BYU-Hawaii President John SK Kauwe III has completed cancer treatment and is scheduled to return on July 1, 2026, according to a BYU-Hawaii news release.
President Kauwe was granted temporary leave in December 2025 to focus on his health during chemotherapy and radiation treatment for rectal cancer.
In a social media post on May 4, President Kauwe reported that recent imaging, physical exams, tissue biopsies, and blood tests revealed no detectable cancer in his body.
Although he has completed chemotherapy and radiation treatment, he writes, “I am still suffering from significant side effects. Doctors expect most of these to resolve in a few months, but some may take longer.”
President Kauwe thanked the medical team and all those who prayed and supported him and his family. “Mahalo piha (deep respect) for standing with us,” he said. “We love you and wish you continued success and joy. We look forward to returning to full service at BYU-Hawaii when the time is right.”
Following President Kauwe’s announcement of his leave of absence, President R. Kelly Hawes, then assistant to the Secretary of the Church Board of Education, was appointed acting president of BYU-Hawaii.
In a May 13 news release, BYU-Hawaii announced that Chancellor Hawes has been appointed vice provost for academics, also effective July 1, in anticipation of President Kauwe’s expected return.
President Kauwe said he is deeply grateful for what President Hawes and his wife, Sister Connie Hawes, have done to support BYU-Hawaii while serving as acting president. “I am pleased that he will join us to lead the academic community as we build on the strong foundation that has brought us this far and continue to advance this important initiative,” President Kauwe said in a news release.
President Hawes began his career at CES in 1984 as a seminary and religious institute teacher and served as assistant to the commissioner of church education from 2018 to 2025.
Chancellor Hawes takes over the position from Isaiah Walker, who will return to academic work and teaching in the BYU Hawaii School of Culture, Language, and Performing Arts.
During his five years as vice president for academic affairs, Walker led the university in many initiatives that greatly benefited students, President Kauwe said.
“I love him and am deeply grateful for his loyal and exemplary service. He is loved and respected by CES leadership and the Board of Directors, who frequently praise his leadership for its positive impact on student success and the mission of this university. His heart is always with our students, and we look forward to having him back in the classroom this fall.”
