Hawaiʻi Community College seeks a community-focused leader
University of HawaiʻiAssociate Professor, Hawaiʻi CC, Coordinator, Chancellor Search Advisory Committee
The search for Hawaiʻi Community College’s next chancellor has begun. The position was announced locally and nationally on January 8, 2024, with an expected start date of July 1, 2024. Susan Kazama was appointed interim chancellor on July 1, 2023, succeeding Rachel Solemsaas.
The Chancellor Search Advisory Committee (CSAC) met with Erika Lacro, University of Hawaiʻi vice president for community colleges, in January to initiate the search.
“Hawaiʻi CC seeks an experienced administrator who can lead a community-based college with multiple locations and a range of workforce programs. The chancellor will be expected to engage with community partners to ensure the college is meeting local workforce needs,“ said Lacro.
Hawaiʻi CC has two campuses—Manono (Hilo) and Pālamanui (Kona), the Kō Education Center in Hamakuʻa and a University Center in West Hawaiʻi.
Search Timeline
- January 2024: CSAC begins screening applicants and nominees.
- April 2024: In addition to in-person finalist interviews, on-campus visits will be scheduled to ensure that students, faculty, staff, administrators and other stakeholders are able to attend open forums.
- May 2024: Lacro plans to submit her recommended candidate for appointment to UH President David Lassner.
- July 2024: Expected start date of the new chancellor.
Chancellor Search Advisory Committee
The 20-member committee includes representation from faculty, students, Hoʻolulu Council (Native Hawaiian council), civil service staff, Administrative Professional and Technical (APT) staff, administrator, organizational units and community leaders.
Calvin Black, APT representative
Princess Gail Calapit, student
Kate De Soto, student affairs
Reshela DuPuis, faculty
Sheldon Higa, civil service
Grant Kaaua, faculty
Kuʻulei Kanahele, faculty
Donala Kawaʻahau, faculty
Akea Kiyuna, Hoʻolulu Council
Michael Mandaloniz, civil service
Wendy Medeiros, Pālamanui campus
Kirk Mikami, administrative services
Jack Minassian, faculty
Luria Namba, faculty
Estee Nathanson, continuing education
Thomas Parel, Jr., Kō Education Center
Christine Quintana, administrator
Kalei Rapoza, community
Tyler Rucker, student
Janette Snelling, community
Leanne Urasaki, search coordinator
For more information on the Hawaiʻi CC chancellor position, see: https://hawaii.hawaii.edu/chancellorsearch