Cancer patients traveling off-island for treatment. Kūpuna waiting months to see a neurologist. Rural communities struggling to access behavioral health and addiction services. These challenging realities are driving the University of �鶹��ý Board of Regents request for $3,724,600 to expand �鶹��ý’s healthcare workforce and improve access to care across the islands.

The funding would support UH’s new Health Science and Healthcare Interdisciplinary Workforce Initiative, a coordinated hire request that would add 18.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) clinician and faculty positions across five health sciences units to address severe shortages in high-need medical fields, including cancer, neurology and dementia, and behavioral health integration and addiction medicine.

“UH has a kuleana to the people and ʻāina of �鶹��ý, and that responsibility drives us to focus on solutions that make a real difference in our communities,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “By strengthening our healthcare workforce, we can train more providers and expand access to care for kupuna and families across all islands.”

Expanding the healthcare pipeline, patient care

The coordinated hire would add clinician faculty who both train future healthcare providers and deliver direct patient care in rural and underserved communities across the state.

“The goal is to improve access to care across all islands by providing direct clinical services and addressing shortages in underserved communities,” said UH ����ԴDz� Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos. “This coordinated request for positions will increase the workforce pipeline by training more doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and other health providers essential to providing high quality care for patients with dementia, addictions, or other behavioral health challenges.”

Addressing high-priority health needs

The initiative spans five UH units—UH ����ԴDz�’s , the , the , the , and the UH Hilo —and focuses on clinician leaders and researchers working with state and health system partners through community-based, interprofessional approaches aligned with legislative priorities.

Funding would be directed toward three high-priority health areas identified as critical needs for the state:

• Cancer ($1,674,400; 6.35 FTE): Establishing an accredited hematology-oncology fellowship and expanding clinical research capacity.
• Neurology and Dementia ($1,162,200; 7.40 FTE): Creating an accredited neurology residency program and expanding the Kūpuna Workforce Innovation Hub.
• Behavioral Health Integration and Addiction Medicine ($888,000; 4.75 FTE): Expanding the Education and Research Center of Addiction Medicine and enhancing telehealth services.
• Beyond direct patient care, the initiative would support statewide continuing education in dementia care and behavioral health–primary care integration, consistent with �鶹��ý State Department of Health and legislative priorities.

Targeted request in a tight budget climate

The initiative is one of two high-priority items in UH’s $18.8 million supplemental operating budget request () for fiscal year 2026–27, introduced amid slowing state revenue growth.

“We purposefully limited the request to major strategic items that are time-sensitive and provide essential benefits to both the state and the university,” said UH Vice President for Budget and Finance Luis Salaveria. “Given the current fiscal climate, this approach allows UH to focus its resources on areas where the need is greatest, and the impact on �鶹��ý’s communities will be most immediate.”

The University of �鶹��ý is launching an exploratory effort to strengthen coordination between the UH ����ԴDz� (JABSOM) and the , which are located next to each other on the same property in Kakaʻako. The initiative aims to enhance collaboration in health sciences research, education and community service, and support �鶹��ý’s growing health workforce needs.

Over the past decade, the UH units emerged as a major hub for health sciences innovation and partnership, bringing together faculty, researchers, students, clinicians and community organizations. UH leaders say that greater alignment across the two academic and research units could build on that momentum and help expand access to care across the islands.

Exploration, collaboration

In a January 14 message sent to the JABSOM and UH Cancer Center employees, UH President Wendy Hensel, UH ����ԴDz� Interim Provost Vassilis Syrmos, UH Cancer Center Director Naoto T. Ueno and JABSOM Dean Samuel Shomaker emphasized that the initial phase will be exploratory and collaborative.

“As we look ahead, we have a shared opportunity to build on this foundation so that our work is even more impactful for the people of �鶹��ý,” the message noted. “This initial phase will focus on identifying areas where shared administrative services, joint planning and enhanced communication can support our collective mission.”

