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
