The Candidate Advisory Council (CAC) for the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents has presented a list of three candidates to Gov. Josh Green to fill one Hawaiʻi Island seat for a five-year appointment beginning July 1, 2026, subject to confirmation by the state Senate. The finalists are:
- Chad Cabral
- Makai Freitas
- Wendy Laros
Finalist biographies are available at the Candidate Advisory Council website (PDF).
“The Candidate Advisory Council members extend their sincere appreciation to all the individuals who took the time to apply to serve as a University of Hawaiʻi Regent,” said CAC Chair Brigitte Yoshino. “While the selection was difficult due to the quality of the candidates, we are pleased to submit these names for consideration to the governor and the state senate.”
Candidate lists are compiled after a comprehensive review and selection process, which is solely and exclusively merit-based and according to procedures set forth in state statutes and the council’s administrative rules.
The Board of Regents is the governing body of UH and consists of eleven (11) volunteer members. Representation includes five (5) from the City and County of Honolulu; two (2) from Hawaiʻi County; two (2) from Maui County; one (1) from Kauaʻi County; and one (1) UH student.
Members of the CAC serve voluntarily and are not paid.
