The University of �鶹��ý Board of Regents (BOR) said UH President Wendy Hensel “exceeded our expectations” in her annual performance evaluation for academic year 2026–2027, shared at the May 21 BOR meeting held at UH West Oʻahu. Regents praised Hensel, who began serving as UH president on January 1, 2025, for her leadership during her first year and expressed confidence in the university’s continued progress.

“Over the past year, President Wendy F. Hensel has demonstrated proactive and highly engaged leadership during her early tenure at the University of �鶹��ý,” said BOR Chair Gabriel Lee in a statement following the evaluation (full statement below). “She has successfully prioritized extensive internal and external stakeholder engagement, navigated significant legislative and budgetary challenges, and launched comprehensive evaluations of system-wide structures.”

The board highlighted several accomplishments during Hensel’s first year, including securing UH’s state budget, leading a successful athletics director search, deploying systemwide student success technologies, increasing access to UH for �鶹��ý public high school students through Direct2UH, and advancing an artificial intelligence integration strategy. Regents also acknowledged major operational challenges the university faced during the evaluation period, including the transition to the new Banner student information system, cybersecurity issues and rapidly shifting federal policies affecting higher education.

“Moving forward, we ask that her focus shift to finalizing major reorganizational goals—such as completing the separation of the Mānoa and System leadership—implementing a new strategic budget model, standardizing student care, completing the health campus consolidations and elevating workforce development,” the statement said.

It concluded with the board expressing appreciation for Hensel’s leadership and optimism for the future.

“The Board of Regents is grateful for her leadership and performance. She exceeded our expectations and we look forward to continued progress together.”

President’s performance evaluation statement from the Board of Regents

May 21, 2026

“Over the past year, President Wendy F. Hensel has demonstrated proactive and highly engaged leadership during her early tenure at the University of �鶹��ý. She has successfully prioritized extensive internal and external stakeholder engagement, navigated significant legislative and budgetary challenges, and launched comprehensive evaluations of system-wide structures.

Key achievements include securing our state budget, executing a successful Athletic Director search, deploying system-wide student success technologies, increasing access to UH from our public high schools through Direct2UH, and advancing a robust Artificial Intelligence integration strategy.

The University has faced distinct operational challenges, including a difficult Banner transition, continued cyber-security challenges, and near-daily disruptions from shifting federal executive orders.

Moving forward, we ask that her focus shift to finalizing major reorganizational goals—such as completing the separation of the Mānoa and System leadership—implementing a new strategic budget model, standardizing student care, completing the health campus consolidations, and elevating workforce development.

The Board of Regents is grateful for her leadership and performance. She exceeded our expectations and we look forward to continued progress together.”

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel highlighted a new scholarship for community college transfer students, reflected on the conclusion of the legislative session, provided an update on the UH ����ԴDz� chancellor search and celebrated recent athletic successes, including a national championship, during her monthly report to the UH Board of Regents (BOR). The update was provided at the May 21 BOR meeting at UH West Oʻahu.

Among the highlights, Hensel announced the new Next Step Scholarship, which will provide eligible UH Community College students up to $2,000 to continue their education at a UH four-year campus. She also discussed key legislative measures affecting UH, including proposals involving tuition and fee reserves and Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) funding for athletics.

Hensel shared that the UH ����ԴDz� chancellor search remains on track, with a finalist expected to be named in June. She also outlined a new strategic budgeting process designed to better align future investments with UH priorities and student success.

The report also included congratulations to more than 5,340 spring graduates across UH’s 10 campuses, recognition of the UH ����ԴDz� men’s volleyball team for winning the NCAA national championship and praise for UH employees who helped raise more than $51,800 and collect 3,300 pounds of food during the 2026 �鶹��ý Foodbank Campaign.

• UH graduation ceremonies ()
• Next Step Scholarship ()
• Legislative session recap ()
• Name, Image and Likeness legislation ()
• Budget planning process ()
• UH ����ԴDz� chancellor search update ()
• Athletics recap ()
• UH Kudos: �鶹��ý Foodbank Campaign ()

University of �鶹��ý alumni and friends braved the winter weather to gather in New York City to meet UH President Wendy Hensel and celebrate �鶹��ý ties in January at the first (UHFAR) Pau Hana of 2026.

The gathering of about 50 was part of UHFAR’s ongoing effort to strengthen bonds between UH alumni and the university. Hensel spoke about the challenges facing the UH system, achievements across campuses, and the powerful role alumni play in supporting students.

“The accomplishments of our alumni demonstrate the power of a UH education,” Hensel said. “When alumni share their stories, support our students, and champion the value of higher education, they amplify our mission in ways no one else can.”

Her message struck a chord with those in the room, inspiring attendees to reflect on how their UH experiences continue to impact their lives.

“Staying connected to the UH ʻohana in New York means carrying �鶹��ý with me—its values, its community and its spirit—no matter how far I roam,” said 2006 UH ����ԴDz� graduate Colonel Rance Lee. “President Hensel’s speech reminded me that our shared roots aren’t just memories; they’re a living bond that continues to guide and unite us.”

Staying connected

The event took place at Arader Galleries, a renowned art and rare book gallery on Madison Avenue. The evening was lively and warm, with alumni from a wide range of industries filling the gallery with conversation and photo-worthy moments.

“As a proud UH ����ԴDz� alumni, connecting with fellow alumni in New York always feels grounding. It brings us back to our time in �鶹��ý, reminds us to slow down, stay present and appreciate the people around us, while living in NYC,” said 2011 UH ����ԴDz� graduate Travonté Taylor.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and .

