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The SWRK students engaged in protocol practice and visit preparation.
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Day 2 focused on a service-learning visit.
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The cultural immersion orientation events ended with a group reflection.
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The group gathered for a pau hana photo.
The HPU School of Social Work (SWRK) BSW, MSW, and faculty members completed the Fall 2025 CIRCELS (Culturally Immersive Reciprocal Community-Engaged Learning and Service) events as part of the academic year orientation on Friday, September 5 and Saturday, September 6.
Day 1 focused on protocol practice and visit preparation. Students learned about the importance of cultural protocol and cultural humility through a lecture by Assistant Professor Tammy Martin, Ph.D.—essential values for future social workers entering diverse communities. Activities included making ti-leaf leis, preparing hoʻokupu (offerings), and practicing oli, giving students, faculty, and staff direct experiences in cultural practices rooted in respect and reciprocity.
Day 2 was a service-learning visit to the ʻĀina Wellness Academy (AWA) in Makiki Valley, a long-term community partner of SWRK. AWA is a nonprofit organization established to promote and preserve Native Hawaiian cultural practices and knowledge, while serving as custodians of Maunalaha Valley. According to Aunty Mahealani Kawaʻa, Executive Director of AWA, the organization is “committed to preserve, protect, and perpetuate Hawaiʻi’s natural resources and its cultural integrity.” AWA is dedicated to restoring Native Hawaiian approaches to health and well-being by creating a healing space that fosters deep connections between people, culture, and ʻāina (land). Participants spent several hours practicing aloha ʻāina (love for the land) and mālama ʻāina (care for the land) through hands-on work, supporting AWA’s mission of integrating land stewardship with holistic wellness.
The CIRCELS events concluded with a group reflection. Many participants expressed a deeper understanding of the relationship between cultural humility, community engagement, and the kuleana (individual and collective responsibility) of social workers in Hawaiʻi.
