Michael Ballesteros
Majors: Finance and International Business
Michael Ballesteros is a Shidler Direct Admit and Regents Scholar in Manoa's Honors program, currently majoring in Finance and International Business with a minor in Economics. As the first-generation son of an elementary school teacher, Michael was taught to embrace education as a tool for impact and discovery. He embodies this sentiment through his undergraduate research, currently analyzing the financial and macroeconomic influence of genetically modified crops in North America. Outside of such academia, Michael will also serve as the Vice President of Finance at the Rho Chi chapter of Delta Sigma Pi, adding onto his past leadership experience as an associate at the Calvin Shindo Student Venture Fund and a volunteer coordinator at the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation. Michael also volunteers as a mentor for FIRST Robotics, and provides STEM education and outreach to elementary and middle schoolers in Hawaii. He hopes to combine his educational background, research focus, and past experiences into a career in consulting, where he aims to help grow startups specializing in sustainability and natural resource management. Michael is excited to represent the Shidler College of Business and give back to the community he proudly calls home. With a unique interdisciplinary approach to his academic and professional experience, he hopes to utilize the world of business as an avenue that connects people from all backgrounds, and a platform that helps solve the advanced issues of the 21st century.
Kaycee Chun
Majors: Marketing, Management, & International Business
Born and raised on O’ahu, Kaycee Chun holds a deep appreciation for her local community and carries a strong willingness to give back. Now an undergraduate student at the Shidler College of Business through their Freshman Direct Admit program (DAP), she is currently pursuing a triple major in Marketing, Management, and International Business. Since her admission to Shidler, Kaycee is actively engaged in the Shidler community through her various leadership positions. She has served as the Director of Marketing for the International Business Organization (IBO), and will continue her leadership roles by serving as the Director of Philanthropy for IBO as well as the Inter-Business Council Senator for the Real Estate Club (REC). Additionally, she contributes to supporting UH Mānoa as a Student Assistant at the Office of the Registrar by providing guidance to current and incoming students. She has previously interned with local non-profits which include Breast Cancer Hawaiʻi and Hawaiʻi Children’s Discovery Center, reinforcing her desire to build meaningful connections within her community. She is constantly seeking to expand her horizons, as she plans to study abroad in South Korea during the Spring of 2026 where she hopes to learn more about international marketing strategies. She is looking forward to taking these next steps in her academic journey and is excited for this new chapter as a Shidler Global Leader as she hopes to further expand her understanding of what it means to achieve international excellence and be a global leader.
Camille Downey
Majors: Human Resource Management, Marketing, Management, & International Business
SGL Cohort Coordinator
Originally from Houston, Texas, Camille has always been inspired by the strength of diverse communities and the power of meaningful connection. That perspective has only grown since moving to Hawaiʻi, which she now calls home. A Shidler Direct Admit student, Camille is pursuing a quadruple major in Human Resource Management, Marketing, International Business, and Management. She is passionate about helping others thrive, and her journey reflects a strong commitment to both professional development and community impact. Throughout her time at Shidler, Camille has held multiple leadership positions in Delta Sigma Pi, including Vice President of Community Service and Vice President of Corporate Relations, where she established relationships with local and national companies to support the career growth of business students. She currently serves as Vice President for the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and previously worked as a Resident Assistant for Student Housing. Most recently, Camille completed an internship with Interstel Technologies, where she supported marketing campaigns, conference planning, and reimbursement processing. Her drive to give back to the Shidler community is also seen through her role as a DAP Mentor and her contributions to the Shidler Transformational Acceleration Program (STAP), where she helps organize events that connect students with professionals. Camille continues to draw on her background in speech and debate, now coaching and judging national competitions, sharpening the communication and critical thinking skills that she brings into every space. As she looks ahead, Camille is excited to pursue a master’s degree in Human Resource Management through Shidler. She aspires to build a career in international human resources with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and organizational development, creating environments where people and companies grow together.
