Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green on Friday announced several appointments and interim appointments to state boards and commissions, including the appointment of Makai Freitas of the Big Island to the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents.
The Board is responsible for the general management and oversight of the University of Hawai‘i system. It consists of 11 volunteer members, with five from the City and County of Honolulu, two from Hawaiʻi County, two from Maui County, one from Kauaʻi County and one UH student.
Freitas was selected over two other finalists for the position: Chad Cabral and Wendy Laros.
Freitas is a distinguished labor leader with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, offering more than 20 years of expertise in organizational leadership and workforce advocacy, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor.
Throughout his career, Freitas has spearheaded complex negotiations and strategic workforce development initiatives that have strengthened economic opportunities for thousands of families across Hawaiʻi.
Freitas has a proven track record of cross-sector collaboration, working with educators, public agencies and community organizations to build pipelines from the classroom to the workforce. His work is rooted in the belief that integrated educational pathways are essential to the long-term economic resilience of the islands.
Freitas also serves as the West Hawaiʻi representative on the Hawaiian Homes Commission within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. In this role, he advocates for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries, focusing on affordable housing, community development and educational advancement.
A graduate of the University of Arizona, Freitas brings a balanced perspective of statewide advocacy and local community insight. He resides in Waimea with his wife, Aulani, and their two daughters, Wailea and Mahina.
“Higher education plays a vital role in Hawaiʻi’s future,” Freitas said. “I look forward to strengthening the university’s mission of teaching, learning and community service.”
Green also made several other appointments on Friday, saying: “From education and workforce development to housing and responsible planning, these individuals will help guide critical decisions that impact communities throughout our state.”
Hawaiʻi Teacher Standards Board: Leah Aiwohi, Brad Kusunoki and Gary Kanamori were appointed to the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board. These new members will support the board’s work in upholding the licensing and certification standards that govern teacher licensure and certification in Hawai‘i.
Board of Directors of the Hawaiʻi Public Housing Authority: Betty Lou Larson and Desiree Kihano were appointed to fill vacancies on the Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority Board, which oversees management and operation of federal and state public housing programs throughout Hawai‘i.
Land Use Commission: Jason Bradshaw was appointed to the Land Use Commission, which is charged with preserving and protecting Hawai‘i’s land resources while promoting appropriate and sustainable land use throughout the state.
Board of Education: Dr. Cheri Souza was appointed to the Board of Education, which is responsible for formulating statewide education policy. Additionally, the board appoints executive officers for the public school system and public library system, as well as members of the State Public Charter School Commission.
