The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s 106th Commencement Exercises—held Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the Stan Sheriff Center—featured two outstanding student speakers who delivered inspirational messages that were well received by their fellow graduates and the thousands of family members, friends and supporters in attendance. An estimated 2,100 students participated in the commencement ceremonies.

Catherine Brianne Gardiner

Catherine Brianne Gardiner, the morning ceremony speaker, graduated with a degree in second language studies and intends to join the Peace Corp and teach English as a second language. Gardiner wants to empower her students to cultivate important relationships and create bridges between individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Shiraz Dole

Shiraz Dole, the afternoon ceremony speaker, graduated with a degree in business administration in entrepreneurship and international business from the Shidler College of Business. Dole says his goal is to one day start a global technology firm and offer free skills training to help low-income women enhance their education and attain higher paying jobs.