Dillon Gabriel’s route to the NFL started at Mililani High School and it’s also a place he keeps returning to. Under coach Rod York, the quarterback set the high school football state record for all-time passing yards, a mark that held up until this past fall. That success followed him at the three colleges he played for over a six-year span, culminating with a Heisman Trophy nomination in December. In his final year at Oregon, he led the Ducks to an undefeated regular season, a Big Ten title and finished his career as the NCAA’s Football Bowl Subdivision all-time leader in total touchdowns (189), tied for first in passing touchdowns (155), and second in career passing yards (18,722) and total yards (19,931). In April, Gabriel was selected in the third round of the NFL Draft as the 94th pick by the Cleveland Browns. 

Though his football career has taken him on many routes, Mililani remains in Gabriel’s heart. He has returned several times with donations of uniforms and equipment for his alma mater’s sports teams. His father, Garrett Gabriel, was a quarterback for the University of Hawai‘i football team in the late ‘80s and is currently a behavioral health specialist at 밀릴라니 중학교 and boys basketball head coach at 밀릴라니 고등학교, where he coached his youngest son, Roman.

Occupation: NFL Quarterback, Cleveland Browns

What school you grad? Mililani High School ‘19

College: Attended University of Central Florida, University of Oklahoma and University of Oregon

Location: Cleveland, OH

Q: Briefly describe your journey after high school.

A: After graduating from Mililani High School, I went on to play college football at University of Central Florida for three years, then transferred to the University of Oklahoma where I earned my degree. I completed my college career at the University of Oregon. Every stop along the way taught me something new — on the field and off — and helped shape who I am today.

Q: What are you up to these days?

A: I’m currently playing in the NFL, living out a lifelong dream. Off the field, I’m focused on giving back to the next generation through philanthropic projects in my hometown and managing my brand and business ventures that were built during college. I’m proud of where I come from and passionate about giving back to the community that shaped me. I’ve started a foundation focused on inspiring the next generation and continue to look for ways to create opportunities for kids in Hawai‘i to dream big and chase it.

Q: Why did you choose this career path and what do you enjoy most about it?

A: Football has always been my passion. I love the competitive nature of the game, the discipline it requires, and the relationships you build through it. It’s also opened doors for me to inspire others and invest back into the community that raised me.

Q: What makes you #PublicSchoolProud?

A: Growing up in Hawai‘i’s public school system gave me a strong foundation. I’m proud to be from a place where people genuinely support one another. It means a lot to go back home and still see the same teachers, friends, and families who’ve always had my back. You don’t need to leave Hawai‘i to get a high-level education — and I’m living proof of that.

Q: Favorite subject in school?

A: Math. I’ve always liked working with numbers and solving problems. It’s something that still plays a role in my daily life — especially when it comes to managing business and personal goals.

Q: What type of extracurricular activities were you involved in?

A: Football was my main focus, but more than a sport, it was my outlet. It gave me a place to compete, connect, and grow as a person. It also taught me structure, leadership, and resilience.

Q: Name of a teacher or mentor you’d like to thank?

A: Coach Agsalda – PE. He had a big impact on my journey and played a key role in my development both as an athlete and as a person.

Q: What advice do you have for students?

A: The habits you create now — whether good or bad — will show up later in your life. Make decisions today that set you up for a better tomorrow. And always surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.

Are you or do you know someone who exemplifies the Hawai’i State Department of Education’s mission to prepare all graduates to be globally competitive and locally committed? We are looking for individuals who graduated from a Hawai’i public school and are passionate about their communities. Please fill out this form for a chance to be featured as a future alumni spotlight.