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel delivered her inaugural systemwide address on January 14, outlining key accomplishments from 2025, addressing challenges facing higher education and setting priorities for the year ahead across UH’s 10-campus system.

The livestreamed address marked the beginning of a new annual tradition intended to promote transparency, accountability and engagement with the UH community. Hensel, who began her tenure on January 1, 2025, framed the address as an opportunity to reflect on progress while charting a clear path forward for the university.

“Today is really a down payment on our commitment to transparency,” Hensel said. “We’ve been trying to do a lot of town halls and conversations about what’s going on in a very difficult time when it’s not so easy to talk about what’s happening. This is our attempt to make sure you know what we’re doing—that we’re delivering the value that the state expects—and also to identify where you can get involved to help us reach where we all want to go together.”

In her remarks, Hensel highlighted major developments from the past year and priorities going into 2026, including enrollment across the 10 campuses topping 51,000 in fall 2025, the highest in eight years; the launch of Direct2UH, an initiative that streamlines admission to UH for �鶹��ý public high school seniors; advancing artificial intelligence across the UH System; building an integrated workforce ecosystem; improving student success, including graduation and retention rates; record extramural funding in FY2025 amid increased uncertainty in 2026; capital improvement project requests; current landscape of collegiate athletics, including the impact of NIL; and UH’s financial outlook, including state appropriations, tuition and fees, grants and reserves.

She also acknowledged ongoing challenges facing the university, such as swiftly changing federal policies, and cuts to federal research grants and awards, as well as underscored the need for continued dialogue and systemwide alignment as UH navigates a rapidly changing higher education landscape in �鶹��ý and across the nation.

The address was livestreamed to ensure broad access for faculty, staff, students and community members across the state.

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel, who began her tenure on January 1, 2025, will deliver her inaugural systemwide address, providing an overview of how UH’s 10 campuses are progressing amid significant changes in higher education in �鶹��ý and nationwide. The event marks the beginning of what will be an annual tradition.

The livestreamed address will highlight key accomplishments from 2025, identify challenges facing the university, and outline goals and priorities for the year ahead, while promoting transparency and deeper engagement with the UH community.

“My intention with this address is to foster transparency, accountability and deeper community engagement across our UH system. It’s important that you know how this administration is working on your behalf and how you can engage in creating a stronger university,” Hensel said in a systemwide email on January 8.

The address will take place on January 14, at 5 p.m. A recording will be posted afterward for those unable to watch live.

Hensel also emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue as UH navigates a pivotal moment for higher education in �鶹��ý and beyond.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and .

This message was shared with the students, faculty and staff of the 10-campus University of �鶹��ý system on December 15, 2025.

Aloha UH ʻohana,

As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to pause and reflect and express my heartfelt mahalo. In just a few weeks, I will mark one year as president of the University of �鶹��ý, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve this extraordinary university in one of the most beautiful and meaningful places in the world.

Throughout the past year, I’ve spent time on our campuses and had the chance to get to know many of you. I have seen your dedication up close in how you learn, work and support one another, especially during moments of challenge and accomplishment. That care is felt everywhere.

To our students, mahalo for placing your trust in UH and for bringing your ideas, energy and voices to our campuses. You inspire us and remind us daily of the purpose of our work.

To our faculty and staff, mahalo for your dedication to teaching, research, service and student success. Your expertise and compassion are the foundation of this institution and make a lasting difference across our state.

As we enter the holiday season, I hope you’re able to rest, recharge and spend meaningful time with loved ones. May this be a time of reflection, renewal and gratitude.

I am so honored to continue this journey with you and look forward to the year ahead as we listen, learn and build together.

With warmest aloha and best wishes for the holidays,

Wendy Hensel
President, University of �鶹��ý

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and .

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel provided an update on the most recent federal policy changes, and outlined how UH is responding, at the March 20 Board of Regents monthly meeting held at Windward Community College.

Hensel gave an overview of the actions and the impacts on the executive orders by the White House. Her presentation was based on her systemwide forum presentation on March 14 with updates that have happened since that time.

Federal Action Forum:

• VIDEO
• VIDEO

She emphasized that there have been no changes to services for students because of the executive orders.

Hensel also highlighted several positive news items:

• UH ����ԴDz� athletics director search launched — ()
• UH ����ԴDz� ranks high in QS World Ranking by subject — ()
• Basic needs grant awarded to UH — ()
• — ()
• UH Wāhine basketball team earns postseason spot — ()

In a special livestreamed address to the University of �鶹��ý 10 campuses and the UH Board of Regents on February 6, UH President Wendy Hensel acknowledged the significant impact of recent federal policy changes on higher education. With multiple executive orders issued by the new administration, Hensel outlined the changes affecting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) programs, research funding, immigration enforcement and Title IX protections.

“While we do not have all the answers, I believe it is important at this point to share with you what we do know and how we plan to proceed as a community,” said Hensel. “I want to assure members of our community that leaders from across the university are meeting regularly and working hard in conjunction with the Board of Regents to determine how we will respond to these orders.”

Hensel also recognized the uncertainty these shifts create, but assured the UH community that leaders across the university are working closely with state and federal officials to navigate these challenges. While UH must comply with the law, she emphasized that federal civil rights and state antidiscrimination laws remain in effect, as well as accreditation requirements related to diversity and equity.

