In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are proud to highlight Charles Lum, School Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity.
Lum’s approach to education is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. He lives by a powerful Hawaiian saying, “Mohala i ka wai ka maka o ka pua,” which means, “The flowers blossom because of the water surrounding it.” For him, this wisdom translates into a guiding philosophy for his work with students. Every lesson he plans and every interaction with a student is an opportunity to offer nourishing support.
"Whether it’s sprinkling a little wisdom, doing some weeding or simply complimenting a student’s individuality, I always try to do that which helps them blossom," Charles said.
One of Lum's most meaningful professional moments occurred with a student named Mana. Mana was known for having a difficult relationship with authority, but Lum remained firm and loving. He was proud when Mana graduated, despite having “barely passing” grades. Even more, Lum was moved when Mana’s mother called the following year to say, “You did such a great job with Mana that I’m sending his younger brother to you.”
To Lum's surprise, the younger brother was the complete opposite of Mana—an exemplary student who stayed out of trouble. On graduation day, the younger brother brought Lum outside to his car, where a Marine stood at attention, saluting Lum. It was Mana, now a Marine, returning to thank Lum for his discipline and, more importantly, for believing in him.
"I wear a marine lanyard around my neck to remind me of the important job we have in shaping the lives of our children," Lum said.
Lum honors his Hawaiian heritage by always remembering his mentors and elders. A key piece of advice from one of his mentors, "Keiki – helu ‘ekahi" (children first), continues to guide him in his work. Whether working on OEO cases or engaging with students, Lum asks himself daily, “How will what I do help this student?”
When reflecting on the impact he hopes to make, Charles shares a simple goal to “live aloha.” He hopes to serve students and adults alike with unselfish love, always striving to support others to the best of his ability.
Charles also offers the following advice.
"Be proud of the heritage that is ours and honor that heritage by living your culture," he said. "Asian Americans have persevered so much—never give up. Native Hawaiians come from a heritage of navigators who crossed the Pacific. Keep going—the possibilities are endless. Pacific Islanders are rooted in family—look around. See we are all family, and we embrace and uplift one another."