This story is part of a series of articles connected with the Polynesian Cultural Center's 60th anniversary

Three returned missionaries at BYU–Hawaii spoke of the importance of understanding culture in missionary work. They noted respecting and learning a new culture on their missions helped them feel happy and shared stories and gave advice for prospective missionaries at BYUH.

A BYUH alumna shares her story of gratitude, resilience and unwavering belief toward her goal to have a master’s degree from Harvard University

Before coming to BYU–Hawaii, Kimo Burgess said he didn’t have many close friends. Now, because of the opportunities to meet new people at BYUH, he said he has “hundreds of friends” he considers family. He said he was careful to always be friendly and say aloha to his fellow classmates. He urged other students to do the same.

BYUH alumnus shares his experience learning multiple hobbies and encourages others to discover their own

The Leave Your Mark event gave people an opportunity to have their names become part of the campus infrastructure and to celebrate the progress made on the new science building, as listed on BYU–Hawaii’s University Events website. Students and staff signed a beam that was placed in the rafters of the new building, allowing students to become a permanent part of the BYUH campus.

After being on his own since he was a senior in high school, getting involved with gangs and going to jail, Quincy Tahiata said he was able to turn his life around. He served a mission and came to BYU–Hawaii in an effort to build a new life and end the cycle of dysfunction in his family.

On Dec. 2, the groundbreaking ceremony was held for Bengaluru India Temple. BYU–Hawaii students from India shared their joy at President Russell M. Nelson’s announcement of the temple and discussed the blessings that will come to their land and people. They also shared the sacrifices they have made in the past to attend the temple and their plans to attend the completed Bengaluru India Temple in the near future.

Finau Hafoka and his wife, Lucy Hafoka, said they are grateful for the opportunity to be on the Lord’s errand and assist his work in Papua New Guinea.