Ta'ani Jackson
Majors: Accounting & Finance
Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Ta’ani has always been fueled by discipline and a relentless drive for self-improvement. Throughout his youth, he was actively involved in sports, serving as captain of his high school golf team, playing basketball, and even stepping on stage for a bodybuilding competition. Sports and fitness continue to be strong passions of his, grounding his commitment to consistency, focus, and hard work. At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Ta’ani will be starting his junior year, pursuing a double major in Accounting and Finance. He recently completed a tax internship at Fukuya Hasegawa Partners, gaining foundational experience in tax preparation and client service, and is set to intern in audit with Accuity LLP in Summer 2026. On campus, he is the incoming Inter-Business Council Senator for Beta Alpha Psi, where he looks forward to collaborating with the other Shidler clubs to create a better overall experience. In Fall 2026, Ta’ani will be studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain, at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, marking his first time traveling outside the United States. He is eager to immerse himself in a global business environment and broaden his cultural and professional perspective. With long-term goals of obtaining his CPA and eventually working in financial management for a professional sports team, Ta’ani is honored to be a Shidler Global Leader and is excited to continue expanding his network, grow as an individual, and give back to his community.
Cassie Matsumoto
Majors: Accounting, Management Information Systems, & International Business
As an undergraduate student at the Shidler College of Business, Cassie Matsumoto is currently pursuing a triple major in Accounting, Management Information Systems, and International Business. Since her admission through the Direct Admit Program, Cassie has been an engaged member of the Shidler community. She has held leadership roles as Secretary (Fall ‘24, Spring ‘25) and President (Fall ‘25) of the Real Estate Club, and has made connections that spanned nationalities as a member of the International Business Organization. Staying true to her optimistic spirit, Cassie believes in seeing the world not as it is, but what it has the potential to be. As someone who is extremely passionate about working towards financial literacy, she hopes to one day become a CPA and tax attorney. But most importantly, Cassie has always believed in not pulling up the ladder behind her. As such, she has been dedicated to fostering growth not only in her peers but in future generations as well. In her free time, Cassie volunteers as a judge for the Hawaiʻi Speech League in support of her alma mater, ʻAiea High School, enabling students across the state to boldly speak on a sea of pertinent issues and find their voices the same way she did. For Cassie, the Shidler College of Business has truly become a place for her to thrive. She is ecstatic to continue exploring what it means to be a global citizen when she ventures across the Pacific Ocean to study abroad in Japan during the Spring of 2026. Cassie is both honored and grateful to take on the next chapter of her life as a member of the Shidler Global Leaders Program, an opportunity only made possible by the unwavering support of the village behind her.
Carly Miyamoto
Majors: Marketing & International Business
Passionate about exploring the intersections of business and design, Carly Miyamoto is an undergraduate student at the Shidler College of Business majoring in Marketing and International Business with a minor in Studio Art (Graphic Design). Throughout her time at UH Mānoa, Carly has been involved in the professional business fraternity Delta Sigma Pi (DSP) where she previously served as Director of Marketing and Senior Vice President. Additionally, she works as a Student Assistant for the Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) focusing on video production. Outside of Shidler, Carly acts as a student host for UH News videos, promoting the wide variety of events and programs happening at UH Mānoa. Embracing a wide range of professional opportunities, Carly has previously interned with PacRim Marketing Group Inc. (dba Vector USA) and Make-A-Wish Hawaii, having the chance to delve into being exposed to a mixture of professional development, marketing growth, and graphic design. For the Fall 2025 semester, Carly serves the Inter-Business Council (IBC) as their Director of Marketing, growing their reach and engagement within the Shidler College of Business and Shidler clubs. Eager and grateful to venture into new experiences, Carly intends to study abroad in Japan during the upcoming Spring 2026 semester. Enabling her to gain new global insights that she is looking forward to bringing back home to Hawaii. As Carly continues her collegiate journey, she is honored to represent the Shidler College of Business as a Shidler Global Leader and thrilled to form new connections through her business and creative endeavors–all while seamlessly intertwining her passions, goals, and love for the community together.
