HPU AND FIRST HAWAIIAN BANK HOST SPEED NETWORKING EVENT

This November, HPU and First Hawaiian Bank (FHB) partnered to host a speed networking event for students in the College of Business (COB) and members of Delta Mu Delta (DMD), an international business honor society that hosts various networking opportunities throughout the academic year. 

Held at FHB’s downtown headquarters on Bishop Street, the event welcomed HPU’s COB students to Hawai’i’s tallest building for an opportunity to engage with 20 bank employees from departments such as corporate banking, private banking, wealth advisory, human resources, and more. Facilitated by Diana Gabonia, SHRM-CP, and COB faculty member Leslie Blood, J.D., M.B.A., the event encouraged students to explore career pathways while honing their networking skills.  

“At HPU, we really strive to create meaningful connections between our students and the professional world, and this event exemplifies that mission," Blood said. “Seeing our students engage with accomplished professionals at First Hawaiian Bank and hearing the exchange of ideas and advice was truly inspiring. It’s partnerships like this in Delta Mu Delta that enrich our students’ educational journey and prepare them for successful careers.” 

Attendees rotated every 20 minutes between meeting with professionals, gaining valuable insights and connections along the way. FHB provided pupus and branded swag, while their employees stayed afterward to share additional advice with COB students. 

DMD is an honor society that recognizes academic excellence in business education. Originally chartered at HPU in 2003, the society was recently relaunched under the guidance of faculty advisor Blood. Under its new charter there is a strong emphasis on inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging. Membership in the DMD Delta Iota Chapter is an academic distinction, with undergraduate and graduate students invited based on high GPA standards.  

For more information about Delta Mu Delta at HPU, click here.