Center for Catholic Education at UD
Meet the Staff: Andre "Pono" Riddle
What do you do at the Center for Catholic Education? I am a Marianist PULSE Volunteer and am volunteering with ECHO for my year of service.
Tell a little about yourself and what led you to working with CCE? My full name is Andre Dawson Kekupono Riddle. I was given “Andre Dawson” by my dad. Andre Dawson was a Chicago Cubs baseball player, and my dad––and my mom too––really admired Andre Dawson’s humility and love for the game. Ironically, I don’t play baseball, but kind of wish I did. My mom gave me the Hawaiian name Kekupono, which means “one who strives for righteousness / goodness.” Nowadays, I’m just known by “Pono,” simply meaning “righteousness / goodness.” Although I was born in Portland, Oregon, I’ve lived in Hawaii––on the island of Oahu––my entire life. I am a proud graduate of Chaminade University of Honolulu, where I received a B.S. in Psychology. I am interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree either in Education or in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family, and felt that the pairing of working with ECHO and with CCE for my year of service was the perfect fit.
Describe your family? My family is very loving and supportive. My parents––my mom, especially––and grandparents have been my rocks ever since I could remember and I’m eternally grateful for their contribution to my upbringing. They always bring out the very best in me.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love to hang out with friends and family, as well as listen to inspirational music, and take pictures. I also enjoy binge-watching the TV show, “Friends.”
Why do you support Catholic Education? I support Catholic Education because I’ve been blessed to attend Catholic Schools my entire life. I love learning and growing in my faith.
What Catholic Education topic are you most passionate about? I really love the Catholic Education topic of inclusivity. It is something that I’ve been passionate about from a young age. I love that the Catholic faith is for ALL.
Who is your role model? I have A LOT; however, if I have to narrow it down, my mom is my role model. There are hardly words to describe my gratitude for all she does and has done for me over the years. Her selflessness, love, and joyful spirit––to say the least––inspire me to be a better person every day.
Tell us three fun facts about you. I love to hike. I have watched the TV show, “Friends” four times (all 10 seasons). I love music, especially the throwbacks.