Sometimes it seems a very large rift exists between the academic and athletic worlds at the University of Hawaii.
But the figurative wall on Dole Street separating upper and lower campus came down, at least for a couple of hours Thursday morning. Former UH football players Jake Ingram, Mike Lafaele, Miah Ostrowski, Lance Samuseva and Khevin Peoples mingled with College of Education instructors and staff at Wist Hall.
The reason they were there was a man who has always inspired people. On this day he brought them together.
The occasion was the announcement of the Brian Kajiyama Heart of a Warrior scholarship.
Kajiyama is an instructor in the COE Department of Special Education who is working on a doctorate.
He is also part of college football history as the first person with cerebral palsy to serve on a Division I college football coaching staff. His scouting work as a graduate assistant helped UH to a combined record of 23-4 in 2006 and 2007, including an appearance in the Sugar Bowl.
"I don’t think it’s a coincidence those were the two years Brian was around the program," said Jeff Reinebold, the former UH assistant coach who befriended Kajiyama and had the idea that Kajiyama could help the Warriors with his computer and teaching skills. Head coach June Jones (also in attendance Thursday) was convinced, and offered him a spot as a GA.
Reinebold is chairing the scholarship committee and spearheading early funding. He struggled to hold back tears while speaking about Kajiyama and his impact on himself and the football team.
The scholarship, starting in 2016, will go to a UH student from Hawaii who has overcome great personal challenges. In order to keep the scholarship, the student must maintain a 3.0 grade-point-average. Contributions can be made through the June Jones Foundation at P.O. Box 11330, Honolulu, HI 96828.
"I did not just want to hand money to a high school student and say, ‘Here’s some money and good luck,’" Kajiyama said. "There will be a mentoring system, every other month we will meet to make sure the student is doing well. Transitioning to college from high school can be a daunting experience.
"Our purpose here on Earth is to make things a little better for the next generation," he said.
Dean Donald Young spoke of Kajiyama’s determination and conscientiousness as a COE instructor — traits he was known for during his time with the football program as well.
"He’s brought us such joy and wisdom in a way only Brian can do," Young said. "Brian was finally able to get the university to modify access to the building. I tell you, the dean could not do that. Brian loves teaching and helping others."
And, on this day, he brought them together.
