The 2017 Hogan Entrepreneurs Graduates and Inductees
The Hogan Entrepreneurs program on April 26, celebrated its 15th annual graduation and induction ceremonies. Thirty-four new graduates were honored bringing the total to more than 400 students who have graduated from the certificate program. The program provides students with the opportunity to learn firsthand from experienced Hawaii business leaders and entrepreneurs about business. Graduates will have learned the tools, skills, exposures, and motivation to succeed in entrepreneurial undertakings and to make entrepreneurial contributions to their communities.
At this year’s event, the Hogan Entrepreneurs program expressed its gratitude to Ed and Lynn Hogan by presenting them with a pahi kaua, made from the bill of a flat bill swordfish. The Hogan program continues to be funded through generous contributions from the Hogan Family Foundation, located in California.
Ed and Lynn Hogan received a sword (pahi kaua) crafted from a swordfish bill by renowned Native Hawaiian artisan and Chaminade alumnus Gordon "Umi" Kai, BS '73.
The program also honored Bro. Bernard Ploeger, SM, who has been a staunch supporter of the Hogan program throughout its 15 years. He will conclude his Chaminade presidency this summer. Bro. Ploeger received a ko`oko`o (wooden staff) made from the native kamani tree.
Kai honored Bro. Bernard Ploeger, SM with a handcrafted ko`oko`o or wooden staff.
The Hogan program recognized 13 students for their outstanding work in various areas and at different class levels. Judy Ng, a senior majoring in Business Administration, took top honors as the Outstanding Hogan Entrepreneur of 2017. The Hogan program recognized Ng as the student who achieved the most significant results while consistently embracing the spirit of the program though her earnestness and enthusiasm for the underlying values of the program.
Judy Ng, the 2017 Outstanding Hogan Entrepreneur
The program also recognized a faculty member for the first time with its new Exceptional Teaching Award. The students applauded loudly as Business professor Denny McDonough received the honor.
Gary Hogan, Ed Hogan and Business professor Denny McDonough
Bro. Ploeger with Gary Hogan, Lynn Hogan, Ed Hogan, and Glenn Hogan commended all the Hogan Entrepreneurs.
HOGAN ENTREPRENEURS 2017 AWARDS
Outstanding Hogan Entrepreneur of the Year
Judy Ng
Outstanding Graduate Student
Gabriel Torno
Outstanding Seniors
Mario Armendariz
Sheehan Chase
Outstanding Junior
Matthew Southard
Aloha Spirit Award
Desiree DePondicchello
Hannah Sablan
Tyler Taydus
Community Service Award
Monique Gomes
Karanna Soulvongs
Gailene Wong
"In the Arena" Award
Ana Acuna Cesped and Carlos Gutierrez Ayala
Exceptional Teaching Award
Mr. Denny McDonough
2017 Hogan Entrepreneurs Graduates
The Full Listing of Graduates