UH Hilo Chancellor Highlights Importance of Hawaiian Language

Bonnie D. Irwin emphasizes the cultural and personal value of preserving 'olelo Hawai'i.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In her monthly column, University of Hawaii at Hilo Chancellor Bonnie D. Irwin discusses the significance of language preservation, particularly for the Hawaiian language. She reflects on her own language learning journey and the vital role that the Ka Haka 'Ula o Ke'elikolani College of Hawaiian Language plays in reviving and normalizing 'olelo Hawai'i. Irwin underscores the existential importance of the Hawaiian language for Native Hawaiians and the broader cultural benefits of maintaining linguistic diversity.

Why it matters

Language preservation is crucial for maintaining cultural identity and values, especially for indigenous communities like Native Hawaiians. Irwin's column highlights the unique role that UH Hilo's Hawaiian language college plays in strengthening the pathway for Hawaiian language education and advocacy, which helps ensure a bright future for 'olelo Hawai'i.

The details

In her column, Irwin reflects on her own language learning journey, starting with Spanish lessons in grade school and continuing to learn other languages like Portuguese, French, German, and Arabic. She emphasizes the importance of regularly using languages to retain proficiency, and how learning the languages of others allows for better communication and respect. For Native Hawaiians, Irwin notes that learning 'olelo Hawai'i is of existential importance, as certain terms and values do not resonate in any other language. She praises the work of the Ka Haka 'Ula o Ke'elikolani College of Hawaiian Language at UH Hilo, which is devoted to reviving and normalizing the Hawaiian language, as well as helping other indigenous cultures preserve their own languages.

  • Irwin has been the chancellor of the University of Hawaii at Hilo since an unspecified date.

The players

Bonnie D. Irwin

The chancellor of the University of Hawaii at Hilo, who writes a monthly column for the Tribune-Herald.

Ka Haka 'Ula o Ke'elikolani College of Hawaiian Language

A college at the University of Hawaii at Hilo that is devoted to reviving and normalizing the Hawaiian language, as well as helping other indigenous cultures preserve their own languages.

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What they’re saying

“Words matter because they are meant to express thoughts, and if we wish to communicate clearly and effectively, we need to use the right words in the right context.”

— Bonnie D. Irwin, Chancellor, University of Hawaii at Hilo (hawaiitribune-herald.com)

“Learning the language and then flexing those linguistic muscles regularly anchors people in their cultural identity. It can instill pride, preserve cultural values, and strengthen communities.”

— Bonnie D. Irwin, Chancellor, University of Hawaii at Hilo (hawaiitribune-herald.com)

What’s next

Irwin plans to continue learning and practicing 'olelo Hawai'i, and she encourages others to do the same in order to help preserve the Hawaiian language and culture.

The takeaway

Irwin's column underscores the vital importance of language preservation, particularly for indigenous cultures like Native Hawaiians. Her personal journey and advocacy for the work of the Ka Haka 'Ula o Ke'elikolani College of Hawaiian Language highlight the transformative impact that dedicated language education and normalization can have on strengthening cultural identity and values.