My name is Shelley Akiona, and I’d like to share a bit on my personal and professional background.  I am an HR professional with 30+ years of experience in business and human resources. I have worked in higher education administration and Human Resources for eighteen years.  My prior 16 years of professional experience is in law office management and civil litigation case management.

I want to encourage you.  If you are a student who is also working, caring for a family, while returning to school to continue your education, you can succeed! 

You can meet the educational goals you are setting for yourself!  How do I know?  Because when I was 40, I returned to college. 

Many of my classes were at night, online, or hybrid.  I was working, raising children, and studying.  I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, and two years later I enrolled in a graduate program at Drexel University.  I was awarded my Master’s Degree in Human Resources Development.

On a personal note, my husband, Tracey and I have ten adult children, grandchildren not included!  In my extra time, I assist my husband, a local pastor. I support him in meeting the needs of our local community.   I was born and raised in Hawaii, and I am a retired a Polynesian instructor and producer and have partnered with Hawaii performing artists and co-produce concerts.  We have produced shows on the East and West Coast.  

So yes!  I believe in the opportunities online education presents for the busy and ambitious adult learner.  The online learning environment provided me the opportunity to receive a good education to advance my career while working full-time, raising children, and being a positive contributor to my family, friends and community.  

I believe in you and your success!  Let’s get busy and I’ll see you online!

Shelley Akiona, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Adjunct Business  Professor

Cuesta College