Kakkala “Gopal” Gopalakrishnan is a professor of oceanography at Honolulu Community College. Students and peers praise his warm and caring personality, deep commitment to community service, unfailing devotion to teaching and fine sense of humor. While this award requires at least 3 nominations, Gopalakrishnan received accolades from 37 individuals. He is greatly appreciated by the oceanography program and the Honolulu CC family.

Gopalakrishnan has devoted 27 years to education after obtaining his doctorate from the University of California’s Scripps Institute of Oceanography. His classroom has been enhanced by his direct insights, gained through extensive field experience. Remodeling and technological modernization of his classroom came through significant grants that Gopalakrishnan obtained.

He has shown consistent commitment and dedication to his students, both within and outside the classroom. He has assisted many of them in their various career choices. “This humble man and exceptional teacher shares with students a keen knowledge of and fascination with his discipline, engaging students and inspiring them in their academic and career pursuits,” writes one supporter.