The effort will examine opportunities related to facilities and campus operations, fiscal and grants administration, clinical research support and other core functions essential to academic and research excellence. UH leaders stressed that there are no plans to eliminate positions as part of the exploration.

“This exploratory work will preserve and strengthen the distinct missions of both institutions, JABSOM’s medical education and academic autonomy, and the UH Cancer Center’s National Cancer Institute designation and programmatic leadership, while seeking efficiencies and synergies that support both,” stated the university leaders in the message.

A working group representing both units will convene in early 2026 to help inform next steps. The coordination effort will be conducted in an open, consultative and transparent manner with continued engagement of faculty, staff, students and partners.

Luis P. Salaveria has been selected to be the next University of �鶹��ý Vice President for Budget and Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Salaveria is set to start, subject to confirmation by the Board of Regents, on November 21 and will replace Kalbert Young, who is departing at the end of 2025 after 10 years in the position to become the executive director of the �鶹��ý State Employees’ Retirement System.

Salaveria has 35 years of professional executive experience in the public and private sectors, most recently serving as the state’s director of finance from 2022 to 2025 in the administration of Gov. Josh Green.

“We are thrilled to welcome Luis to lead our financial operations at UH,” said UH President Wendy Hensel. “As a cabinet member and director of finance, he was responsible for overseeing the planning and design of the state’s entire operational and capital improvement budgets. His proven record of achievement in complex financial situations makes him uniquely qualified to ensure the long-term financial stability of our 10-campus system.”

Salaveria will be responsible for UH’s $1.1-billion operating budget, guiding financial planning and resource allocation to strengthen academic, research and student success initiatives across the 10-campus system.

“As an alumnus of UH, I am honored to join the 10-campus system and serve in this vital role,” said Salaveria, who earned his bachelor’s degree in economics with a minor in political science from UH ����ԴDz�. “I have been fortunate to serve in various cabinet roles in state government under three administrations. This, coupled with my private sector background, I believe provides the technical expertise and vision necessary for this position. I look forward to contributing to the long-term financial health and success of the university.”

As the state finance director, he oversaw the State Treasury, which holds assets exceeding $14 billion, and managed the planning and design of the state’s annual $19-billion operational budget and $3-billion capital improvement budget.

Salaveria led the state’s financial response to the Maui Wildfire Disaster, implemented the state’s tax reform package, the “Green Affordability Plan,” resulting in the largest income tax update in state history, and developed the strategy for the state’s first climate resilience fund.

From 2014 to 2018, he served as director of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), where he oversaw statewide economic policy in business development, trade, energy and housing. Before joining DBEDT, Salaveria was the state’s deputy director of finance from 2011 to 2014, helping manage the state’s multi-year financial plan that achieved a $1 billion turnaround in three years.

In the private sector, Salaveria served as senior director of government affairs for SanHi Government Strategies, LLP (2018–22), representing clients including Fortune 500 companies, non-profits and trade associations. The work included successfully drafting and passing legislation and providing consulting in government operations.

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel and Chancellor Carlos Peñaloza hosted public forums at Leeward CC and on October 10, to open a campus-wide conversation about a potential unified vision and closer integration between the two institutions. (Videos of both forums are available below.)

The sessions, which were also livestreamed, followed Hensel’s September 18 announcement that Peñaloza will serve as interim chancellor of UH West Oʻahu effective January 1, while continuing to lead Leeward CC. In her remarks, Hensel emphasized that the dual leadership role represents the beginning of a conversation and “there are no predetermined outcomes.”

“All of you will have the opportunity to engage directly and we’ll hear from you about what excites you about the future, what opportunities are out there and that these conversations will go forward together,” Hensel said.
Peñaloza affirmed his dedication to serving, and uniting, the two campuses in support of students.

“I am committed to both campuses and I am committed to exploring possibilities to enhance our student experience,” Peñaloza said. “As I’ve been committed to Leeward for a little over six years, I am committed to making UH West Oʻahu part of my ʻohana as well and make sure they get the necessary resources for us to explore what could be the future for both of us.”

