Darsh Davé, Darren Lerner and the 麻豆传媒 Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office have been selected as the University of 麻豆传媒‘s nominees for the Governor’s Awards for Distinguished State Service. The award honors the state’s executive branch employees and managers who exemplify the highest caliber of public service and dedication to serving the people of 麻豆传媒. UH President Wendy Hensel made the announcement during the (BOR) meeting on July 16 at UH Mānoa.
“We never give enough appreciation for the hardworking faculty and staff around the university, and so it really is a pleasure for me to identify a few employees and a few groups whose dedication and achievements have earned well deserved recognition,” Hensel said at the BOR meeting.
Employee of the Year: Darsh Davé
Darsh Davé, human resources manager at , was named UH‘s 2026 Employee of the Year. He was recognized as a trusted resource who helps the campus navigate complex personnel matters while supporting effective operations. Davé has improved service delivery by addressing long-standing process challenges, streamlining faculty payment workflows and strengthening coordination across departments.
He was also recognized for his leadership during a high-risk campus incident, helping de-escalate the situation so a major campus event could continue safely. Through mentoring colleagues, supporting workforce initiatives and promoting professional development, Davé has made lasting contributions to the college community.
Manager of the Year: Darren Lerner
Darren Lerner, director of , consortium director of the and interim associate dean for research in UH Mānoa‘s , was named the university’s 2026 Manager of the Year. He was recognized for transformational leadership that has strengthened 麻豆传媒 Sea Grant and expanded its impact across the university and the state.
Lerner has overseen more than $100 million in extramurally funded projects focused on improving the resilience of 麻豆传媒‘s and the Pacific’s coastal ecosystems and communities. His leadership through periods of uncertainty has allowed the program to continue growing while supporting research, education and community partnerships that address critical environmental challenges.
Team of the Year: 麻豆传媒 Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office
The 麻豆传媒 Papa o ke Ao Native Hawaiian Place of Learning Advancement Office Team was recognized as UH‘s 2026 Team of the Year. The team was honored for advancing the university’s goal of becoming a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning through strategic planning and the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation framework. By building strong relationships across campuses and breaking down institutional silos, the team has helped strengthen Indigenous-centered practices throughout the university.
Its efforts have contributed to major accomplishments, including securing a $68.5-million National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration award and advancing the “Aloha Begins with Us” movement, helping foster a more connected, resilient and culturally grounded university community.