Nice gift!
Ohana has a pretty good reputation among the ukulele world, although are not as widely distributed as Kala or Lanikai. If you really want a tonal treat, put a single low G on that tenor. (I use Aquila Red singles bought from Elderly). Most of my ukulele are now converted to low G, but I still retain one with a high G string for a more traditional sound.
Spruce tops do lend a crisper more modern tone over mahogany or koa. I've played several with various body woods and a spruce top. And a few Pono with cedar tops too. As with guitars, there are degrees of brightness and warmth.
Take a look at our club's web site to see if there is anything you can use in your studies:
www.boiseukulelegroup.com