Dean's Message
Aloha,
The 21st century is evolving rapidly and business leaders face an array of complex challenges and promising opportunities. Success requires mastering best practices in business while cultivating a deep understanding of diverse cultures, emerging technologies and interconnected global economies.
At the Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, we offer a diverse range of innovative business programs in a multicultural learning environment. Our students gain practical, hands-on experience through research projects, internships and international study opportunities, which equips them to excel in real-world settings.
Recognized for international excellence, Shidler College consistently ranks among the nation’s top 20 business schools for international business by U.S. News & World Report,which underscores our commitment to providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a global marketplace. The college is also accredited by AACSB International, a distinction held by only one-third of U.S. business schools.
The college has benefited from the extraordinary generosity of alumnus Jay H. Shidler, BBA ’68, whose total giving to date stands at approximately $238 million in cash, land leases and in-kind donations. This remarkable contribution represents the largest individual donation in the university’s 110-year history and the second-largest known gift to any U.S. business school at a public university. Mr. Shidler’s support continues to elevate our programs, facilities and opportunities for students.
In 2019, the School of Travel Industry Management rejoined Shidler College. This strategic integration also introduced more than $1.5 million in new student scholarships and six new faculty endowments. With these investments, the TIM School is ranked among the top 15 hospitality and tourism programs in the US and placed 46th in the world in the 2024 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) rankings.
In 2023, the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center (RISE) opened its doors. This first-of-its-kind, $77 million adaptive reuse project is an immersive live-learn-work innovation community with 374 beds for student housing and is open to students across all UH campuses. Managed by Shidler’s Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship, the expansion to RISE offers new student programming, a co-working space, meeting rooms, classrooms, a recording studio, and prototyping labs to foster entrepreneurial growth and innovation.
The college provides over $1 million in scholarships to deserving students annually, ensuring access to a world-class education. More than $300,000 is also allocated each year for study abroad opportunities, empowering students to gain invaluable international experience and cultural insights. Shidler College has a dedicated career service center, which secures approximately 500 internships each year, offering critical hands-on experience and connections to leading organizations.
Dedication to student success is reflected in impressive career outcomes—approximately 90% of graduates secure careers within three months of graduation, demonstrating the strength of our programs and robust industry partnerships. The college has an active alumni network of over 45,000 professionals across the globe creates a supportive community that fosters mentorship and career advancement.
At Shidler College, our mission is to prepare students to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment. I encourage you to explore our website, learn more about our vibrant community, and consider joining our Shidler ‘ohana (family).
Please contact our dedicated faculty and staff if we may assist with any questions.
With warmest regards,
V. Vance Roley
Dean and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Shidler College of Business