Takako Desaki is a personnel officer at Leeward Community College. For over 31 years, Desaki has provided continuity, stability and leadership in human resources. She is a valued and trusted colleague who has effectively guided her college in the hiring of faculty and staff. Known for taking a proactive stance, she provides mentoring and networking opportunities to new employees making for a smooth transition to the college community. Desaki is particularly exceptional at resolving extremely sensitive and sometimes polarized situations, where the balance between the interests of the college with those of the student and/or employee is maintained.

Her expertise in fiscal and personnel management has been a tremendous asset. She initiated an in-house computerized information system, which expedites timely processing and payment of student, non-regular employees and lecturers. Desaki took the lead in creating the APT group as part of the college’s shared governance efforts. She established the annual Leeward CC Student Employee of the Year Award to honor outstanding student employees. Desaki is a lead participant of numerous campus priorities such as the development of the Leeward CC strategic plan, accreditiation self-study process, staff development and fund development.

Her intelligence, discretion, good judgment and keen analytical skills set her apart. Desaki’s impact on the campus is immeasurable. She is a solid role model in all aspects of service to the university and its community.