Michael Chun, Ph.D., P.E.
Former President, The Kamehameha Schools
Dr. Michael Chun, a 1961 graduate of The Kamehameha School for Boys, earned his undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering at Kansas University while on a football scholarship. Returning home after graduation, Dr. Chun began his professional engineering career with the State Highways Division. That engagement was short lived, however, interrupted by an opportunity to continue his education at the University of Hawai`i at Manoa (UHM) where he earned his Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering, and developed an interest in academia as a professional goal. Acknowledging the need for a doctoral degree for entry into academia, Dr. Chun continued his graduate studies back at Kansas University where he earned his PhD in Environmental Health Engineering in 1970. Dr. Chun’s research during his graduate studies focused on water and wastewater treatment, in particular, biological treatment systems. After earning his PhD, Dr. Chun returned to UHM, joining the faculty of the School of Public Health where he taught graduate courses in both the School of Public Health and the College of Engineering. During his tenure at the University, Dr. Chun’s research interest shifted to broader environmental and community health issues, which took him throughout the Pacific and Southeast Asia
After a decade in academia, Dr. Chun served as Chief Engineer of the City and County of Honolulu for four years, followed by private practice with the firm of Park Engineering. In 1988, Dr. Chun was the first Native Hawaiian and alumnus to be appointed President of The Kamehameha Schools, serving his alma mater for 24 years in that capacity. While the transition to elementary and secondary education was a major career shift, Dr. Chun believes he was able to successfully transition to this new role because of his experience and education in engineering, which helped him develop thinking and communication skills that are analytical, objective, organized, and clear. Dr. Chun firmly believes the skill sets taught and used in the study and practice of engineering help build a strong foundation for pursuing careers in other professions, such as law, medicine and business, to name a few.
After retirement from Kamehameha, Dr. Chun remained active in community and business affairs, serving on numerous voluntary and corporate boards. Today, Dr. Chun serves on the boards of our own Society of Native Hawaiian Engineers, as well as the YMCA of Honolulu, Polynesian Voyaging Society, Akaka Foundation for Tropical Forests, Hawai’i Preparatory Academy, Partners in Development Foundation, USS Missouri Memorial Association and Lunalilo Home. While board work keeps Dr. Chun fully engaged, he still creates time to work his “ranch” in Waimea on Hawai`i Island, where he raises a few livestock, maintains an assortment of fruit trees and cultivates a small plot of kalo and other native edibles.
Reflecting on his career, Dr. Chun recognizes his initial foray into engineering was largely influenced by pedagogical advice based on his academic performance in math and science during high school. However, once he became immersed in his education and career, he was supported by numerous mentors, colleagues, family and friends. Educators who believed in him, who helped him develop the skills he needed to be successful, and who reminded him to find the good in himself. Employers who took a chance on him and trusted in his ability to grow and commit to service. Family and friends who stood with him during both the good times and the tough times. Dr. Chun believes that all of our journeys are intertwined; that our successes are only a reflection of those of others; and that there are no singular accomplishments, only contributions for the greater good. That is how Dr. Chun describes his journey.
As keynote speaker at the first gathering of Native Hawaiian engineers several years ago, Dr. Chun was inspired and energized by the students, faculty and practitioners and their collective stories of accomplishments and contributions to the science and practice of engineering. His message then and now is simply this: we must retain and maintain our identity as Hawaiians. This means knowing our culture, history and language, for sure. However, this is not enough. Our Hawaiian identity includes much more, beginning with the values of our kupuna to seek excellence and be expert; to expand knowledge and explore the unknown; to engage globally and lead fearlessly; to dream boldly and aim high. If we are truly committed to raising the Lahui, Hawaiians need to be involved in every aspect of global society. As professionals and leaders, we need to pursue our dreams while knowing and carrying our Hawaiian identity, so the world knows that our achievements come because we are Hawaiian, and not despite being Hawaiian.
When asked about his life philosophy, Dr. Chun replied simply:
Align your heart with Ke Akua.
Live your life in service.
Integrity counts.