Richardson Law Celebrates Miyoko Pettit-Toledo ’15 and Dina Shek ‘06 for UH honors

HONOLULU, Hawaiʻi (May 27, 2026) — The William S. Richardson School of Law celebrates Professor Miyoko Pettit-Toledo ’15 and Dina Shek ‘06, who were recognized with two of the University of Hawaiʻi’s highest honors for excellence in teaching and service.

“The extraordinary achievements of these faculty members reflect the University of Hawaiʻi’s unwavering commitment to excellence,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “These world-class educators and researchers are the driving force behind real, tangible improvements that are shaping the future of our students and the prosperity of our state.”

Pettit-Toledo, an assistant professor at Richardson Law, received the Board of Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching, which recognizes faculty who demonstrate extraordinary subject mastery and scholarship, teaching effectiveness and creativity, and personal values that benefit students. She was one of six UH Mānoa faculty members and one of 15 UH faculty members systemwide to receive the award.

Known for her rigor, empathy, and innovation, Pettit-Toledo brings civil procedure to life through practical lawyering exercises, critical inquiry, and collaborative learning. Her creative teaching methods, including student “law firms,” interactive simulations, and a “Procedure in Practice” writing lab, help students connect doctrine to real-world legal practice while developing into thoughtful, justice-minded advocates.

Shek, legal director of the Medical-Legal Partnership for Children at Richardson Law, received the Presidential Award for Outstanding Service, which honors a UH Mānoa staff member who demonstrates outstanding work performance, service, and leadership.

A nationally recognized scholar, researcher, and advocate, Shek has spent more than 18 years bridging law, public health, and community organizing to expand access to legal and social supports for Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable families. Described as a “tireless champion for Hawaiʻi’s families across the state,” she has engaged law students, medical residents, and UH colleagues in interdisciplinary work addressing the social determinants of health, helping prevent evictions, protect children with disabilities, support survivors of domestic violence and trafficking, and strengthen family self-advocacy.

“Professor Pettit-Toledo and Dina Shek represent the very best of Richardson Law,” said Dean Camille Nelson. “Their work reflects our school’s deep commitment to excellence in teaching, service, justice, and community. We are incredibly proud to see them recognized with these well-deserved university honors.”

Together, Pettit-Toledo and Shek exemplify Richardson Law’s commitment to excellence, justice, and service to the community.

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About William S. Richardson School of Law

The William S. Richardson School of Law is a collaborative, multicultural community preparing students for excellence in the practice of law and related careers that advance justice and the rule of law. We develop highly qualified, ethical professionals through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and public service. We embrace Hawai‘i’s diversity and values and recognize a special responsibility to our state and the Pacific region.

MEDIA CONTACT

Collin Cedotal, Public Information Specialist
(808) 956-9391 | ccedotal@hawaii.edu