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Hangin' at the Reef
From the Classroom to the World: Training Future Diplomats
In this episode of Hangin' at the Reef, host Jeffrey Rich dives into the exciting updates to Hawaii Pacific University’s revamped Master of Arts in Diplomacy and Global Security program. Joining him are three esteemed faculty members:
- Dr. Russell Hart, a military historian and author with a focus on U.S. military history and genocide studies.
- Dr. Andrea Malji, an expert in international studies and religious nationalism, and HPU's 2021 Teacher of the Year.
- Dr. Jon Davidann, a historian and creator of the History Lens video podcast, specializing in contextualizing current global issues.
They discuss how the updated program now offers tailored concentrations, unparalleled flexibility, and a global perspective that equips students for diverse careers in diplomacy, security, and international relations. The trio shares real-world examples of impactful student projects and highlights how Hawaii’s strategic location and cultural diversity enhance the learning experience. Listeners will gain insights into the program's interdisciplinary approach, focus on critical thinking, and commitment to addressing contemporary global challenges, including climate change, international security, and even space diplomacy.
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3. The Evolution of Nursing Careers: What’s Ahead
54:10||Season 2, Ep. 3This conversation explores the diverse pathways and opportunities within the nursing profession, highlighting the evolution of nursing roles, the impact of technology, and the importance of global perspectives in nursing education. Dean Edna Magpantay-Monroe shares insights on non-traditional nursing careers, the significance of public health, and the future of nursing in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.2. Building Community with Creativity
32:53||Season 2, Ep. 2This episode of Hanging at the Reef explores the vibrant arts community at Hawaii Pacific University (HPU) and its significant role in fostering creativity, collaboration, and community among students. Host Dabney Gough engages with Dr. Teresa McCreary and student Aubrey Motsinger to discuss the various arts programs at HPU, the importance of creativity in education, and the new Bachelor of Arts and Markets degree. They share experiences of community building through music and theater and the significance of experiential learning through tours. The conversation highlights how the arts serve as a vital platform for students to find their voice, build connections, and prepare for future careers in creative fields.1. The Evolving Value of a College Degree
40:50||Season 2, Ep. 1In this episode of 'Hanging at the Reef', host Jeffrey Rich engages with Ryan Tin-Loy, Senior Career Services Advisor at Hawaii Pacific University, to discuss the evolving landscape of career services and the job market. They explore the importance of hands-on experience, the changing perceptions of college degrees, and the necessity for students to develop multifaceted skills. The conversation delves into the significance of internships, networking, and personal branding in securing employment. Additionally, they address the impact of AI on job opportunities, the reality of influencer careers, and the importance of interpersonal skills in the workplace.16. Revisiting Earth Day: Lessons from the Past
32:36||Season 1, Ep. 16In this episode of Hangin’ at the Reef, Dr. Regina Ostergaard‑Klem—acting Associate Dean of the College of Natural and Computational Sciences and instructor in both the undergraduate Environmental Science/Environmental Studies program and the Master’s in Sustainability graduate program at HPU—examines the evolution and enduring significance of Earth Day, from its 1970 origins to today’s global observance. She explores Hawai‘i’s grassroots sustainability efforts, introduces the Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) as a more holistic measure than GDP, and underscores the power of transdisciplinary collaboration to address complex environmental challenges.Resources mentioned:Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE): https://www.aashe.org/Hawaii Aloha Challenge – state‑wide sustainability pledge and action platform: https://alohachallenge.hawaii.gov/Hawai‘i Green Growth – public‑private partnership for sustainable island prosperity: https://www.hawaiigreengrowth.org/Islands 2030 – global island sustainable development initiative: http://islands2030.org/United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): https://sdgs.un.org/goalsHawai‘i Genuine Progress Indicator (GPI) – alternative measure of well‑being and sustainability: https://dbedt.hawaii.gov/economic/hawaii-genuine-progress-indicator-hi-gpi/“GPI Island Style: Localizing the Genuine Progress Indicator to Hawaii” (ResearchGate): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266478076_GPI_Island_Style_Localizing_the_Genuine_Progress_Indicator_to_Hawaii15. The Role of Tariffs in Modern Economics
50:54||Season 1, Ep. 15In this episode of Hangin' at the Reef, Dr. Gerard H. Dericks discusses the current economic landscape, focusing on the implications of tariffs, their historical context, and their impact on consumers and producers. He emphasizes the complexity of tariffs, their role in economic education, and the psychological factors influencing public perception of wealth and economic stability. The discussion also touches on negotiation strategies in international trade and the broader implications of economic policies. This conversation delves into the complexities of tariffs, their economic implications, and the broader context of trade in the global economy. The speakers discuss the motivations behind tariffs, the short-term pain versus long-term gains, and the relationship between national defense and economic policies. They explore the impact of tariffs on manufacturing innovation, trade deficits, and the role of the US dollar. The discussion also addresses inflation, inequality, and the challenges faced by smaller economies. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of tariffs and their effects on both domestic and global markets.14. From Ocean to Lab: The Journey of Marine Compounds
