Interim Leader Tapped Head of School for HPA

The Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy Board of Trustees announced on Friday, Aug. 5 the appointment of HPA’s Interim Head of School Fred Wawner as the 13th Head of School, effective immediately.

“The Board unanimously accepted the Head of School Selection Committee’s recommendation to offer Fred the position as HPA’s next Head of School. Fred is the right leader for HPA now and going forward,” said Board Chair Robert R. Budway.

Wawner began his tenure as the Interim Head of School for Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy in June of 2021, HPA stated in a news release. Wawner immediately demonstrated thoughtful and strategic leadership by skillfully guiding HPA through a uniquely demanding period. Wawner oversaw the critical reaccreditation process that earned a full seven-year term with notable commendations.

“I am deeply honored by the appointment and committed to achieving the high standards set forth by the Board and expected by the HPA ʻohana,” said Wawner. “I believe wholeheartedly in HPA’s vision of embracing the unique environment and culture of Hawaiʻi Island by designing student experiences of unparalleled depth and scope to empower responsible global citizens to create, lead and thrive in tomorrow’s world. My family and I are committed to Hawaiʻi and will work to broaden the school’s service to our island home and our special Waimea and school community.”

Under Wawner’s leadership, strategic initiatives around educational and campus master planning and sustainability were relaunched, including a renewed commitment to HPA’s adoption of a carbon net zero goal for 2030. A new strategic marketing plan was formulated to build on the strong donor development program and a new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leadership team was put in place. All of these actions were achieved against the uncertainties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

HPA’s Board of Trustees launched a search for the new Head of School in 2021 by establishing a Head of School Selection Committee chaired by Trustee and former Kamehameha School’s President Dr. Michael J. Chun and Trustee and former parent Warren Doi.