Two members of the Dagdag family will participate in University of Hawaiʻi Maui College’s commencement ceremonies on May 9. Seanna-Victoria and her father Frederick have earned associate in arts degrees in liberal arts. In addition, Seanna-Victoria’s sister and Frederick’s daughter Landyn-Angelie, an early college student and Maui High School (MHS) class of 2024 graduating student, has earned her nursing assistant certification.
The learning legacy at UH Maui College spans two generations in a family of nurses, two degrees and multiple program certificates.
Seanna-Victoria Dagdag, daughter
“Seanna-Victoria, a 2022 MHS graduate, crossed my path during our high school outreach for fall registration when she was a senior. She expressed her ambition to become a pharmacist, and her dedication was evident in her academic achievements,” said Eri Nomura, UH Maui College academic counselor. “Following graduation, she seized the opportunity to obtain the Good Jobs Hawaiʻi pharmacy tech certification during the summer. This experience, I believe, led her to reconsider her career path, ultimately deciding to pursue nursing.”
Since earning her certified pharmacy technician national certification in spring 2022, Seanna-Victoria has been working at a CVS Pharmacy at Target. After graduating with her associate’s degree, she will complete her prerequisites and plans to apply for the UH Maui College nursing program in January 2025.
“Walking across the stage with my father beside me fills me with profound gratitude for his guidance, unwavering support, and countless lessons. His pursuit of education showcases his commitment to continuous learning. Graduating together is more than receiving diplomas; it’s about celebrating our shared journey and the endless possibilities ahead,” said Seanna-Victoria. “The University of Hawaiʻi Maui College has been pivotal in my academic growth, expanding my horizons and nurturing my personal development. Faculty dedication guided me, instilling purpose and pride, emphasizing that learning never ceases. I’m immensely grateful for the university’s role in shaping who I am today, laying the foundation for a lifetime of growth and discovery.”
Frederick Dagdag, father
Frederick completed his associate’s degree in liberal arts in fall 2023. He accepted an automatic admission offer, and is on track to earn his bachelor’s degree through UH West Oʻahu as a public administration, health care administration major. Previously, he graduated from the licensed practical nursing program and completed his certificate in competence in information security through Good Jobs Hawaiʻi.
“I reflect on the semesters of determination and dedication as I graduate from Maui College with an associate degree in liberal arts and a CO in information security. Returning to school to continue my education alongside my daughter, I feel a deep sense of personal accomplishment. This milestone is not only about academic achievement, but also about resilience and the pursuit of lifelong learning,“ Frederick said.
“Maui College has given me the opportunity to earn an education while being close to home. In addition, UH Maui has provided me with numerous resources and a supportive community that have helped me, and countless others, to move forward in our educational accomplishments.”
Check out more stories of our UH spring graduates
Frederick added, “Sharing this moment with my daughter, who is also earning her associate degree in liberal arts, adds an extra sense of pride and joy. As we both step onto the stage together, we represent the spirit of determination and the belief that learning is a journey with no age limits.”
—By Valerie Matsunaga
