Governor Josh Green recently announced several appointments and interim appointments to state boards and commissions, including the appointment of Makai Freitas to the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents.

University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents
Governor Green appointed Makai Freitas to the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents. Pursuant to Article X of the Hawai‘i State Constitution and Chapter 304A of the Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), the Board of Regents is responsible for the general management and oversight of the University of Hawai‘i system.

Freitas is a distinguished labor leader with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), offering more than 20 years of expertise in organizational leadership and workforce advocacy. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded complex negotiations and strategic workforce development initiatives that have strengthened economic opportunities for thousands of families across Hawaiʻi.

In addition to his professional leadership in the labor sector, Freitas 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.

The governor also announced the following appointments and interim appointments:

Hawaiʻi Teacher Standards Board
Governor Green also announced the appointment of three notable members to the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board. The board’s duties and responsibilities are outlined in the Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), which require the Governor, pursuant to HRS Section 302A-801, to appoint members who may serve no more than three consecutive three-year terms.

• Leah Aiwohi
• Brad Kusunoki
• Gary Kanamori

Board of Directors of the Hawaiʻi Public Housing Authority
Today, two individuals were announced to fill vacancies on the Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority Board. In accordance with Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Section 356D-3, members are appointed by the Governor to support the Hawai‘i Public Housing Authority’s management and operation of federal and state public housing programs throughout Hawai‘i.

• Betty Lou Larson
• Desiree Kihano

Land Use Commission
Governor Green also announced the appointment of a distinguished member to the Land Use Commission. Established under Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Section 205-1, the commission is charged with preserving and protecting Hawai‘i’s land resources while promoting appropriate and sustainable land use throughout the state.

• Jason Bradshaw

Board of Education
Lastly, Governor Green announced the appointment of a respected member to the Board of Education. Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Section 302A-121, the Governor appoints members to the board, 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.

• Dr. Cheri Souza