More than 50 people attended the Leeward CC forum in person and more than 100 tuned in online. At UH West Oʻahu, more than 70 people attended in person and approximately 150 watched online. In total, approximately 30 questions were answered in both forums, following presentations by Hensel and Peñaloza.

Questions were asked about a variety of topics, including student support services, academic alignment, and how shared initiatives could enhance educational access for west Oʻahu students. Hensel and Peñaloza reaffirmed that no structural changes have been made and that the purpose of the discussion is to listen, gather input and envision possibilities together.

UH West Oʻahu Chancellor Maenette Benham, who will step down at the end of the year, opened the forum at UH West Oʻahu and introduced Hensel and Peñaloza.

Recordings of both forums will be added to this story when they’re available for those who could not attend.

Leeward CC forum

UH West Oʻahu forum

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel, subject to approval by the Board of Regents, has appointed Carlos Peñaloza, current chancellor of , to simultaneously serve as interim chancellor of , effective January 1, 2026. This unique dual appointment will launch a groundbreaking strategic exploration of the potential for a unified vision for and integration of the two West Oʻahu campuses.

Peñaloza will succeed Chancellor Maenette K. P. Ah Nee-Benham, who announced in August that she will step down at the end of the year. During this interim period, Peñaloza will continue to lead Leeward CC, ensuring stability and continuity for both institutions. Discussions with stakeholders at both campuses will be scheduled in the coming months.

“This is a critical moment to rethink how we deliver higher education to the region,” said Hensel. “With engagement from students, faculty and staff and guided by Chancellor Peñaloza, this effort will assess whether joint leadership can create a more seamless, effective and innovative experience for our students and meet the unique needs of this growing population center. Carlos is a proven leader who has earned the trust of the Leeward community. His vision and innovative thinking make him the ideal person to guide this crucial exploration.”

Prioritizing innovation, student success

Peñaloza’s initial charge will be to work closely with the faculty and staff of both UH West Oʻahu and Leeward CC—including , a full-service education center—to consider the potential for operating as a more integrated regional campus. This exploration will prioritize innovation, efficiency and student success, with key areas including:

• Optimizing curriculum and course pathways to ensure seamless credit transfer for students moving between Leeward CC and UH West Oʻahu.
• Exploring academic innovation and new pathways, such as three-year degree programs, to accelerate graduation and meet critical workforce needs.
• Strengthening the use of unique facilities, such as the , Waiʻanae Moku and the for greater access for students across both campuses.
• Strengthening community impact through programs and partnerships that directly reflect the needs of West and Central Oʻahu.

“Leeward and West Oʻahu already share many students, valuable faculty collaborations and strong community ties,” said Peñaloza, who has served as Leeward CC chancellor since 2019.

“I am honored by this interim appointment and look forward to exploring how one unified vision can reduce barriers, open new opportunities and strengthen our collective impact on the region by advancing access and student achievement.”

Emphasizing student empowerment, achievement

A graduate of Queensborough Community College in New York, who was born in Valencia, Venezuela, Peñaloza subsequently earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees in biology from the City University of New York. He previously served as provost and chief academic officer at Saint Luke’s College of Health and Sciences in Kansas City, Missouri, and has more than a decade of biomedical research experience.

During his tenure at Leeward CC, the campus has made investments to reduce deferred maintenance, opened the Wahiawā Value Added Product Development Center and the Hōʻikeākea Gallery, and expanded the Waiʻanae Moku education center. Leeward CC has also become the food and product innovation hub for the community colleges. Peñaloza has served as commissioner for the American Association for Community Colleges and currently serves on the board of directors.

