula Ota)

(Photos credit: Paula Ota)

The Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa celebrated its 64th annual Business Night on May 8, at the Sheraton Waikiki. This signature event brought together nearly 500 students and business professionals for an evening of mentorship, recognition and networking.

With strong support from alumni and Hawaiʻi’s business community, 52 sponsored awards totaling $98,500 were presented to outstanding undergraduate and graduate students. Each year, Business Night celebrates student achievement and fosters professional development through meaningful connections with industry mentors. 

Organized by a Shidler students committee, the event pairs each student with a professional mentor whose experience aligns with their major or career goals. The evening featured a networking hour, dinner and awards presentation. This year’s Business Night theme was “First Class Futures: Elevating Tomorrow’s Leaders,” which was reflected in the thoughtful program throughout the evening.

“This year’s event celebrates the perseverance and development of Shidler students as they advance in their academic and career paths,” said Kaedin Okimoto, current Shidler student and executive director of this year’s Business Night committee. “We extend our utmost gratitude to the Business Night Committee, Shidler faculty, generous sponsors and dedicated mentors for making this event possible.”

This year’s keynote speaker was Shidler alumnus AJ Halagao MBA ’04, president, Hawai‘i Leadership Forum. His speech centered around his inspiring journey of resilience, curiosity, and self-belief. Halagao recounted the challenges he faced as an immigrant child navigating a new culture and language, emphasizing how hard work and perseverance became his guiding principles. He also highlighted the importance of embracing setbacks as a natural part of growth and encouraged students to keep learning and moving forward in the face of adversity.

“Business Night is a powerful reminder of the incredible potential of our students and the unwavering support of Hawai‘i’s business community,” said Shidler College Dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management Vance Roley. “For 64 years, this event has celebrated student excellence while forging professional relationships that shape futures. We’re especially grateful to our mentors, sponsors and alumni for making this evening possible.”

First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) served as title sponsor for the 20th consecutive year, while Hawaii Business magazine returned as media sponsor for the ninth year.

“Congratulations to this year’s outstanding student honorees and thank you to all the businesses who joined us in celebrating their achievements,” said FICOH President and CEO Todd Takayama, BBA ’90, who is also a Shidler alumnus. “Business Night continues to be a meaningful part of FICOH’s commitment to Shidler College. The mentorship experience is especially rewarding, fostering a true two-way exchange that brings fresh insights, energy and perspectives.”

For a complete list of the 2025 Business Night award recipients and sponsors, visit the Shidler College website. If you are interested in sponsoring a Business Night award for a future event, contact Jennifer Lieu, jennifer.lieu@uhfoundation.org or call (808) 956-3597.