Celebrating Excellence: University of Hawai'i at Hilo School of Nursing Sigma Nursing Honor Society Induction Success!
The future of healthcare on the Big Island just got a whole lot brighter. On May 15, 2026, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo proudly hosted its Sigma Nursing Honor Society Induction Ceremony, celebrating an extraordinary group of healthcare champions who embody academic excellence, leadership, and a deep passion for patient care.
Please join us in extending a massive congratulations to all of our new inductees!
Honor Society Inductees: Class of 2026
This year’s cohort represents the perfect blend of rising raw talent and seasoned healthcare leadership.
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15 Exceptional BSN Graduates: These newly minted Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates have survived the sleepless nights, mastered the clinical rotations, and demonstrated the academic rigor required to join the prestigious ranks of Sigma.
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2 Distinguished Community Leaders: We were incredibly honored to induct two pillars of our local healthcare ecosystem from Hilo Benioff Medical Center, including their visionary leader, Arthur Sampaga Jr. Their induction bridges the gap between academia and frontline leadership, reinforcing our community's shared vision for healthcare excellence.
Highlights & Memorable Moments
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Essay Contest Champion: A huge shoutout to Gya Kyla Liezl Malicad, who was officially announced as the winner of this year's essay contest! Gya’s powerful words perfectly captured the spirit, dedication, and heart required in the nursing profession, moving everyone in attendance.
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A Tradition of Excellence: The ceremony beautifully highlighted Sigma's core values of love, courage, and honor. For the BSN graduates, receiving their honor cords symbolized the transition from dedicated students to future healthcare leaders.
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Strengthening Community Roots: Having local icons like Arthur Sampaga Jr. in attendance served as a powerful reminder of the strong, vital partnership between UH Hilo’s nursing program and Hilo Benioff Medical Center. It underscored a collective commitment to elevating rural healthcare.
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An Atmosphere of Pure Pride: The room was electric, filled with supportive faculty, incredibly proud families, and plenty of well-deserved lei. It was a beautiful celebration of the grueling hard work, resilience, and heart that defines the nursing profession.
"Nurses are the heart of healthcare, and this year’s Sigma inductees represent the very best of that heart. Whether entering the workforce or guiding it from the executive suite, these leaders are ready to make waves."
Mahalo and Congratulations!
Thank you to the faculty, organizers, and families who supported these inductees on their journey. To our essay winner, our 15 BSN graduates, and our esteemed community leaders—thank you for your dedication to healing, leading, and serving our community with distinction.
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