“In the days ahead, we will work together as a community to determine what the law requires and what this university must do in response,” said Hensel. “We no doubt will be faced with difficult choices on which reasonable people will disagree in good faith. We must not let that diminish our resolve to face these issues together.”

Hensel announced the formation of an advisory council that will ensure transparent communication and provide a forum for community input. Additionally, UH will continue to work closely with �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ��’s congressional delegation, Gov. Josh Green’s office, the state attorney general and community partners to advocate for the university’s mission.

“Our faith in the significance and honor of what we do at the university remains strong,” said Hensel. “Our work is critical and transformative for our individual students, our communities, our economy and our world. We will continue to celebrate and elevate our mission to advance knowledge and enrich society as we navigate these changes.”

Hensel also reaffirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to its core values.

“As we weather changes that may feel overwhelming at times, do not lose sight of what remains constant and certain,” said Hensel. “Most importantly, every individual on our campuses is a vital member of our ʻohana. No matter where you came from, who you are, what you believe or who you love, we see you, and you are welcome here.”

Below is a complete transcription of the UH president’s speech.

February 6, 2025 Special Address by UH President Hensel

This message was shared with the students, faculty and staff of the 10-campus University of �鶹��ý system on January 29, 2025.

Aloha UH students, faculty and staff,

Most of you are likely aware of a series of federal executive orders issued over the last week that have created some uncertainty in our community. Just this week, a memorandum was released (and rescinded) that temporarily paused some grants, loans, and financial assistance while the federal government aligns with the new administration’s priorities. I am writing to assure our community that we are paying close attention to these developments and working to address issues as they are identified.

Related: President Hensel addresses federal policy changes, reaffirms commitment to community, February 6, 2025

We are in regular communication with �鶹��ý’s congressional delegation, Gov. Josh Green’s office, the state attorney general, and key federal and community partners so that we may collaborate effectively through this rapidly evolving situation. We are unified in our commitment to ensuring that UH continues to deliver on its core mission of educating all students, fostering innovative research, and creating a welcoming and respectful environment on our campuses.

Because information is changing in real time, it will be important in the days ahead to neither overreact or underreact as the situation evolves. We will continue to monitor events and share updates with our community as we have more information.

Mahalo nui loa for your patience and support,

Wendy Hensel
UH President

University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel toured the campus on January 22 and 23, meeting with students, faculty, staff and leadership as part of her tour of UH’s 10 campuses and six education centers in her first 90 days.

“We all have our own special role to fill and certainly the R1 here at UH ����ԴDz� is an enormous part of that,” Hensel said. “If we can work together, we can elevate the entire system for every one of our students to places we can’t go alone. I’m really excited about that.”

The two-day visit began with a meeting with the UH ����ԴDz� Cabinet, led by Provost Michael Bruno, followed by a campus-wide welcome ceremony on the �鶹��ý Hall lawn, where more than 200 people were in attendance. She also spent the morning touring several culturally significant sites on campus.

“New beginnings and the hope of what’s in front of us and the absolute open arms that people greeted me with,” Hensel said. “More than that, the feeling and the depth of history that’s behind everything on this campus and the culture—I’m just so touched.”

The day continued with a meeting with the ��ū������ʻ�� Council, a lunch with student leaders from the Associated Students of the University of �鶹��ý and the Graduate Student Organization, and discussions with the UH ����ԴDz� Staff Senate.

An open forum at the Campus Center Ballroom concluded the day, and more than 200 people attended in person or watched via livestream. Attendees shared their concerns and thoughts and asked Hensel questions on a wide range of topics including graduate student assistance, general education requirements, generative artificial intelligence and more.

On January 23, Hensel went on a campus tour that lasted almost an hour-and-a-half and met with the UH ����ԴDz� Faculty Senate.

Throughout her visit, Hensel highlighted her commitment to fostering connections and understanding the unique characteristics of each campus. Her presence underscored her intent to engage directly with the university community to build relationships and gain insights.

“Here at UH ����ԴDz�, we recognize we have a special kuleana,” Bruno said. “We are the flagship campus—20,000 students, 5,000 employees and almost 100 academic programs. It’s meaningful for us that the importance, [the] role that we play in the system is recognized and that she will be spending two days here on campus, meeting all of our members of our community.”

UH ����ԴDz� was the second campus Hensel visited statewide after starting with UH West Oʻahu on January 14.

President Hensel’s campus/education centers remaining schedule:

President Hensel campus visit recaps

• Monday, January 27 –
• Monday, February 3 –
• Wednesday, February 5 – Leeward CC
• Monday, February 10 –
• Tuesday, February 11 –
• Tuesday, February 18 –
• Monday, February 24 –
• Tuesday February 25 – and
• Monday, March 3 – and
• Tuesday, March 4 –
• Wednesday, March 5 – and
• Monday, March 24 –

For more information about President Hensel, visit the Meet President Hensel webpage. She is also active on social media and encourages the UH community to connect with her on , (formerly Twitter) and .

Oli (chants) were offered outside the Nāulu Center at the University of �鶹��ý–W����� Oʻahu on January 14, marking the start of a traditional ceremony to welcome new UH President Wendy Hensel, who officially started on January 1. The Native Hawaiian protocol honored Hensel’s arrival, and formally extended an invitation to the campus. The UH West Oʻahu visit is Hensel’s first stop on a tour of the 10-campus UH system and education centers throughout her first 90 days on the job.

