Regents set UARC informational meeting on Jan. 20

University of Hawaiʻi
Contact:
Carolyn Tanaka, (808) 956-9803
External Affairs & University Relations
Posted: Jan 6, 2006

The University of Hawaiʻi‘s Board of Regents announced today that an informational meeting concerning the proposed University Affiliated Research Center would be held on Friday, January 20 at 1 p.m. in the Campus Center Ballroom on the UH Mānoa campus.

On November 18, 2004, the Board of Regents gave its provisional approval to the establishment of a UARC on the Mānoa campus. Before giving final approval, the Regents required that the campus complete work on a contract for the proposed center, and complete the normal consultation process on the campus.

On December 5, 2005, President David McClain issued a statement stating that, thanks to the leadership of Chancellor Denise Konan and others on the Mānoa campus, both conditions have now substantially been met. As Chancellor Konan‘s statement of the same date indicated, the consultation process on the campus revealed opposition from several faculty and student constituencies, some of which was based on the contract itself, which is unique for this kind of UARC. As a result of this consultation and analysis, the Chancellor stated that "I do not recommend proceeding with the contract," and noted that "UARC-related research would more appropriately be located off campus."

The January 20 informational meeting represents the next step in the process outlined several months ago, at which all in the broader community will have a chance to share their perspective on this issue; no Board decision will be taken at this informational meeting. Some time after the meeting is concluded, McClain will recommend a course of action to the Regents.

Those members of the public who intend to testify are encouraged to inform the Secretary of the Board in advance of the meeting but no later than (2) days prior to the meeting by calling 956-8213. Written testimonies also will be accepted.