Gov. Ige Announces Board of Regents Nominations

Nominations to the University of Hawai’i Board of Regents were announced Thursday by Governor David Ige.

“Our UH system comprises 10 campuses that provide educational and research opportunities for many Hawai’i students and faculty throughout our state,” said Governor David Ige. “As such, we chose candidates with a breadth of experience who will represent my desire for the Regents to focus on ensuring long term sustainability of our sole public institution of higher education.”

Wayne Higaki has been nominated to serve on the board as Hawai’i County’s representative through June 30, 2016 once his position has been confirmed by the Senate. Currently, Higaki is the chief development officer at North Hawai’i Community Hospital. In addition, he is the chair of Hawai’i County’s Workforce Investment Board and a member of the Workforce Development Council for the State of Hawai’i. Higaki is a Honoka’a High School graduate who later went on to earn his associate of science degree at Kapi’olani Community College.

Other nominations that are also subject to confirmation by the Senate include: Simeon Acoba, Jr, Honolulu County; Helen Nielsen, Maui County; Ernest Wilson, Jr., Maui County; David Iha, Kaua’i County; and Michael McEnerney, City and County of Honolulu.

“This is an exceptional group of leaders with a range of diverse skills and expertise in the operations of large organizations,” said Governor Ige. “I am confident they will contribute to the continued success of the University of Hawai’i system.”