Global Campus Alum, Children’s Author Wins WSU Alumni Award

By Jeff Willadsen, WSU Global Campus

Gerry Ebalaroza-Tunnell finds purpose through serving her community and sharing the ancestral wisdom that shaped her. That deep-rooted spirit of service, education, and connection led to her receiving the 2025 WSU Alumni Achievement Award.

“This is something that I truly didn’t expect,” she said. “It’s hard to express how much it means to me.”

Known affectionately as “Dr. G,” Ebalaroza-Tunnell is the author of Let’s Live ALOHA, an award-winning children’s book that promotes qualities such as empathy and adaptability.

Ebalaroza-Tunnell earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences degree online through WSU Global Campus in 2011 and later completed a Ph.D. in transformative studies and consciousness at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Her impact has been widely recognized, including by the WSU Alumni Association.

“I was incredibly honored to present Dr. G with this award,” said WSU Alumni Association Executive Director Mariah Maki. “Through her writing, community service, and consulting work, Dr. G has shown an unwavering commitment to transformational change in our culture. She truly embodies what it means to be a Coug.”

The WSU Alumni Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed by the WSU Alumni Association, recognizing alumni who have demonstrated outstanding service or made exceptional contributions to their community, profession, or nation.

A proud Native Hawaiian, Dr. G integrates her cultural heritage into her work as an author, speaker, and organizational consultant focused on inclusion and positive, lasting change.

“As a Hawaiian, I believe that giving back to my community is my kuleana—my sacred responsibility,” she said. “I never expect anything in return, so when appreciation is shown, it’s incredibly meaningful.”

In May, as part of Global Campus’ celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Dr. G volunteered her time to lead two webinars based on Let’s Live ALOHA—one for children and one for adults. She also donated 40 copies of her book to be given away to participants.

In her book, Dr. G introduces readers to the acronym A.L.O.H.A.—Ask, Listen, Observe, have a Heart focus, and Adapt—drawing from traditional Hawaiian wisdom to encourage intentional, compassionate living.

“Aloha means so many things. It’s about community and harmony. It’s also about adapting to the challenges we face in our lives,” she said. “Whether you are a child or an adult, understanding and practicing these ancient values can help us live better lives and make a better world. I believe it’s my kuleana to share that wisdom with those around me.”

During her May 20 webinar, Global Campus staff surprised Dr. G with an official presentation of the award.

“Dr. G is a real treasure in our Global Campus alumni community,” said Andria Donnenwerth, director of student involvement at WSU Global Campus. “We couldn’t ask for a better role model for our students. She has shown us what Cougs can achieve with passion and purpose.”

Donnenwerth, who also oversees Global Campus alumni relations, nominated Dr. G for the award.

“It’s been an honor to get to know her and to share her inspiring work with our online students and their families. If anyone deserves this recognition, it’s Dr. G.”