The honorees include Jessica dos Santos, Denise Mazurik, Janyce Omura, Richard Ornellas and ʻĪmaikalani Winchester.

Representative Amy Perruso, Vice-Chair of the PACE Commission, led the effort to recognize the honorees.

Further information regarding the honorees can be found below:

Jessica dos Santos has served as a social studies teacher at Hawaiʻi Technology Academy since 2012. She encourages her students to develop critical analysis, argument-building, and real-world problem-solving skills while also developing their own perspectives through inquiry-based learning.

Denise Mazurik has been a Global Scholars Teacher at Waiākea Intermediate School since 2020. She was a driving force behind creation of the school’s innovative Global Scholars Program which provides students with opportunities to explore and address critical global issues.

Janyce Omura is a graduate of Maui High School who returned to her alma mater as a teacher. In addition to her work in the classroom, Omura supports students by serving as an advisor for numerous school-related clubs including the Pacific & Asian Affairs Council and the Interact club.

Richard Ornellas has been at Molokaʻi High School since 2008. He serves on the Youth Civil Rights Committee and takes a leadership role organizing the Molokaʻi Youth Summit. He is also a long-standing member and chair of the School Community Council which fosters a strong connection between the school and its community.

ʻĪmaikalani Winchester has been a high school social studies teacher at Hālau Kū Māna Public Charter School for more than 20 years. He emphasizes traditional Native Hawaiian practices and engages his students in contemporary issues empowering them to become advocates in their own communities.