Olivia Zaruba
Majors: Finance
Olivia Zaruba is a Finance major at the Shidler College of Business who is driven by purpose, curiosity, and service. Hailing from the sun-soaked valleys of Arizona, she is the daughter of a Battalion Captain Firefighter and a pediatric nurse practitioner. Whether helping at local fundraisers or observing her parent’s constant acts of courage, Olivia learned early on that leadership begins with compassion and consistency. Now living in Hawaii, Olivia continues to lead with intention and integrity. In addition to her academic responsibilities, she manages operations for a small business, where she hones her skills in communication, organization, and strategic thinking. She remains deeply engaged in her academic and professional communities and is passionate about uplifting others through mentorship and service. Olivia was drawn to Shidler Global Leaders program for its emphasis on character driven leadership and global awareness. In Spring 2026, she intends to study abroad in Florence, Italy. She believes this experience will deepen her understanding of international finance and enrich her perspective as a global citizen. She aspires to become a financial advisor who empowers individuals and communities to build long term lasting security, confidence, and impact through financial literacy. Outside of school and work, Olivia enjoys strength training, writing, and spending quiet afternoons reading at the beach. She values reflection, real connection, and the lifelong journey of becoming. She is always moving forward with grit and grace.
Eric P. Gee
Majors: Finance & International Business, Political Science Minor
Eric Pōmaikaʻi Gee serves on the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents, the governing body of the 10-campus UH system. As a Regent, he is committed to elevating student voices, expanding equitable representation, and advancing the issues that matter most to students. Eric is an Honors student pursuing a double major in Finance and International Business with a minor in Political Science. A third-generation Chinese American born and raised in South Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island, he graduated as valedictorian of Kealakehe High School in 2024. He has held leadership roles at both the county and state levels, serving as inaugural chairperson of the County of Hawaiʻi Youth Commission and treasurer of the Hawaiʻi State Youth Commission, where he helped develop youth policy and advise government leaders. His experience also includes sustainability and education initiatives with Hawaiʻi Green Growth and cultural programming through Traditions Hawaiʻi. As a Villars Institute Fellow, Eric participated in a 2025 expedition to Antarctica as the only American selected for the international mission led by polar explorer Robert Swan. He joined scientists, educators, and young leaders in research activities and live educational broadcasts with classrooms around the world, promoting climate stewardship and raising awareness of Antarctica’s global importance. Eric has been selected for several competitive international leadership programs, including the World Affairs Councils of America Student Scholars Program and the Bloomberg Philanthropy Global Scholars conference in Madrid. He was also featured as one of three Roadtrippers in the PBS documentary series Rethinking Higher Ed, where he engaged higher education leaders and stakeholders in conversations about the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing colleges and universities in the United States.
Samantha Guinto
Majors: Management Information Systems, Marketing, & International Business
Growing up between the island cultures of Central Luzon and Oʻahu, Samantha Guinto learned to navigate change with resilience and curiosity, shaping her belief that leadership begins with empathy and a willingness to learn from others. Raised in a family of entrepreneurs, Samantha spent her childhood watching her parents build and operate a motorcycle business grounded in hard work, integrity, and service. Their example inspired her interest in how business can create opportunity and strengthen communities, leading her to pursue Marketing, Management Information Systems, and International Business at the Shidler College of Business. As a Presidential Scholar, she is passionate about exploring the intersection of business strategy, technology, and global collaboration to address complex, real-world challenges. Her commitment to service extends beyond the classroom. As a Communications & Outreach Intern with the City and County of Honolulu's Office of Climate Change, Sustainability and Resiliency, Samantha develops accessible engagement initiatives to educate residents on climate resilience and sustainability. She also served as Vice President of Community Service for Delta Sigma Pi, leading projects that supported local communities and environmental stewardship, and now serves as Director of Professional Development for Information Technology Management Association, where she connects students with industry professionals and career development opportunities. Across her academic, professional, and leadership experiences, Samantha strives to embody the values of a global citizen by embracing diverse perspectives, fostering meaningful connections, and serving communities with purpose. As a Shidler Global Leader, she hopes to grow alongside a globally minded cohort while preparing for a career that combines marketing, technology, and cross-cultural collaboration to create lasting impact in Hawaiʻi, the Philippines, and beyond.
