BYU-Hawaii President Announces Cancer Diagnosis, Will Continue to Serve During Treatment
LAIE, Hawaii – BYU-Hawaii President John S.K. Kauwe III announced to students and employees on May 7, 2024, that he has been diagnosed with cancer and will begin treatment. Despite the diagnosis, President Kauwe intends to continue serving as president of the university, emphasizing the strength of the institution’s leadership and strategic plan.
In a message delivered during a devotional, President kauwe encouraged students to “please take charge of your testimony, strengthen it, and you will have great joy in this life, even through trials.” He expressed confidence in the university’s ability to maintain its progress under the direction of its board of trustees – led by President Russell M. Nelson, with Presidents Dallin H. Oaks and Henry B. Eyring serving as vice chairs – and the capable President’s Council, faculty, and staff.
BYU-Hawaii has a clearly defined strategic plan developed over the last five years,under the board’s guidance,and the university’s leadership is prepared to execute it,President Kauwe stated. He emphasized the university’s focus on preparing students according to prophetically identified priorities will continue uninterrupted during his treatment.
President Kauwe requested that campus interactions remain focused on the positive experiences within the BYU-Hawaii community, encouraging students and employees to share good news and stories of service. He and Sister Monica Kauwe where photographed interacting with students following the devotional.