“There’s so much heart here. There’s so many people who are deeply invested in this university,” said Hensel. “For me to be a champion of this community I need to understand that. I’m beyond excited to make the personal connections, to hear the stories, to really understand the place and the ʻāina (land) and ʻohana (family).”

Honoring Honouliuli

A highlight of the ceremony was the chanting of Mele Honouliuli by UH West Oʻahu faculty, staff and students. The chant honors the Honouliuli ahupuaʻa, the area where the nearly 300-acre campus sits.

“It really is an opportunity for everyone, our visitors, newcomers like the president, as well as those people who are Indigenous to this place to always recognize the shoulders on which we stand,” said UH West Oʻahu Chancellor Maenette Benham. “That’s why it’s so important that we do a kīpaepae (protocol tradition) of welcome.”

Building connections

Throughout the day, Hensel met with governance groups, faculty, staff and the campus leadership team, emphasizing her dedication to pilina, a Native Hawaiian concept of interconnectedness and enduring relationships.

UH West Oʻahu sociology major and student leader Aralen Hāʻilima Haiola described UH’s new president as genuine and authentic.

“One of my big takeaways was probably just knowing that she’s here for our students,” said Haiola. “She’s not here just to ʻdrop the ship’ as she said. She’s gonna stay here. She’s gonna continue to see us. She’s going to continue to be a big supporter of all the students. And we’re her favorites, so I love that part!”

The visit concluded with an open forum on the West Oʻahu campus, providing approximately 80 students and employees in attendance with an opportunity to share their insights directly. Similar forums will take place at every campus on Hensel’s tour.

President Hensel campus/education centers visit schedule

President Hensel campus visit recaps

• Tuesday, January 14 –
• Wednesday, January 22 –
• Thursday, January 23 – UH Mānoa
• Monday, January 27 –
• Monday, February 3 –
• Wednesday, February 5 – Leeward CC
• Monday, February 10 –
• Tuesday, February 11 –
• Tuesday, February 18 –
• Monday, February 24 –
• Tuesday February 25 – and
• Monday, March 3 – and
• Tuesday, March 4 –
• Wednesday, March 5 – and
• Monday, March 24 –

For more information about President Hensel, visit the Meet President Hensel webpage. She is also active on social media and encourages the UH community to connect with her on , (formerly Twitter) and .

New University of �鶹��ý President Wendy Hensel will visit each of the 10 UH campuses and six of the university system’s nine education centers during her first 90 days in office. Hensel began her role as the 16th president of the state’s public higher education system on January 1, 2025.

The schedule is below and specific details will be announced by individual campuses. Each visit will feature an open campus forum—welcoming participation from all campus community members—along with meetings with student, faculty and staff governance groups, as well as the administration’s leadership team. In a January 6 message to the UH community, Hensel expressed her commitment to building meaningful connections through pilina, a Native Hawaiian concept that has been shared with her.

“It is fitting that pilina encompasses not only relationships, but also more broadly interdependence, interwovenness, and deep connections that span place, time and generations,” said Hensel. “Although recognizing that my pilina with �鶹��ý and many of you is just beginning, it seems clear that it will be the foundation for the work we can and must do together for the thriving future �鶹��ý deserves.”

President Hensel campus/education centers visit schedule

• Tuesday, January 14 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Wednesday, January 22 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Thursday, January 23 – UH Mānoa
• Monday, January 27 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Monday, February 3 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Wednesday, February 5 – Leeward CC —Read a recap of the visit.
• Monday, February 10 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Tuesday, February 11 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Tuesday, February 18 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Monday, February 24 – —Read a recap of the visit.
• Tuesday February 25 – and —Read a recap of the visit.
• Monday, March 3 – and —Read a recap of the visit.
• Wednesday, March 5 – and —Read a recap of the visit.
• Monday, March 24 –
• Tuesday, April 8 –

Hensel has emphasized her commitment to attending as many campus events as her schedule allows while acclimating to her new role and navigating her first legislative session, which runs from January 15 to May 2. She is also meeting with county, state and local business leaders. Her top priority is visiting the campuses and education centers.

“Understanding first-hand how each campus uniquely contributes to the beautiful mosaic that makes up our UH community will be invaluable,” said Hensel. “With this knowledge, we can build a strong system that is capable of achieving excellence together that is otherwise unreachable alone. I promise to take your lead, listen with an open heart and mind, and learn about who you are, and share who I am as a human being to set the foundation for all the other work that lies ahead.”

For more information about President Hensel, visit the Meet President Hensel webpage. She is also active on social media and encourages the UH community to connect with her on , (formerly Twitter) and .

This message was shared with the students, faculty and staff of the 10-campus University of �鶹��ý system on January 6, 2025.

Aloha mai kākou,

I feel privileged and excited to begin my tenure as UH System president. The opportunity to share with and learn so much from this community, as touched on in my first message to the UH ʻohana on January 2. Together all of us—students, faculty, staff and community members—have the opportunity to continue to shape UH as a strong 10-campus system that fulfills its kuleana to Native Hawaiians and �鶹��ý. Your contributions and dedication are crucial in this journey. What a profound responsibility!