Peñaloza has long emphasized equity and student empowerment, and his leadership at Leeward CC has focused on reducing achievement gaps for Native Hawaiian students, supporting innovation among faculty and staff and strengthening community partnerships. Leeward CC has been recognized nationally for its Kawaimanomano (The Many Waters) professional development program. In 2024, Leeward CC awarded $1.4 million to 859 �鶹��ý Promise Scholarship recipients, something Peñaloza hopes to continue to leverage to make the pathway to a four-year degree more affordable.

“This is an opportunity to build on our shared history—UH West Oʻahu was colocated on Leeward CC for decades—and amplify our strategic strengths,” Peñaloza said. “Both colleges have been trailblazers in online learning and early college programs, and together, we can become a model for 21st-century education.”

The UH administration will report to the UH Board of Regents with findings and recommendations arising out of the strategic collaboration for further consideration.

�鶹��ý Community College is welcoming two new academic leaders who bring deep commitment, experience and vision to the college: longtime faculty member Carrie Mospens as dean of career and technical education (CTE), and Hilo native Jace Saplan as dean of liberal arts and sciences.

Carrie Mospens

After nearly two decades at �鶹��ý CC, Mospens steps into her new role as dean of CTE, where she will oversee programs that prepare students for careers vital to �鶹��ý Island’s economy. She joined the college in 2010 and has served as an instructor, associate professor, English department chair and interim dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“Throughout my years at �鶹��ý CC, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, determination and transformation of our students,” said Mospens. “Stepping into this role allows me to continue supporting them in new ways, helping ensure they have the tools and pathways to succeed in careers that benefit both themselves and our community.”

Her leadership emphasizes place-based, hands-on learning that responds to industry needs. “My vision is to forge accessible and responsive programming that empowers our students to fulfill their aspirations through pathways rooted in partnerships and innovation,” she explained.

Chancellor Susan Kazama said, “Carrie’s long service at �鶹��ý CC reflects her unwavering commitment to student success and community engagement. As dean of Career and Technical Education, she will help strengthen pathways that connect our students to meaningful careers.”

Jace Saplan

Liberal arts and sciences is �鶹��ý CC’s largest academic unit. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools �鶹��ý Campus, Saplan brings national experience to the dean’s post, having served as senior director of Identity and Belonging at Whitman College and in faculty and leadership roles at the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� and other institutions.

“I was drawn to this role because it brings together knowledge, culture and opportunity,” Saplan said. “The liberal arts and sciences help students to ideate their kuleana (responsibility) to ʻāina (land), self and the community at large. In my role, I look forward to collaborating with our faculty to ensure that our students thrive.”

Kazama said, “Jace brings a strong vision for academic excellence, and a deep respect for our kauhale (village) and the cultural values that ground our college. We look forward to the positive impact his leadership will have on our students, faculty and community.”

Charles “Chip” Fletcher has been named the next dean of the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� (SOEST), with his appointment set to take effect on July 7 following notice at the next Board of Regents meeting. UH ����ԴDz� Provost Michael Bruno made the selection following a comprehensive search.

“We had several outstanding candidates for this position, but Chip truly distinguished himself,” said Bruno. “He brings exceptional scientific expertise, a deep understanding of SOEST and a longstanding commitment to both the university and the people of �鶹��ý. Chip is widely respected by state leaders and community members alike, and as we navigate the uncertainties ahead, his steady leadership will be critical for one of the premier research units at UH ����ԴDz�.”

Fletcher has served as interim dean of SOEST since 2022 and was previously the associate dean for academic affairs. A climate scientist, geologist and educator, Fletcher has held a position as a faculty member in the SOEST since 1991. He leads a research team dedicated to modeling climate impacts, sea level rise and resilience strategies for �鶹��ý and Pacific Island communities. He has also served as a Special Advisor on Climate Change and Resilience to �鶹��ý Gov. Josh Green.

A big picture thinker, Fletcher has published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific papers, contributing critical knowledge to the fields of climate change, marine geology and environmental sustainability. Throughout his career, he has been an advocate for climate action and environmental stewardship, ensuring that scientific research informs real-world solutions for �鶹��ý, the Pacific and beyond.

