Waiakea High School science teacher Whitney Aragaki on Tuesday was named among the first cohort of 100 “emerging changemakers” selected to participate in the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA program.
The Obama Leaders program is a six-month virtual program that supports and connects emerging leaders in the United States, Africa, Asia-Pacific and Europe through a values-based leadership framework inspired by the ideals and legacy of President and Mrs. Obama.
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of applications, Aragaki was selected to join the program for her innovative cultural and place-based approach to teaching, and is ready to build her skills and expand her impact across public, private and nonprofit sectors, according to a press release.
“We are so proud to see Whitney’s leadership recognized and valued on a national scale given her track record of inspiring her students and peers alike and driving positive change in our communities,” state Department of Education Superintendent Keith Hayashi said in the press release.
Hailing from 37 states, Washington, D.C., American Samoa, Guam and five tribal nations, these Obama Leaders are united by their passion for building a stronger, more sustainable and more inclusive world.
“I am excited to be a part of this inaugural Obama Leaders USA cohort, especially as a classroom teacher,” Aragaki said in the press release. “I believe so deeply in the power of leadership from every seat — that teachers impact both the students they teach and the system we serve. I look to bring our stories and collective wisdom from Waiakea High and HIDOE to the group, and hope to learn about how place uniquely shaped each leader’s journey across the country.”
Aragaki was recently recognized as the 2022 State Teacher of the Year and one of four finalists for the 2022 National Teacher of the Year award. She was also a 2019 and 2021 state finalist for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
As part of the six-month program, Aragaki will convene virtually each week with the United States Obama Leaders cohort for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the foundation’s community.
Aragaki will also have an opportunity to engage with former President Barak Obama, participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the foundation’s global network.