Monica Lum

About Monica

With over 20 years working in education, from teaching elementary students to college freshmen, I find joy walking alongside haumāna as they navigate their educational journeys. If it wasn’t for my college freshman Resident Director who encouraged me to apply to be a Resident Advisor, my passion for Student Affairs in higher education would not have been ignited. (Haumāna: be open to new opportunities, you never know how they will impact you.) As a result of the influence my Resident Director had on me, along with other college faculty/staff and colleagues who contributed to my growth, I strive to be that encourager and supporter to haumāna, helping them build their self-awareness and self-efficacy.

I returned home to be closer to ‘ohana. I spend my free time cheering on the Golden State Warriors and New York Yankees, traveling, watching cooking shows, doing arts and crafts, or baking. I look forward to partnering with haumāna, their ‘ohana, and the colleges that they’re attending. I am excited to contribute to Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s mission.

Educational Background

• BA in Liberal Studies with a California Teaching Credential – University of Redlands
• MA in Education- Curriculum & Instruction – University of Redlands

Region / Kuleana: Hawaiʻi Pacific University, Chaminade University, University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa (Class of 2025: K-N), China, England, South Korea, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia

High School: Maryknoll School

Favorite Food: Vegetarian Burrito from Taqueria El Farolito in Oakland, CA

Favorite Place in Hawaiʻi: Kula, Maui

Best tip for Postsecondary Success: When you may feel overwhelmed, take a breath, reflect on what you can control and what you can’t control. Let go of the things you can’t control, and focus on the things you can control. Start there.