41:33||Season 1, Ep. 14In this Hangin' at the Reef episode, Dr. F. David Horgen discusses his groundbreaking research in marine natural products and their potential applications in medicine. He explains the significance of the HPU Natural Products Library, the process of high throughput screening for drug discovery, and the collaborative efforts in developing treatments for various diseases, including cancer and hypoxic events in newborns. The conversation also highlights the role of students in hands-on research and the importance of preventative medicine and nutrition in healthcare.13. Feminism's Path Forward: Challenges and Solutions
55:33||Season 1, Ep. 13In this episode of 'Hanging at the Reef,' host Jeffrey Rich engages with Dr. Allison Gough and Dr. Linda Lierheimer to discuss the significance of Women's History Month. They explore its origins in the 1970s, the impact of second wave feminism, and the milestones achieved in women's rights, including suffrage and reproductive rights. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of recognizing women's contributions throughout history. This conversation delves into the evolution of women's rights, focusing on key milestones and setbacks, particularly the fight for equal pay and reproductive rights. The discussion highlights the ongoing challenges women face in achieving equality in the workplace and the political arena, as well as the impact of movements like Me Too. The speakers emphasize the need for policy changes to support women's rights and the importance of representation in leadership roles. This conversation explores the barriers women face in achieving leadership roles, the impact of social media on women's empowerment, and the future of feminism in navigating contemporary challenges. The speakers discuss societal perceptions, sexism, and the role of activism in promoting gender equality, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and intergenerational collaboration.12. Understanding Religious Nationalism
35:24||Season 1, Ep. 12In this Hangin' at the Reef episode, Dr.Margot Kitts joins host Jeffrey Rich to delve into the intricate topic of religious nationalism, focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They explore the historical roots of the conflict, the significance of key events like the Balfour Declaration and the UN partition plan, and the influence of religious ideologies on political dynamics. The discussion highlights the importance of education and understanding in navigating the deeply held beliefs that drive the conflict while also considering potential pathways to peace and the lessons history offers.Books by Dr.Margot Kitts :1. Violence, Conspiracies, and New Religious Movements: A Tribute to the Work of James R. Lewis. 2024.Editor Margo Kitts. Equinox Press.https://www.amazon.com/Violence-Conspiracies-New-Religious-Movements/dp/18005050782. Cambridge Companion to Religion and War. 2023. Editor Kitts. ISBN:978110888407 https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/cambridge-companion-to-religion%C2%A0and-%20war/F9EFA93EEAFF57B76F9D19718BAC6D333. Themes, Theories, and Controversies, 2022 https://www.cambridge.org/core/elements/sacrifice/9A5583880E76A99D63D36D488B62FD0C4. Kitts and Juergensmeyer, Eds. Buddhist Violence and Religious Authority: Jerryson, 2022. https://www.equinoxpub.com/home/buddhist-violence/5. Tribute to the Work of Michael Elements of Ritual and Violence, 2018 Sacrifice: https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/elements-of-ritual-and-violence/E4D15686F2A18B38E141EA16C9336BB56. Kitts, Ed. Martyrdom, Self-Sacrifice, and Self-Immolation: Religious Perspectives on Suicide, 2018 https://www.amazon.com/Martyrdom-Self-Sacrifice-Self-Immolation-Religious-Perspectives/dp/01906564927. Juergensmeyer, M, Kitts, M. and Jerryson, M. Eds. 2016. Violence in the World’s Religious Traditions. Oxford University Press. https://global.oup.com/academic/product/violence-and-the-worldsreligious-traditions-9780190649661?cc=us&lang=en&8. Juergensmeyer, M, Kitts, M., and Jerryson, M., Eds. 2013 (hardback), 2015 (paperback). Handbook of Religion and Violence. Oxford University Press. https://www.amazon.com/Oxford-Handbook-Religion-Violence-Handbooks/dp/01902700989. Kitts, Margo. 2005, 2012 paperback and e-book. Sanctified Violence in Homeric Society: Oath-Making Rituals and Narratives in the Iliad, Classics Division of Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK. https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/sanctified-violence-in-homericsociety/FF23BB9213C52A3B2A0A42CD837E6D3310. Juergensmeyer, Mark, and Margo Kitts, Eds. 2011. Princeton Readings in Religion and Violence Princeton University Press. https://press.princeton.edu/titles/9566.html11. Kitts, M., et al., Eds. 2010. State, Power, and Violence, Vol. 3 of Ritual Dynamics and the Science of Ritual. Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz. Gen Ed. Axel Michaels. https://www.harrassowitzverlag.de/pdfjs/web/viewer.html?file=/ddo/artikel/50354/978-3-447-062039_Table%20of%20Contents.pdf#11. Celebrating the History of Aloha Tower
30:43||Season 1, Ep. 11In this episode, host Jeffrey Rich dives into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Douglas Askman about the rich history of the Aloha Tower in Hawaii and the exciting plans for its centennial celebration. They explore the tower's iconic status as a landmark, its pivotal role during the maritime era and World War II, and the vibrant stories that surround it.Dr. Askman shares insights into a collaborative project with students that aims to breathe new life into the narratives of the tower and the harbor area. This initiative seeks to captivate the community and boost tourism by connecting historical tales to the present day. The discussion is filled with enthusiasm about the future plans for the tower's 100th anniversary in 2026.We invite you to join us on this journey! If you have stories about the Aloha Tower, please share them with Dr. Douglas Askman at daskman@hpu.edu. Your contributions can help bring history to life and make the centennial celebration truly memorable.