Greg Chun, executive director of Maunakea stewardship at the University of Hawaiʻi, recognizes the magnitude of his role.
“As we know Maunakea is very significant in Hawaiian culture as the piko (belly button) of life itself,” said Chun. “It is also a very special physical environmental monument because of its characteristics.”
Maunakea is not only sacred to many Native Hawaiians and non-Native Hawaiians, it is also arguably the best place in the world for astronomy. Chun oversees UH programs that protect and care for Maunakea’s natural and cultural resources, along with educational activities. In addition to supporting world-class research, he is also responsible for managing public activities on the mountain.
“I remember the first time I was up there in the evening,” Chun said. “Standing outside of the observatory and looking up, you literally felt you could reach up and touch the stars.”
Education provides opportunities
Chun earned his bachelor of arts in psychology from UH Hilo before pursuing his master’s and PhD at UH Mānoa. He said education provides students with unique opportunities.
“Education in general gives you the opportunity to broaden yourself and bring more knowledge, tools and skills into whatever endeavor you do,” said Chun.
He also highlighted the importance of staying connected to the UH community because of its broader impact on Hawaiʻi.
“The university as we all know is an extremely important organization in the state because of the education, research and preparation we do to serve our community in different ways,” Chun said. “I also think the university represents a portal to think about the future and what the future of our state could be.”
Learn more about other outstanding UH Alumni.
