Eloise Luzader, the cherished head cashier of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Gateway House café, retired on November 30, after nearly three decades of service at 95 years old.
“I have mixed emotions,” said Luzader. “I’m happy and I’m sad because I’m going to miss the students. Interacting with them was my thing to keep me young.”
Luzader is famous for greeting students and other Gateway Café patrons with a bright smile, and as the unofficial Mānoa matchmaker, with three successful couplings. She has a tight-knit relationship with the students, and feels so much love for them that she considers them her “grandbabies.” Because of this love, Luzader has no trouble remembering the names of thousands of students, and making them feel seen and cared for.
- Related UH News story: Cherished 95-year-old Gateway Cafe head cashier to retire, October 27, 2023
The impact of Luzader’s love is everlasting. Alumna Taylor Hiraga, who attended UH Mānoa from 2013 to 2016, said that Eloise was the most memorable part of her time as a student. Now a pharmacist in Maui, she dedicated time each month to visit Luzader with a lei and appreciation for her compassion.
“She always put a smile on my face, always said hello, always hugged me. She’s pretty much family to me now,” said Hiraga. “Here at Gateway Café, Aunty Eloise is a staple—she’s the face of Gateway Café and she’s always been for the last 30 years. I think we’re all really going to miss her.”
Take care [of] yourself. Be good, stay out of trouble. Keep smiling and study hard.
—Luzader to her “grandbabies”
Luzader was recognized for her hard work, dedication and warmth for Gateway Café patrons. Brett Lad, CEO of Sodexo Campus, North America, presented the “Spirit of THX :)” award over a Zoom call, honoring Luzader for sharing the spirit of Aloha with the UH Mānoa community. Honolulu Councilmember Matt Weyer presented a certificate on behalf of the Honolulu City Council to thank her for her almost 30 years of service and wish her a happy retirement.
“We really just wanted to mahalo her for her nearly 30 years of service,” said Weyer. “I remember her when I was at UH 15 years ago, and just the warmth and aloha she always shared with all of us, with all of the students.”
During her retirement, Luzader plans to volunteer wherever her help is needed and return to her favorite activities, Zumba and hula. She also guarantees that students are still in her plans.
“I’ll come back to visit if I get bored, just to have the interaction with them. I love everybody—I love you all,” said Luzader. “Take care [of] yourself. Be good, stay out of trouble. Keep smiling and study hard.”