Among the many things shared with me since beginning this journey with you is the concept of pilina. It is fitting that pilina encompasses not only relationships, but also more broadly interdependence, interwovenness, and deep connections that span place, time, and generations. Although recognizing that my pilina with �鶹��ý and many of you is just beginning, it seems clear that it will be the foundation for the work we can and must do together for the thriving future �鶹��ý deserves.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

Mahalo for the opportunities thus far to strengthen pilina with each of you. To build upon that beginning with intention, I will be visiting each of our 10 campuses and workforce development sites over the first 90 days of my presidency to talk story with you, experience the land upon which each campus is built, and engage with the communities you come from. While we surely won’t cover all things in one visit, we can start there.

Understanding first-hand how each campus uniquely contributes to the beautiful mosaic that makes up our UH community will be invaluable. With this knowledge, we can build a strong system that is capable of achieving excellence together that is otherwise unreachable alone. I promise to take your lead, listen with an open heart and mind, and learn about who you are, and share who I am as a human being to set the foundation for all the other work that lies ahead. Your perspectives and experiences are critical to our university’s future success, and I want to emphasize my commitment to learning from them.

The strengthening of our pilina will take time, and your presence and participation are deeply appreciated. I look forward to seeing you soon.

With aloha,
Wendy

Learn more about UH President Hensel.

This message was shared with the students, faculty and staff of the 10-campus University of �鶹��ý system on January 2, 2025.

Aloha!

I hope your holiday season was relaxing and filled with the joy of time spent with family and friends. I am truly honored today to begin my tenure as your new president. Thanks to all of you who have warmly welcomed my husband and me to the UH ʻohana. I look forward to meeting the members of our community in the days and months ahead.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

Stepping into this role is both exciting and humbling because of UH’s importance to so many. I share with our community the tremendous responsibility of ensuring that UH continues to serve its vital role in �鶹��ý and build on its upward trajectory in many critical areas. We have important work to do together providing affordable, high-quality education, conducting groundbreaking research that matters, fulfilling our kuleana to being a Native Hawaiian place of learning and commitment to being an Indigenous-serving and inspired institution, expanding workforce development in service to our state, and so much more. Fortunately, as we begin 2025, we have a solid foundation of excellence across our 10-campus system, and I thank departing President David Lassner for his devotion and service to UH.

As a new member of this ʻohana, I look forward to getting to know each and every member of our community, building pilina and learning about what is important to you. I will be a regular presence at events across the university and hope to meet you personally as I visit each campus and workforce center in the next ninety days. Details on these visits will be shared in the days ahead. In the meantime, I invite you to learn more about me on the “Meet the President” webpage. My top priority will always be our students. Whether they are starting a two-week workforce training program or completing a PhD, I believe it is our moral obligation to ensure their success and prepare them for our rapidly changing future.

My husband Kenton and I were fortunate to spend the holidays in �鶹��ý surrounded by the love of our children and friends, and we are reminded time and again of the warmth of �鶹��ý and its people. We are fully committed to this community, its people, and the success of UH. While words are a start, my actions will ultimately define my leadership.

I am excited about the future of UH and confident that, together, we can build upon UH’s proud legacy and continue innovating, inspiring and leading. Mahalo nui loa for your support and Happy New Year!

With Aloha,

Wendy Hensel
UH President

The University of �Ჹ�ɲ���ʻ��’s new president, Wendy Hensel, steps into her role on January 1, 2025, with a clear vision for the 10-campus system, the state’s sole provider of public higher education.

For Hensel, UH is more than just a renowned university system—it’s a community rich in culture, diversity, and potential. With a leadership style rooted in compassion, collaboration, and innovation, Hensel is poised to tackle key challenges, including her unwavering commitment to improving student success, embracing new technologies, and amplifying UH’s impact on a global scale.

Hensel brings a wealth of experience to her new role at UH. Her tenure at The City University of New York (CUNY), as the Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost for the 25-campus system, serving more than 230,000 students, has equipped her with invaluable insights and strategies. Before CUNY, Hensel held leadership positions at Georgia State University, where she served as the Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Dean of the College of Law (Read Hensel’s full CV).

In the second installment of a two-part interview with UH News (read the first installment), Hensel reflects on her journey, her passion for education, and her commitment to sustaining UH as a beacon of excellence and moving it forward for future generations.

What drew you to the University of �鶹��ý?

First of all, I love �鶹��ý. I love its people, its beauty, and its spirit. It is critically important to me to be in a place where people care about each other and have a strong sense of community, like UH. This is where I want to lay down roots for the long term.

Throughout my career, I’ve been attracted to opportunities where I could significantly impact places like this that are highly diverse, where I’m surrounded by people with different perspectives and backgrounds who are working for a better future for everyone. That kind of environment inspires me and is something I am excited to be a part of. Diverse backgrounds lead to the very best kind of innovative thinking and spirit of community. By focusing on our connections and navigating through our divisions, we can chart a path forward together that benefits our UH ʻohana and beyond.

What qualities do you possess that will help you lead UH?

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

I have a strong, proactive strategic perspective and focus on leading into the future rather than simply reacting to crises as they arise. That is something I’ve done my whole career, and it’s become increasingly critical as the pace of change facing higher education has escalated. To be successful, we must build innovative, strong teams that are capable of solving the highly complex, interdisciplinary problems facing our communities. Leading UH means more than just advancing this university system. We have a fundamental responsibility to the state as a whole — our universities are anchor institutions in our islands and local communities. I am looking forward to working with constituencies in and outside of the university to improve life for our people across the state.

Another strength I bring to the table is an unshakeable belief in this university UH needs to see itself as it truly is: one of the worldʻs best systems of higher education that offers excellence at a low cost. Together, we can change the narrative of being the best-kept secret in our own backyard and highlight the tremendous work taking place on each of our ten campuses.

