BYU–Hawaii students embrace new acting president with open arms
BYU–Hawaii students and faculty were treated to a powerful message from their new acting president, R. Kelly Haws, during the first devotional of the new semester on January 13th. President Haws, who is also the assistant to the commissioner of the Church Educational System and secretary to the BYU–Hawaii Board of Trustees, shared his love and testimony of the Savior and His restored Church, emphasizing the importance of listening to the Lord's guidance.
President Haws' appointment comes as a result of President John S.K. Kauwe III's temporary leave of absence to continue treatment for cancer. President Kauwe, who has been a beloved leader at BYU–Hawaii, will continue to receive updates and reports on the university through regular stewardship meetings with President Haws. This transition ensures the university's smooth operation and continuity of leadership.
During the devotional, Elder Clark G. Gilbert, the Church commissioner of education and a General Authority Seventy, introduced President Haws, highlighting his extensive experience with BYU–Hawaii. Elder Gilbert noted that President Haws has been a key part of on-site meetings, past inaugurations, and graduation ceremonies, and has contributed significantly to the university's strategic planning and budgeting.
President Haws' relationship with President Kauwe is also a source of strength. They have a long, trusted partnership, and President Kauwe will remain an integral part of the university's leadership through their regular meetings. This unity of leadership is a testament to the university's commitment to its students and mission.
The devotional also featured a heartwarming story of President and Sister Haws' arrival in Honolulu, where they were greeted by two enthusiastic BYU–Hawaii students, Alge Martis and Mika Konno. This encounter highlighted the university's vibrant community and the impact of its students.
President Haws shared a powerful testimony about the importance of responding to the Lord's nudges. He recounted how Martis, a student from Curacao, shifted his plans to attend BYU–Hawaii after feeling the Lord's prompting. This story emphasized the idea that when we follow the Lord's guidance, miracles can and will happen.
Sister Haws, in her brief remarks, emphasized the importance of prayer. She shared a personal experience of listening to a trusted individual's prayer, which revealed the depth of connection with Heavenly Father. She encouraged listeners to pray openly and daily to Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ, promising that they will begin to see the blessings He sends their way.
The devotional concluded with an outpouring of love and support for President Kauwe and his family. Elder Gilbert and President and Sister Haws expressed their admiration for President Kauwe's family and their contributions to the university. President Haws emphasized the university's gratitude for President Kauwe's leadership and love for the students and faculty.
In closing, the devotional left a lasting impression on the BYU–Hawaii community, emphasizing the importance of unity, faith, and the power of listening to the Lord's guidance.
