The Shidler College of Business hosted a Master of Science in Finance (MSF) mixer on November 4 at the Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center. The event was attended by approximately 40 students and supported in part by the CFA Society Hawaiʻi, with participation from numerous finance faculty members. The audience enjoyed an engaging evening of discussion and networking centered on the theme “Where Are We Headed? Navigating the Future of Finance in Hawaiʻi.”
The evening opened with remarks from Shidler College Dean Vance Roley, followed by an introduction to the MSF program by Hua Chen, faculty director of the MSF program. Chen provided an overview of the program’s curriculum, enrollment, scholarships and the BAM (bachelor’s and master’s) pathway, which allows undergraduate finance majors to earn a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe.
The panel discussion featured six industry leaders.
Six distinguished speakers representing key sectors—including banking, insurance, real estate, wealth management and hedge funds—shared insights on the evolving landscape of finance. Panelists included Jordan Baird, MBA ’21, president and executive director of Neokai Capital; Brandon Lin, chief investment officer, Q+ Technology | SMA Capital; Lance Parker, president and chief executive officer, Alexander & Baldwin; Ian Tanaka, senior vice president and treasurer, Central Pacific Bank; Sharilyn Tanaka, senior vice president – personal lines, Atlas Insurance Agency; and Veronica Wong, vice president and senior portfolio manager, Bank of Hawaiʻi.
The panel discussion was guided by questions such as “How is Hawaiʻi’s unique economy shaping financial opportunities?” and “What key skills will define the next generation of finance professionals?” Answers provided lively conversation among students and industry leaders. The event concluded with speed networking, giving students an opportunity to connect one-on-one with panelists and deepen discussions. Brett D’Amato, BBA ’19, organizational development administrator, Central Pacific Bank, and Lori Jones, vice president, The Festival Companies, joined the event too.
“This was another very successful event hosted by the MSF program, with a great turnout and enthusiastic participation,” said Chen. “Current students gained valuable insights into key industry trends, diverse career paths, and essential skill sets through engaging panel discussions, while also building connections with professionals. The event also highlighted the strength of our program—its rigorous curriculum, tailored education, and talented student pool—helping us build long-term partnerships with industry leaders and create more job opportunities for our students.”
>> Event photos here
