Windward college gets a push from new 'ambassadors'

By Eloise Aguiar
Advertiser Windward O'ahu Writer

KANE'OHE — Some people think Windward Community College is across the street from the Pali Golf Course but it's not. Others don't know the school is part of the University of Hawai'i system, so the campus has inaugurated ambassadors to spread the word.

About 30 business and community leaders from Kahuku to Waimanalo recently began their duties at a luncheon that included a course on the college called WCC 101, and their homework was to familiarize themselves with materials handed out at the luncheon in the college's new cafeteria.

For extra credit, they could take the tour of the campus, said Angela Meixell, WCC chancellor.

"They all brought different strengths and the one thing they have in common is they're part of our (college) community," Meixell said. "It's an amazing group of people, just a cross section of community leaders."

Besides spreading the word about the campus, the ambassadors will help with fund raising, lobbying and advising the chancellor.

Pohai Ryan, executive director for the Kailua Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of the college, said she'll help with spreading the word about the college, something she's doing through the chamber's information kiosk in Kailua.

"It's simple because it's not a hard sell," Ryan said. "As a graduate, I'm proud of where I came from. The facilities and the quality of the courses have increased, and it's a healthy alternative for students."

The college has transformed from old rundown and sometimes leaky buildings to a modern campus over the past decade, with $50 million spent for new buildings, renovation of old buildings and for equipment for science, vocational and art courses.

Chuck Eakes, owner of an insurance company, said the school has participated in the community, including hosting the Windward Ho'olaulea last month. Eakes said he agreed to be an ambassador because of his commitment to higher education and the college's commitment to the community.

KC Collins, the school's new director of development, came up with the ambassador idea.

Meixell said the ambassadors are like ripples in a pond, spreading the word about the college.

"We're so broke and if we're going to keep doing these good things we're going to need all the friends that we can get," she said.

Reach Eloise Aguiar at eaguiar@honoluluadvertiser.com or 234-5266.