Mary Kunmi Yu Danico

Mary Kunmi Yu Danico serves as Professor and Academic Advisor in the Ethnic Studies program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, concurrently directing the Center for Oral History. Based in George Hall 338, she is contactable at (808) 956-6963 or myu@hawaii.edu.

Her academic foundation includes a PhD in Sociology from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (1998).

Professor Danico's research examines the intersectionality of ethnic identity, gender/sexuality, social class, community formation, family dynamics, generational differences, and social justice through anti-racist frameworks. She has authored foundational work on Korean American 1.5-generation experiences and is completing a manuscript analyzing Asian American and Latino millennials/Gen Z. Her methodological emphasis on oral histories preserves elders' narratives to address historical gaps, particularly within Asian diaspora and Oceanic ethnic contexts.

As an Academic Advisor, she actively mentors students and elevates marginalized voices. Her community engagement priorities include collaborating with ACCESS programs, student organizations, international students, and community partners through the Center for Oral History projects.

Professor Danico's leadership in oral history initiatives centers on preserving intergenerational memories while advancing social justice through community-driven historical documentation.