“I’m both humbled and excited to serve as dean of SOEST—a thriving ʻohana of brilliant, caring minds dedicated to research, education and service that centers the people and environments of �鶹��ý, the Pacific and our shared planet,” said Fletcher.

During his public presentation as a finalist for the position, Fletcher shared a vision for SOEST, including maintaining excellence in research and education, supporting both scientific progress and community well-being, commitment to advancing UH ����ԴDz� and SOEST as a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning, and ensuring the resilience of island communities in �鶹��ý and throughout the Pacific. His leadership journey at UH ����ԴDz�, combined with his established relationships within the community, legislators and the school, makes him an ideal candidate.

“My vision for SOEST is grounded in pilina—the deep relationships we build with each other, with our island home, and with communities across �鶹��ý and the Pacific,” said Fletcher. “These connections are the foundation of meaningful science, impactful education and lasting resilience. As we move forward, I’m committed to honoring these relationships and strengthening SOEST as a place of excellence, inclusion and aloha.”

SOEST has brought in more than $987 million in extramural funds and private revenue in the past decade and is home to four academic departments, two additional degree granting programs, eight organized research units, and numerous specialized facilities and laboratories. SOEST scientists are global experts in ocean, earth, environmental, and planetary sciences, as well as marine biology, renewable energy and ocean engineering. Researchers and students are advancing the frontiers of knowledge and innovating solutions to living on planet Earth in ways that conserve natural ecosystems; promote just, healthy communities; and foster a high-tech economy in which future generations can thrive.

Steven Merrill, the University of �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ��’s first-ever director of emergency management for the 10-campus system, brings decades of crisis management experience to his new role. Merrill joined UH in January 2025, following a distinguished 33-year career with the FBI, where he most recently served as the Special Agent in Charge for �鶹��ý, Guam, Saipan, and American Samoa.

Since arriving at UH, Merrill has been focused on assessing existing emergency protocols and developing comprehensive continuity plans. He aims to establish a unified approach to emergency preparedness while tailoring strategies to the specific needs of each campus.

“It’s not a matter of if we’re going to have an emergency, it’s a matter of when,” said Merrill. “I want to ensure that the university system is as prepared as possible, so we can get through crises safely, with minimal disruption to our operations.”

One of his top priorities is creating a culture of preparedness, emphasizing regular training and engagement with faculty, staff and students.

“It’s not enough to have an emergency response plan sitting on a website or someone’s desk,” Merrill added. “My job is to sell the plan to all stakeholders, explain why it is important, and empower people to be prepared—not just for themselves, but for their co-workers and students.”

A career on the frontlines

Merrill’s career has placed him at the heart of some of the world’s most challenging crises. He was the first U.S. responder to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks and managed the investigative response to the Merrimack Valley gas explosions in Massachusetts in 2018.

“I’ve always been drawn to situations that push me outside my comfort zone,” Merrill said. “Each response taught me valuable lessons I carry with me today.”

His broad experience also includes working extensively in the Philippines for the FBI at the US Embassy in Manila, where he studied the Tagalog language to better connect with local partners. He also led a high-profile corruption investigation involving a California mayor in the Bay Area and mentored new agents during the 2011 college admission scandal known as Varsity Blues, reinforcing his commitment to teamwork and accountability.

Looking ahead, Merrill believes that UH’s greatest strength in times of crisis lies in its core cultural values.

“What’s going to carry us through the crises is the spirit of aloha and ʻohana. I have real confidence in this university’s ability to make it through, because we have that spirit. I know that when times get tough, everyone will step up and do their part to help one another.”

—By McKenzie Kurosu

The University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� has selected Mo Zell as the next dean of the . She is set to officially assume the role on April 16, 2025, pending the posting on the March 20, Board of Regents meeting and final approval by UH President Wendy F. Hensel.

Zell brings more than 22 years of academic experience across four institutions, with the last 12 years spent in multiple leadership roles at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning. She has been recognized for her work in fostering community partnerships and driving innovative educational programs.

