2 new members appointed to University of Hawai‘i Board of Regents, pending Senate confirmation

The University of Hawai‘i Board of Regents has two new members joining its body, pending Hawai‘i State Senate confirmation.

Gov. Josh Green appointed Keith Amemiya and Marie Laderta to the seats. The Board of Regents is responsible for overseeing the 10-campus UH system, including policy direction, financial oversight and long-term strategic planning.

The Board of Regents is the governing body of UH and consists of 11 non-compensated volunteer members. The representation includes five from the City and County of Honolulu; two from Hawaiʻi County; two from Maui County; one from Kauaʻi County; and one UH student.

“Keith and Marie are exactly the kinds of leaders we need guiding the future of our UH system,” Green said. “Keith brings a deep understanding of the university from the inside, along with strong ties to our business and education communities. Marie has dedicated her career to public service and brings a wealth of experience in government operations and accountability. Together, they will help ensure UH continues to serve our students, strengthen our workforce and drive innovation across our state.”

Amemiya brings decades of leadership experience across Hawaiʻi’s legal, financial and education sectors, according to a news release from the Office of the Governor.

Amemiya currently serves as Senior Vice President at Central Pacific Bank and previously held leadership roles with Tradewind Group and the Hawaiʻi High School Athletic Association. He also has direct experience with the University of Hawai‘i system, having served as Executive Administrator and Secretary to the Board of Regents.

“As a proud University of Hawai‘i graduate, I’m honored to be nominated by Governor Green to the Board of Regents,” Amemiya said. “UH is integral to the success of our state, especially our younger generations and I’m thus committed to best ensuring a strong higher educational system with opportunities for all if confirmed by the legislature.”

Laderta has worked in the Hawaiʻi state government and the judiciary for nearly three decades. She has served as Deputy Attorney General, Deputy Director of the Department of Taxation and Director of the Department of Human Resources Development.

Laderta currently serves on the Labor and Industrial Relations Appeals Board, adjudicating workers’ compensation appeals.

“I am humbled and grateful to Governor Green for my appointment as regent to the UH system,” said Ladera. “I look forward to being given the opportunity to help steward higher education for the benefit of the institution, its students, faculty, employees and stakeholders.”

Amemiya and Laderta will serve terms as prescribed by law, pending Senate confirmation.