Randy Y. Hirokawa

Randy Y. Hirokawa is a Professor of Communication and Director of the Health Professions Student Center at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. He previously served as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 2005 to 2016. He holds a B.A. from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and M.A./Ph.D. from the University of Washington. His academic career includes faculty roles at the University of Iowa (1984–2004) and Pennsylvania State University (1980–1984).

His research focuses on small group communication, particularly decision-making effectiveness and group processes. He has authored over 39 journal articles, 25 book chapters, and co-edited influential texts like Communication and Group Decision-Making. Recognized for his teaching, he received the Collegiate Teaching Award (2003) and Burlington Northern Faculty Achievement Award (1989).

He has held editorial roles for journals including Communication Studies and Small Group Research, and served leadership roles in the National Communication Association (NCA). His community involvement spans athletic advisory roles, mediation services, and non-profit boards.

Education:

• B.A. (with honors), Speech, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (1975)
• M.A., Speech Communication, University of Washington (1977)
• Ph.D., Speech Communication, University of Washington (1980)

Research Interests:

• Small group communication dynamics and decision-making efficacy
• Functional theory applications in organizational groups
• Interdisciplinary healthcare team communication
• Technology's role in education and healthcare teams

Key Contributions: His work on functional theory is cited as one of the three most influential in small group communication. Recent studies explore healthcare team effectiveness using narrative analysis and simulations. His hybrid course research (2008) analyzed student engagement in blended learning environments.

Awards:

• 2006: Alumni Hall of Fame, University of Washington Communication Department
• 2003: Collegiate Teaching Award, University of Iowa
• 1989: Burlington Northern Faculty Achievement Award

Advising & Leadership: Supervised 16 Ph.D. dissertations, including key works on healthcare teams and group efficacy. Served as department chair at University of Iowa (1998–2004) and Dean at UH Hilo. Active in academic governance roles like NCA's Doctoral Education Committee.