We have accomplished so much already, but there is still more to do. We must address in new ways all barriers to student success, not just tinkering around the edges, but approaching challenges from a design perspective. Some powerful new technologies and approaches are in play that have not yet been adopted at UH. These advancements could be transformative for our students.

How do you plan to meet UH’s kuleana (responsibility) to Native Hawaiians and Native Hawaiian knowledge?

I deeply feel the sense of responsibility to Native Hawaiians that lies on my shoulders. I am committed to doing everything that I can to eradicate equity gaps wherever we find them, both within our university and outside of it, and to elevate and celebrate UH’s unique role as a place of Native Hawaiian learning. I recognize that I have a lot to learn, and I will ask throughout my tenure, how can I best serve in this role? I’m here to learn in every way I can through participating in community events, engaging in scholarship, and listening and hearing your truth. I’m ready to embark on this journey together.

How do you see technology shaping the future of UH?

Integrating technology throughout the UH System is key to the future of our 10 campuses and the collective futures of the people and state we serve. We must be �鶹��ý’s technology leaders, especially with the explosion of artificial intelligence. We are educators, and this is one of the biggest education revolutions in human existence. We have to be at the forefront, leading the way. I’ve heard from many stakeholders, including business leaders and elected officials, that this is an area in which UH urgently needs to take the lead.

One example you cited of using technology to help students is how Georgia State addressed “summer melt”?

Summer melt is the time between when students commit to attend and when they show up for the fall semester. We found that the students who failed to show up were overwhelmingly from our lowest-income zip codes. There was a 30% dropout rate before they even started.

We did a study and realized a couple of things. The information we were providing wasn’t tailored to the individual, and in our attempt to communicate, we actually overwhelmed them. In response, we created a chatbot that answered thousands of the most common questions immediately. If the chatbot couldn’t answer a question, it would notify an advisor to follow up directly with the student within 24 hours.

We were able to tailor individualized responses at scale for somewhere around 10,000 incoming freshmen, answering their questions within three seconds when they were most likely to ask, which turned out to be between midnight and 2 in the morning. In some cases, students were more likely to ask the chatbot a question than an advisor because the question involved embarrassing personal information. As a result, we reduced the dropout melt rate by 30% in the first year and continued to improve over time. The effort had a positive impact on thousands of students who might never have entered the university.

How else can data be used to support students?

Data can be used to flag when a moment of crisis is coming versus the moment it has already arrived. We can monitor and identify historical markers of distress, such as a sudden drop in grades or a missed financial aid payment, and use those markers to trigger an intervention at that moment. The goal is to keep our students on the path to success with immediate real-time interventions even with limited personnel.

What do you hope to accomplish in your first 100 days on the job?

I’m most focused on getting to know people, getting a sense of place and what’s important, and the challenges for people on the ground. That is job number one because I can only represent this community by understanding who this community is and becoming its champion. My goal is to build the trust that will be the foundation for any work we do in the future.

How does it feel to be the next president of the University of �鶹��ý?

In a word — amazing! If you had told me as a child that this is where I would be at this moment, I would have never believed you. It’s pretty cool when life exceeds your expectations.

Resilience, compassion and purpose define the life and career of Wendy Hensel, who will be the new president of the University of �鶹��ý 10-campus system on January 1, 2025. A widow at 40 and now a married mother of four in a blended family, Hensel’s personal tragedy and triumphs have led to a leadership philosophy rooted in empathy and action. From her beginnings as a lawyer-turned-educator to her rise through academic leadership roles at Georgia State University and the City University of New York (CUNY), she has consistently prioritized collaboration and the power of education to uplift diverse communities.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

Born in Grand Rapids and raised in Michigan, Hensel earned a bachelor’s with highest honors from Michigan State University, and is a cum laude graduate of Harvard Law School.

In part one of a two-part interview with UH News, Hensel shares her journey, perspective and values. Read the second installment of the interview.

You knew your career path from a young age?

I always loved learning and was in public schools up until Harvard Law School. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be either a lawyer or a teacher, and so when I had the chance to be both, I jumped at it. I love developing human potential, just helping people reach their personal goals. I enjoy learning and problem solving, and I always have.

In third grade I knew I wanted to be a lawyer because we had a little mini trial. Somebody had stolen candy or something to that effect and we had to figure out who did it. And I was just so excited that I came up with the right questions. I thought, oh, that’s what I want to do! I want to solve problems and ask the questions. The interest in teaching was also always there, but I never thought becoming a professor was something I could achieve.

Tell us about your shift from a successful legal career to teaching at Georgia State University?

I enjoyed practicing law but the impact was limited, and often litigation feels like it’s not really productive. That’s putting it nicely. I was pregnant with my first child and saw a job advertisement for a non-tenure track position teaching legal writing, and I thought, well, that would be really fun for a few years while I think about what might be next. I was fortunate enough to get that job, and then just totally fell in love with my students. I loved that they were coming from different backgrounds, that most of them were not privileged, that they really wanted this education, and to get it required real sacrifice and skin in the game.

Any memorable moments from those early teaching days?

I remember a young woman who came to my office crying saying, “I just don’t think I’m cut out for this. I didn’t do really great on my exams.” And I sat there and spoke with her for probably two hours saying, “what is it that brought you here?”

