Jean Takamura loved the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and devoted her professional career to helping its students, staff, faculty, and administrators to be successful in their academic and professional pursuits. Jean joined the University in 1960 as a stenographer and held business support positions progressing through department chairs, deans, vice presidents, vice chancellors, and ultimately chancellors of the University. She retired from the University on December 30, 2002, as secretary to interim Chancellor Deane Neubauer completing her 42 years of service to the University of Hawai‘i.
Jean was known by those who work with her as being distinguished not only by her professionalism but also for being an empathetic listener. She valued building strong, trusted relationships with her leaders and those who interacted with her. She had poise and composure to speak with anyone, no matter who they were. She was credited with maintaining a steady and welcoming demeanor while focusing on getting work done. She had an uncanny and unwavering focus on attention to detail and pointed out where things “didn’t quite measure up.” Jean had a keen sense of humor coupled with a positive attitude regardless of the situation. Her hallmark was the ever-necessary diplomacy and tactful handling of complex or involved situations.
In honor of Jean’s accomplishments and their love of her and their father Yukio, her sons and spouses Guy (Teri Takamura), Blake (Joe Whittinghill), and Clete (Teri Harada) established the Jean Takamura Staff Excellence Endowed Fund.
This was the University’s first endowment recognizing excellence in the work of its business support staff. The fund provides support to advance the excellence of the staff of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. It supports the professional development opportunities for executive assistants, secretaries, and business support administrators who have shown excellence in the execution of their roles and who are strong supporters of the University of Hawai‘i.
We are thrilled to announce the 2024 recipients of the Jean Takamura Staff Endowment Fund, awarded to outstanding staff members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and service.
Individuals were nominated by their department chairs and/or deans and two awardees were selected by the Mānoa Staff Senate Chair and the Provost. Each recipient has been awarded a $1,000 Staff Grant in recognition of their valuable contributions.
Congratulations to:
Michele Inouchi
Division of Student Success Administrative Services – Administrative Officer
Michele Inouchi has been a dedicated member of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa community since April 2001, beginning her tenure as a casual Secretary II in the Athletics Department. She has since progressed to an APT Institutional Support position and, in October 2016, transitioned to the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success as a Fiscal Specialist. During her time, Michele served as the primary Building Coordinator for Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Services, where she notably improved building signage. Currently, she serves as the backup Building Coordinator. In June 2021, her fiscal expertise led to a promotion to Fiscal Specialist, Senior, handling complex procurements, budgets, and more. By May 2023, she advanced to an Administrative Officer role with both fiscal and HR responsibilities. A graduate of the prestigious 2019 LEAP Advance Leadership Development Program, Michele actively engages in campus life through the Mānoa Staff Senate and as a volunteer for numerous events. Known for her “quiet but effective” approach and resourcefulness, Michele is a primary point of contact who consistently assists others and is a strong advocate for ADA accommodations. Her dedication and willingness to help make her an invaluable asset to the university.
Roy Tom
Physics and Astronomy Department – Mechanist
Roy Tom has been an integral part of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa for an impressive 57 years, having joined in 1967. Serving as the department’s expert machinist, Roy has been crucial in crafting critical components for countless research projects, contributing to breakthroughs in areas like radio communication and Antarctic expeditions. His craftsmanship is evident in the Foucault pendulum in Keller Hall. Currently, he continues to impact cutting-edge science by fabricating containers for moon dust research. Beyond his technical expertise, Roy is a dedicated mentor, having guided the McKinley High School Robotics team since 2000, even leading them to a regional victory and the World Championships. His long-term dedication, institutional knowledge, and collaborative spirit have made him an invaluable asset to the university community. As he approaches his 60th year of service, his legacy continues to shape the department and the wider university community.