Surrounded by the death and chaos of the Vietnam War as children, Alexander and Janette Tam shared their survival stories of near-death attacks from pirates with swords and communist guerilla fighters, to their escape on boats and airplanes through three different countries to arrive in the United States, where the former BYU–Hawaii missionary couple first met.

Laie local and entrepreneur Penny Toilolo officially launched her workout business, Hiva Fitness, through Zoom in June 2020, alongside her two co-founders, Siona Tejada and Juaul Aukusitino. Due to the coronavirus pandemic causing extended lockdowns, the desire for accessible at-home workouts increased. Toilolo said Hiva Fitness seemed like the perfect solution.

While the stay-at-home order in the State of Hawaii had been in effect, essential workers of Hawaii had not had the opportunity to shelter at home. Members of the community and campus tell their stories of the experiences while working amid the global pandemic. They said they are grateful to have jobs throughout the pandemic and also said by following safety protocols, people can remain safe.

Upbeat music played outside, a decorated booth displayed encouraging words, and smiles and warm greetings extended to students from counselors and interns of Counseling and Disability Services on Sept. 13 for an open house tour.

Saving endangered snails and butterflies in Hawaii requires raising them in the safety of a lab, releasing them into carefully crafted environments where they can thrive without getting eaten by predators and then surveying them using tiny field cameras, explained biologists in the Snail Extinction Prevention Program and Pulelehua Project.

The COVID-19 pandemic left roughly 1,000 BYU–Hawaii students stuck on campus and many without a job, explained David Fonoimoana.

The BYU–Hawaii Ballroom Club presidency and members said they are doing their best to unite their club virtually. They said they are continuing to motivate and serve each other during unprecedented times and called on students to join and participate.

Former and current BYU-Hawaii students say the best way to stay in touch with friends is through meaningful, dedicated ways of contact such as a phone call, though social media and messaging are also good ways to stay updated on each others’ lives.

According to Assistant to the President Laura Tevaga, the COVID-19 vaccination policy at BYU–Hawaii was seen as the best way to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 for the university and the surrounding community. Tevaga, gave insights into how the policy came to be and her hopes for Fall Semester.