Public forums to be held across state for UH president candidates

40.5K

4.1K

1.8K

Unveiling the Next Leader: UH's Presidential Search Narrows Down to Two Finalists

The University of Hawaii's search for a new president has reached a critical juncture, with two finalists emerging from the pool of candidates. The public will now have the opportunity to engage with these individuals and provide valuable feedback as the university prepares to make its final decision.

Shaping the Future of Higher Education in Hawaii

The Finalists: Wendy Hensel and Julian Vasquez Heilig

The two finalists vying for the prestigious position of UH president are Wendy Hensel, the Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost for The City University of New York, and Julian Vasquez Heilig, the current Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs for Western Michigan University. Both candidates bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions in the 21st century.

Engaging the Community: Public Forums and Open Houses

To ensure transparency and gather valuable input from the community, UH has scheduled a series of open houses and public forums across the state, allowing the public to meet the finalists and engage in discussions about their vision for the university. These events will take place on multiple islands, providing ample opportunities for stakeholders to voice their concerns and aspirations for the future of UH.

The Decision-Making Process: Timing and Transition

UH plans to announce its decision on the new president in mid- to late October, with the successful candidate set to take over the reins from the retiring David Lassner at the end of the year. This transition period will be crucial in ensuring a seamless handover and the continued momentum of the university's strategic initiatives.

The Importance of Community Engagement

The public forums and open houses scheduled for the finalists are a testament to UH's commitment to transparency and community engagement. By providing opportunities for the public to interact with the candidates, the university is demonstrating its desire to incorporate diverse perspectives and ensure that the next president is aligned with the needs and aspirations of the broader community.

The Challenges Ahead: Navigating a Changing Landscape

The incoming UH president will face a multitude of challenges, from adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education to addressing the unique needs of Hawaii's diverse student population. The successful candidate will need to possess a keen understanding of the state's educational priorities, a proven track record of innovative leadership, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the university's mission and reputation.

The Opportunity for Transformative Change

The selection of the next UH president represents a pivotal moment for the university and the state of Hawaii. The chosen individual will have the opportunity to shape the future of higher education, driving forward initiatives that enhance student success, foster research and innovation, and strengthen the university's role as a catalyst for economic and social progress in the region.