By: Joanne R. Loos

“Equity, care, and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues—this was Dr. John Casken.“
– Professor Alice Tse, who worked with Dr. Casken for more than 30 years. 

Dr. John Casken served at the University of Hawaii at Manoa (UH Manoa) for decades. At the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene (SONDH), his roles included Chair, Associate Specialist, and former Director of International Health. He was a force of compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to his students and colleagues. Known for his ability to challenge the status quo while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, Dr. Casken left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

For decades, his unique teaching methods, deep knowledge, and genuine care shaped the lives of students and colleagues alike. Whether he was championing equity, mentoring future leaders, or finding joy in small, personal connections, Dr. Casken had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. The Faculty Senate at UH Manoa passed a memorial resolution in his honor, and the University of Hawaii Professional Assembly paid tribute through a touching story.  

Here, we present a collection of reflections from nursing students, colleagues, and friends whose lives he touched. These heartfelt accounts offer a glimpse into the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every individual.

 Who Was Dr. Casken?

Friends and colleagues described Dr. Casken in many ways, but the recurring themes were his kindness, wisdom, and deep compassion.

“Caring and invaluable.“ – Dr. Tse

“Kind, open, giving.“ – Joseph Peters, former colleague who worked with Dr. Casken on instructional design

“Thoughtful, wise, inquisitive.” – Senior Practice Director & Dental Sealant Program Director Hawaii Keiki: Healthy & Ready to Learn Deborah Mattheus, colleague and friend

“Passionate and unique.” – Emily Krause, student

First Impressions

Dr. Casken made a unique first impression on everyone he met, but it didn’t take long for people to see the depth of his kindness, his sharp sense of humor, and his genuine dedication to helping others grow. 

“I first met Dr. Casken as a graduate student in the MS Advanced Population Health Nursing (APHN) Program. He had a truly unorthodox way of teaching unlike any other professor of nursing, a way that was both confounding and liberating. There was never a ‘right’ answer or a ‘right’ way about his learning activities (This is a hard reality for a lot of nurses to swallow, as many of us are accustomed to very succinct and practiced ‘exactness’ in how we approach problems and solutions). Rather, he gave his students a lot of leeway to explore topics and solve problems in innovative ways, ways that excited them,” says Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Nursing, Gary Glauberman, Dr. Casken’s former student turned mentee and colleague. “As his colleague, I recognized the joy that he had in his approach to teaching (and even committee work!). In the decade that we worked together, Dr. Casken was a perennial favorite among many of our graduate nursing students because of his truly unique approach to education, and of course, his sly humor.”

“I was intimidated by his depth of knowledge but came to see his constant questioning as a way to make us all better.” – Dr. Mattheus

“He had a sense of humor and was super nice; nothing ever changed about that.” – Advanced Population Health Nurse Melveen Camba, former student and mentee

Contributions and Achievements

Dr. Casken’s leadership extended beyond the classroom. His work with the study abroad program, the Faculty Senate, and his advocacy for students left a lasting legacy.

“He brought a unique perspective, especially in bridging health and policy while working with Indigenous communities.” – Assistant Professor and DEIB Director Donna-Marie Palakiko, former student turned colleague

“Dr. Casken’s unorthodox teaching challenged us to think differently, fostering creativity and innovation.” – Dr. Glauberman

“He made the school feel like a family, organizing events and fostering connections.” – Peters

“I thought he was very nice. He always waved hello when I walked by his office. Impression did not change. He always chatted with me in the mornings when I came in to work when he was Department Chair.” – Administrative Officer Melanie Cheung, colleague for five years

Memories and Moments

Dr. Casken’s thoughtfulness shone in the little things, whether it was a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or simply being present for others.

“Every Christmas, he labored to make the most delicious homemade lilikoi butter. You knew he put so much heart into it.” – Undergraduate Program Advisor Jennica Salazar, colleague

“I remember his personalized recorded responses to assignments—it made me feel so valued as a student.” – Krause

 “He welcomed me into his home, shared stories about his garden, and invited me back.” – Peters

“John’s hard work, commitment to transparency, open communication, and expertise in academia guided the department in a transitional time, especially as I transitioned from interim to permanent dean.” – Dean Clementina Ceria-Ulep, colleague

“As the chair of Study Abroad, I remember having a conversation with him about being a part of this effort. He was very passionate and encouraged my participation post-tenure.” – Dr. Palakiko 

“His hunger strike in front of Hawaii Hall [ in 1999 in support of keeping the School of Public health open].” – Dr. Tse 

“My favorite memory with Dr. Casken is just talking about life in general.  He shared about his work on the Big Island.  I respect him and I enjoyed reading and listening to all his “comments back” and feedback from assignments.” – Camba

The Values He Lived By

“John stood for equity and support for students.” – Dr. Tse

“He lived by compassion, care, and a fierce belief in doing what’s right.” – Dr. Palakiko

“John always made a personal and not just a professional connection with me… His selflessness and honesty made him a powerful advocate for what was best for the school and its students.” – Dr. Mattheus

“He always showed appreciation for what everyone does and inspired them to keep doing great work.” – Salazar

Lessons Learned

Dr. Casken left behind not only memories but also wisdom that his colleagues and students will carry forward in their own lives. These are the lasting lessons Dr. Casken instilled in them. 

“Be true to yourself and be confident… Think outside the box and get out of your comfort zone.” – Camba

“Always foster relationships with others.” – Peters

A Legacy of Care

“What I will always remember and admire about you, John, is your staunch support of the faculty and staff, and your love of teaching and your students.” – Dean Ceria-Ulep

“He made everyone feel appreciated and safe.” – Peters

“He always asked about my kids—family came first for him.” – Cheung

“I miss passing his door in Webster Hall—it’s an obvious void.” – Dr. Mattheus

Remembering John and Parting Words

The heartfelt reflections of those who knew Dr. Casken best paint a vivid picture of the remarkable life he lived and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. How would Dr. Casken want to be remembered? 

“He would want to be remembered for his passion, kindness, and support for others.” – Dr. Palakiko

“Enjoy life and be kind.” – Salazar

“I will miss you, and I am sure our colleagues, staff, and students will, too.” – Dean Ceria-Ulep