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Portrait of Jayna-Lyn Akita

Melanie Kauvaka

Coordinator of Student Leadership & Service
Student Leadership & Service

Melanie Kauvaka is a coordinator for the Student Leadership and Service Department and is an alumna of BYU–Hawaii. This university has had her heart from the moment she started here as a student. She took advantage of every opportunity to get involved in student life. From being a member of the BYUH Women's Volleyball team, to being a Club President and working at the Polynesian Cultural Center, it was the unique memories made as a student, that motivated her to want to return as a full-time staff member on campus.

Melanie graduated with a Bachelor of Science in exercise sports and science and a minor in coaching. After graduating in 2014, she pursued a teaching license in the Department of Education and worked for the YMCA of Honolulu as an adolescent treatment counselor. Melanie's journey back to BYUH is a story of faith and trust in the Lord. She will always refer to this job as her "dream job" and a true blessing from Heavenly Father.

Melanie is the youngest of three siblings who are all graduates of BYUH. She served her mission in Honduras, Tegucigalpa and married her eternal companion, Masi Kauvaka in the Laie, Hawaii Temple.