I said, “you need to see in you what I see in you, which is the tremendous promise of somebody whose potential is unlimited.” I told her, “I’m here to talk to you in those moments when you say, ‘I don’t belong here.’ You don’t need an appointment, shoot me an email and I’ll be your cheerleader in the process.” And she ended up doing really well in the class. Long story short, she is thriving now. We are still in touch and she has told me that I changed her life’s trajectory. The thing that has been really cool about this process (applying for UH President) is that people that I don’t even remember well or haven’t spoken with for years have reached out and said, you don’t realize how foundational you were to my success. Their words of support have been incredibly meaningful to me.

What did you learn from the transition from professor to administrator?

The joke at Georgia State is that I held every position but president, including non-tenure track and tenure track faculty positions, and administrative positions as associate dean, dean, and finally Provost. That diversity gave me a great perspective of the importance of everyone at a university—that people contribute differently in their positions but in equally meaningful ways. We are a team across the university with staff and faculty. I think it’s easy sometimes for people who’ve only been in one position to not recognize that. My work at the system level with CUNY amplified that, as I learned that what we could accomplish together exceeded what any one campus was capable of doing on their own.

You say a pivotal moment in your life was losing your husband.

He had just turned 40 and was actually in great health at the time of his death. I was with him when it happened. I had a nine-year-old son with autism and an 11-year-old daughter at the time. That horrible event shaped me into who I am today. I always have my priorities straight, always. People often say, “how do you stay so calm under pressure?” And the answer is, I know who I am, I know what’s most important to me, and I keep my eye on the ball. That grounds me.

Nothing could possibly be harder, I don’t think, than what I’ve already experienced. That kind of tragedy teaches you to treasure the present. To really appreciate, even in the hard times, the value of the present and your family.

How has your role as a mother shaped you as a leader?

I can tell you with certainty, it has made me a more compassionate human being, a softer human being. The experience with my children has taught me to recognize the value of kindness especially in moments of crisis, and how much it means to people to feel listened to and understood. My son, Luke, has autism, and I’ve learned that I am most effective in communicating with him when I am clear and compassionate, and that has affected and improved my style as an administrator.

He just graduated from Landmark College with a computer science degree. Whatever his best life is, I’m excited for him to find it. His whole life, he has wanted to move to Denver, and I decided his best chance for success was to support that, so we moved him there right before we completed the move to Honolulu. Mom is worried but Mom believes in him. My daughter, Grace, is a social worker who is now gravitating towards special education and wants to transition to being a teacher. She’s considering moving to �鶹��ý.

You and your husband Kenton have four children altogether?

I have the two that are mine and two that became mine when I remarried. Isabella, is 19 and a new freshman at the University of Georgia. Her older sister, Meylene, is 23 and was adopted from Nicaragua. She has some developmental delays from early childhood, but she is living her best life in supported housing and working in a cafeteria at an elementary school. It’s a wonderful time for young people with disabilities because finally society recognizes that there’s tremendous value in people with differences and, with the right support, they can live happy, productive and independent lives.

They were little when Kenton and I got together, so they are absolutely my children, too.

Any words that you live by?

My favorite quote is: “I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become.” Bad things happen and it’s our job to figure out the best way to make it meaningful and to move forward. For me, the meaning is helping others in difficult situations. And you don’t delay happiness, I never delay happiness. I don’t think if only I can get through this, then I’ll be happy. There is always something to be grateful for, and joy is waiting out there to be found in unexpected places.

The transition to new leadership at the University of �鶹��ý is well underway as Wendy Hensel works with retiring President David Lassner and campus leadership to assume the presidency of the 10-campus system on January 1, 2025. Hensel has been actively preparing for her new role while wrapping up her responsibilities as executive vice chancellor and university provost at the City University of New York (CUNY). Her last day at CUNY was Monday, November 25.

“All of my attention is now directly toward �鶹��ý, and I am committed to being as prepared as possible to lead this incredible institution on day one,” Hensel said. “While there is a steep learning curve, I am so grateful for the gifts of support, knowledge, and insight provided by so many stakeholders who are uniform in their passion for the University of �鶹��ý. I have enjoyed discussions with members of our UH community and engaging in early conversations with �鶹��ý’s leaders to ensure a smooth transition. Everyone has been very generous with their time and support, which I appreciate tremendously.”

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

In addition to meeting with outgoing UH President David Lassner, Hensel has connected with the Governor, members of the legislature, �鶹��ý’s congressional delegation members, officers and some of the key executives of the university, leadership from the �鶹��ý Department of Education and the University of �鶹��ý Professional Assembly, and other UH and business and community leaders.

“Once on the ground in �鶹��ý, I am really looking forward to meeting with other members of the campus leadership teams and groups like Pūkoʻa, the All Campus Council of Faculty Senate Chairs, the Staff Council, and the UH Student Caucus,” said Hensel. “Our conversations during the search process were illuminating, and I am eager to learn more about their thoughts on how we can collaborate together on behalf of UH.”

She is also in the early stages of organizing visits to each UH campus and meeting with Regents.

“Understanding issues and budgets is clearly a priority, but nothing is more important than the people that make up our community,” said Hensel. “I am eager to engage across our 10-campus system to get to know and hear from as many people as possible so that we can begin to build a forward vision together. I can’t wait to get started and look forward to our road ahead next year.”

University of �鶹��ý President David Lassner addressed the November 19 announcement that UH ����ԴDz� Athletic Director Craig Angelos’ tenure will conclude on December 1 at the UH Board of Regents November 21 meeting.