“We are thrilled for the future of the School of Architecture under Professor Zell’s leadership,” said UH ����ԴDz� Provost Michael Bruno. “Her expertise, vision and innovative approach will enhance the school’s impact on students, faculty and the broader community. With extensive administrative experience, a commitment to student-engaged research, and a passion for fundraising, she stood out as the top candidate to lead the school forward.”

Zell expressed her enthusiasm for joining UH ����ԴDz�. “I am thrilled and honored to join the University of �鶹��ý as the dean of The School of Architecture. SOA has a rich history of innovation and an incredible faculty and student body,” she said. “I look forward to working together to expand opportunities for students, strengthen professional and industry partnerships, and magnify ways design can address pressing challenges, from housing to climate resilience.”

Throughout her career, Zell has championed programs that connect architecture education with real-world applications. At the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, she launched initiatives such as the High School Design Build Summer Camp, which introduces students from underrepresented backgrounds to architecture, and the Design + Construction Initiative, which partners with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to enhance affordable housing solutions. While serving as associate dean, she launched the award winning externship program which connected students to week-long professional job-shadowing opportunities across the country. Zell recently served as president of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) from 2023 to 2024, where she emphasized creating inclusive pathways in architecture and expanding the impact of faculty research.

Zell’s current research was funded as part of a $3.4M Department of Energy Net-Zero Energy Homes grant, awarded to the City of Milwaukee. The grant provides incentives for a manufacturer to move to Milwaukee to fabricate wall systems for net zero housing, funding for the school to test a series of pre-manufactured wall systems, including energy performance, carbon impact, and cost, and gap financing for the construction of 25 net zero housing units. With this funding opportunity, Zell has strengthened the partnerships with industry and the profession and expanded research for students.

Zell earned her master’s in architecture from Yale University and her bachelor’s degree in architecture from the University of Virginia.

Bruno also extended gratitude to Interim Dean William Chapman for his leadership and service. “His dedication and contributions have been instrumental in guiding the School of Architecture, and the university looks forward to celebrating his impact as he transitions from the role and returns to the faculty,” he said.

The University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa Office of the Provost has formally initiated the search for the next dean of the (SOEST). The search advisory committee reporting to Provost Michael Bruno has been established to start the search process.

SOEST is widely recognized as a world-class research and academic institution. It is ranked in the top 1% globally for atmospheric science, earth science and oceanography. The mission of SOEST is to serve society through uplifting and expanding new knowledge about our oceans, Earth, atmosphere and planets, and enhancing the quality of life in �鶹��ý, the nation and across the globe, by providing world-class research and education, contributing to a high-tech economy, and promoting the sustainable and resilient use of the environment.

Denise Konan, dean of the College of Social Sciences, will chair the search advisory committee, whose members are as follows:

• Rosie Alegado, associate professor, Department of Oceanography and UH Sea Grant, Center for Microbial Oceanography: Research and Education, SOEST
• Alex Culley, associate researcher, Pacific Biosciences Research Center, SOEST
• Jenny Engels, ADVANCE grant co-principal investigator, community member
• Jennifer Griswold, associate professor and chair, Department of Atmospheric Sciences, SOEST
• Amir Haroon, assistant professor, �鶹��ý Institute of Geophysics and Planetology, SOEST
• Anita Lopez, director of Research Vessel Operations, RCUH member
• Teresa Medeiros, fiscal manager, UH staff
• Gregory Moore, emeritus professor, Department of Earth Sciences, SOEST
• Yuta Norden, graduate student
• Robert Toonen, professor and Gates Endowed chair, �鶹��ý Institute of Marine Biology, SOEST

The committee will recommend finalists to Provost Bruno, who will then recommend a selectee to the UH president.

The search process has started and will lead into the spring 2025 semester with finalists invited to campus in spring and anticipated start date for the new dean in fall 2025.