The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo’s Vulcan Booster Club (VBC) is one of the main entities that student-athletes rely on through unpredictable times. Although Vulcan athletic seasons carry many unknowns going into the new school year, the VBC remains steadfast in supporting the UH Hilo Athletics Department in a variety of ways. New leaders were recently appointed to help lead the Vulcans into a challenging new year.
During the VBC’s first meeting of the 2020–21 year on September 4, Joe Marsh, who has completed his two-year term as president but will remain on the board, stepped down and Vice President Kapena Lum assumed the top position. Additional new appointments include Keene Fujinaka as the next vice president and Kona Moran as the incoming treasurer.
“I am grateful for the tremendous team of supporters and community leaders who serve on our Vulcan Booster Club Board,” Lum said. “It is our goal to work closely with the coaches and Vulcan athletic administrators in the coming year to face the challenges that lie ahead together. To our student-athletes, continue to work hard and know that we and the entire community are behind you. Most importantly, stay safe, stay healthy and stay hungry.”
Both Lum and Marsh are former Vulcan basketball players and UH Hilo graduates. Lum was a member of the 1999 and 2000 squads, playing on the first team that Jeff Law coached. Marsh was a part of the 2005 UH Hilo team that won an NCAA tournament game for the first time in school history.
“These past two years serving as the president was a great honor and an experience I will always cherish,” Marsh said. “I am pleased that we were able to establish the Vulcan Legacy Award program and complete many other projects. I know that Kapena will continue to lead our club with the same passion and excitement I leave with. I look forward to supporting him in all of his efforts and want to personally thank all the team for their countless hours of unwavering support.”
“Even in these uncertain times, I am excited for the upcoming year and beyond because of the leadership and commitment of our Vulcan Booster Club,” added UH Hilo athletic director Patrick Guillen. “The Board of Directors give so much of their time and talents to benefit our student-athletes and program. I honestly cannot accurately put into words the gratitude I have for them and the impact they are making.”
