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University of Hawai'i |
(808) 956-8856 Telephone |
For Immediate Release: |
July 21, 2000 |
Contact: Jim Manke, University and Community Relations, 956-6106
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Lily K. Yao Selected Regents Chair for 2000-2001 |
Big Island Regent Alan Ikawa Elected Vice Chair
The University of Hawai`i Board of Regents today elected Lily K. Yao to be Chair of the board for the year 2000-2001. Yao chaired the board in 1996-97. She succeeds Donald C.W. Kim, who has been chair for the past two years.
In parting remarks, Kim thanked board members and UH administrators for their support during his time as chair. "It has been a privilege to serve, he said, " and one of the most enriching experiences of my life."
UH President Kenneth P. Mortimer acknowledged Kim' s contributions as a true leader for the board. "Don Kim's service on this board is but the latest in a series of personal commitments he has made to the University of Hawai`i," Mortimer said. He noted that when he became president of the university, Kim was president of the UH Alumni Association. "Even then, and certainly in succeeding years," Mortimer said, "Kim's message in support of the institution has always been one of hope and inspiration."
Kim has one more year remaining in his term as a regent.
Incoming Chair Yao will also be serving her final year as a regent. She, too, acknowledged Kim's contributions as a leader, noting that he brought "stability, a management focus, real achievements and momentum to the board and the university."
Top priority for the board in the coming year will be seeking a successor to President Mortimer, who will step down from the presidency at the end of June next year. "In this tremendously difficult task, we request the support of the university community and the community at large," she said. "Our goal is to put in place the kind of leadership the university and the state of Hawai`i deserve."
Regent Alan Ikawa was elected Vice Chair for the coming year.
The Board also voted to streamline its own organization, consolidating the responsibilities of its nine standing committees into a total of six new groups. Committee rosters will be announced at a later date.
