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:
Roy Tom