February 2011
Legislative Update
The 2011 Legislative Session is in full gear and I, our system administrators and chancellors have been spending a lot of time at the capitol meeting with legislators and testifying on a number of bills that impact the university. Of the six bills in the legislative package approved by the Board of Regents, five are still moving.
Of special concern to us are House and Senate bills that would reverse our financial flexibility by repealing the University of Hawai‘i’s special and revolving funds. Both bills have been deferred, but that does not mean that we’re in the clear yet. We will continue to stay vigilant and do all we can to preserve the university’s funding and flexibility.
Earlier this week, Gov. Abercrombie presented his draft state budget to legislators. It proposes giving UH only part of what we asked for. We would, of course, like to receive more, but the administration has worked with UH to identify the highest priorities considering the limited resources available, and we are grateful to be treated relatively well. I have met with Gov. Abercrombie and key members of his senior staff on numerous occasions, and I will continue to do so to make sure they know and understand what the university’s needs are.
University and campus news
- Big Island projects reach milestones
- UH APEC team appointed
- New Hawaiian language facility started
- $6 million energy grant received
- Alums join Korean cabinet
- Firms support West O‘ahu insurance program
- Community colleges extend outreach efforts
UH Hilo News
New Hawaiian language facility started
An inspiring groundbreaking ceremony was held Feb. 12 for the long-awaited building to house Hilo’s Ka Haka ‘Ula O Ke‘elikolani College of Hawaiian Language. The two-story, 37,000-square-foot facility will be situated on three acres near the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center and will house six classrooms, a performing arts auditorium that can be divided into three smaller spaces, offices, a computer lab and other special purpose rooms.
The building has already won critical acclaim by capturing the American Institute of Architects Honolulu Design Award in the category of Commissioned Work to be Built. The design by WCIT Architects of Honolulu incorporates spectacular views and reflects Native Hawaiian culture as well as the Big Island’s natural resources.
Completion of the $28-million facility is expected by the end of 2012.
Read the Hilo blog post.
