Three miles separate Chaminade University in Kaimuki from President Lynn Babington’s home in Kahala. Instead of driving, Babington walks to work. It’s a way for her to unwind, catch up on phone calls, and listen to the news, all while getting in a workout.
Chaminade President Lynn Babington, Ph.D., often walks to campus.
“I started walking to campus during the COVID lockdown for exercise,” explains Babington. “I realized it wasn’t bad! Although at the beginning, people would honk their horns and call out, ‘Dr. Babington! President Lynn! Do you need a ride?’”
That’s the kind of close-knit community that Babington created among the university’s 2,500 students. She leads with kindness, honesty, and support so students feel comfortable with her and know they can go to her for help when they need it.
“Since Chaminade is small, I have the privilege of mentoring students and developing a relationship with them,” says Babington. “You don’t get lost here. We notice when you’re not in class or if you’re distracted. We care about our students, which makes it a more enriching environment.”
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Babington was drawn to the aloha spirit of Chaminade and Hawaii. The university’s commitments of moral character, community, and service align with Babington’s own principles.
“I’ve always been focused on helping people live their very best,” says Babing- ton, who started her career as a nurse. “When I was taking care of patients, I helped people achieve their highest level of wellness. And it’s not that different from my role as college president – I’m providing the environment and resources so that our students achieve their academic goals.”
Guiding students and supporting their successes has been one of the most rewarding parts of Babington’s job. She knows the transition to college can be difficult for young adults and she wants to help them feel a sense of community.
Babington chats with Chaminade students. From left: Kameron Arizumi, Christian Raquepo, and Zoe Morioka.
“That’s what human beings need – feeling like we belong, so we can give back and be genuine in the work we do,” she says. “Education is a great equalizer. We all have the capacity to learn and contribute.”
Babington is leading by example through mentoring and giving back. She found her community by volunteering, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with her family. Since moving to Hawaii seven years ago, Babington has witnessed the family-oriented principles of the islands and hopes to extend that feeling of ohana to campus.
“Having that sense of community shapes how you feel about life every day,” she says.
Images by Romeo Collado
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