Oscar Ma
Majors: Finance & Economics
Oscar is a first-generation college student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa pursuing degrees in Finance and Economics. As the son of immigrant parents who opened a small family restaurant, he spent much of his childhood helping behind the counter, where he developed an appreciation for small business and a curiosity about understanding how the world works. These experiences sparked his interest in finance and a desire to better understand how businesses, industries, and markets work. Since joining the Shidler College of Business, Oscar has actively pursued opportunities to deepen his understanding of investing and financial markets. He is a graduate of the AKAMAI Finance Academy, where he developed a foundation in financial analysis, valuation, and investment research. Following the program, he joined AKAMAI Capital, a long/short equity fund, where he contributes to investment research and security analysis while gaining hands-on experience in the investment process. He also served as a Co-Director of the Calvin Shindo Student Venture Fund, supporting student-led venture investing and due diligence efforts. Beyond his academic and professional interests, Oscar is passionate about mentorship and giving back to the communities that have supported his growth. Having benefited from mentors who invested their time, guidance, and belief in him, he hopes to become the same source of support for others. He aspires to be the kind of mentor and leader who helps students navigate challenges, discover opportunities, and achieve goals they may not have thought possible when they first began their journey.
Regine Medeiros
Majors: Accounting & Management
Born in the Philippines and raised in South Kona on Hawaiʻi Island, Regine Medeiros has been shaped by both her Filipino background and the Hawaiian community she grew up in. Through her involvement in hula, cultural service, and her parents’ work as Hawaiian art practitioners, she developed a deep appreciation for Hawaiian culture and the importance of preserving traditions for future generations. These experiences inspired her passion for exploring how business can strengthen communities while honoring cultural identity. Regine is an Honors student at the Shidler College of Business pursuing a double major in Accounting and Management. She serves as Vice President of the Accounting Club after previously serving as Director of Human Resources. She is also the Membership Coordinator and Financial Manager for the Mānoa Scholars Club, an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, and a Peer Advisor at the Mānoa Advising Center. Through these leadership roles, she has developed a passion for mentorship, service, and creating opportunities that empower others to succeed. In recognition of her academic achievement and campus involvement, she received the 2026 Business Night Special Junior Award in Accounting. As a Shidler Global Leader, Regine plans to study abroad during Fall 2027, where she hopes to broaden her perspective on management while supporting her Honors research comparing management practices in Hawaiʻi and another country. Following graduation, she hopes to become a CPA while pursuing opportunities in management and international business. Regine is honored to represent the Shidler College of Business as a Shidler Global Leader and is excited to bring new perspectives back to serve the communities that have shaped her.
Katherine Rogalski
Majors: Accounting & International Business
Katherine is a Shidler Direct Admit student majoring in Accounting, Management Information Systems and International Business. She is working towards obtaining her CPA designations in both the USA and Canada and pursuing a career in forensic accounting. Born and raised in Canada, Katherine is driven by a curiosity about the people, cultures, and perspectives that shape our global community. She believes that meaningful personal and professional growth comes from embracing new experiences and building authentic connections across cultures. She plans to study abroad in Florence, Italy for the Spring 2027 semester, where she’ll experience the world of finance and accounting in the birthplace of modern banking while immersing herself in Italian culture…and food. This experience reflects her broader philosophy of working to live rather than living to work, building a career that enables her to explore the world, cultivate relationships, and appreciate diverse ways of life. Equally important to her personal academic pursuits is her commitment to serving and leading within her professional community. Since her first semester as a freshman, she has been an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, the international honors organization for accounting. By pursuing leadership opportunities each semester and now serving on the chapter's executive board, she has strengthened her leadership, communication, and professional skills while contributing to a community grounded in service, collaboration, and shared goals and values. As a Shidler Global Leader, Katherine aspires to foster environments where others feel welcomed, supported, and empowered, believing that trust, respect, and genuine connection are the foundation of effective leadership. She hopes to carry these values throughout her career and personal life, leaving a positive impact wherever she may go.