Full remarks: Response to Public Oral and Written Testimony and Media Frenzy

First, let me thank those who provided testimony online and in-person here today. I appreciated the respectful and passionate expression of your opinions and views. Sadly, some of the written testimony to the Board of Regents that is publicly posted includes the ugly lies and conspiracy theories circulating on social media and online.

I have supervised university employees, both unionized and exempt, for some 40 years. I understand the processes involved and get professional HR help when necessary. In the course of my career I have hired many people, and I am very happy to report that I have had been responsible for many, many fewer exits. Some exits have involved people I had hired and some were existing employees. Behaving professionally and respectfully throughout that difficult process has also meant doing my best to assist folks with opportunities for future employment.

In my opinion the UH ����ԴDz� Athletic Director is the second hardest job in the University and one of the hardest jobs in �鶹��ý. I will return to the hiring process shortly, since that has been the subject of some of the outright lies circulating. But to be clear, I personally selected Mr. Angelos to serve as AD with the advice and counsel of a Search Advisory Committee of internal and external constituents and ultimately with the approval of the BOR.

We have met regularly since he has been hired, typically twice a month if our schedules have not interfered. I have shared my assessments with him throughout that time, and he has agreed or not agreed with my comments and my feedback to him with suggestions. In addition, as part of the standard UH annual executive evaluation process we conduct an anonymous online survey of constituents regarding our executives, both objective and subjective, that we refer to as a “360.” Outside of HR, only the supervisor has access to those results and for the AD that is me. I also receive verbal feedback, solicited and unsolicited, from internal and external stakeholders and colleagues on a regular basis. This culminates in an annual performance evaluation discussion that brings the year together.

I absolutely acknowledge Mr. Angelos’ leadership and roles in some of the accomplishments he cites that are echoed by his supporters. Positives and accomplishments are part of his and everyone’s performance assessment. And since university presidents comprise the boards of athletic conferences, and many actions involve multiple parties, I know more than a simple list of accomplishments captures about the many contributors to some of these items and their status. As I know full well from my own performance evaluations conducted by my former bosses and now by the Board, a list like that is important but does not capture the totality of the performance of an executive. My job is to make sure that this critical position is held by someone who can lead all aspects of our athletic program, internally and externally, with its incredibly diverse internal and external constituents. Especially as we head into a future that will look very different than the past.

As both Mr. Angelos and I have stated, the separation was based on my overall evaluation of his performance. Mr. Angelos has clearly expressed his disagreement with my evaluation and feedback. I can certainly believe that he felt “blindsided” by the separation at this time. But to believe that my evaluation and feedback was never discussed with would be a false assumption. While the details of employee performance assessments are private, Mr. Angelos was in every one of those discussions with me.

Let me respond to the question of timing of the announcement. I earlier came to the conclusion that separation was needed, but did not believe it would be in the best interests of the university to take this action while the presidential search was underway. This reaction over the past week demonstrates exactly why—it would quickly have become a major distraction and might have overwhelmed that absolutely critical search.

At the same time I did not believe that I could or should leave the next president to solve a problem that I believed existed, particularly one that was a result of my own decision making. I would think, or at least hope, that any responsible leader would act the same way. Hence this somewhat awkward timing. Those around me know that while I am retiring on December 31, I have in no way stopped doing my job and will continue to do so until my last day as President. Although I am in contact with incoming President Hensel and informed her of this action, I did not seek her counsel nor guidance on the specifics of this matter.

Now let me turn to the disgraceful personal attacks that have been launched by anonymous haters in the community, some of which are shamefully repeated in the written testimony submitted for this meeting. I am grateful that all of our live testifiers, in contrast with some of what was submitted in writing, were factual and respectful. I know that the live testifiers genuinely care about UH Athletics, and from their perspective believe Craig Angelos is the right AD for UH ����ԴDz� at this crucial time. But some of the written testifiers are perpetuating a particularly nasty web of lies. While I am sad to think this way, it raises questions about the identities of the anonymous individuals that are fighting so viciously and what is it they believe they will lose with the departure of AD Angelos. I will leave others to speculate or investigate these persons and their motivations, including whether there is any liability for their actions. But to correct some of the outright lies being promulgated:

• When it was time to hire a successor to the prior AD there was never any doubt that I would create a search advisory committee. This is the process I have used to fill every executive position that reports to me and the suggestion that I was pressured or forced to form a committee is an outright lie.
• I was not trying to hire Lois Manin as AD. While her application was private, as she has now publicly disclosed she was selected as a finalist for the position by the search advisory committee. Finalists were interviewed by the search advisory committee, by me and by others. I selected AD Angelos over her and the other finalists for the position and I defended that appointment when I brought it to the BOR for approval. To suggest I wanted to hire her at that time is an outright lie; if I had wanted to hire her as AD I had every opportunity to do so.
• The primary target of the attacks who is accused of trying to oust the AD, Associate AD Manin, who will become Acting AD, has publicly announced that she will not apply for the AD position when President Hensel commences the next search. Ms. Manin is an at-will employee who will serve under the next AD subject to the same employment terms as all UH executives, as she has under the last two ADs. I respect the job she has done and the personal integrity she has displayed throughout these attacks.
• The accusations of a coup by individuals inside the department or my rewarding my friends are outright lies. I am not social friends with the individuals being viciously attacked. They are certainly professional colleagues, as are hundreds of other UHers in the Athletic Dept and throughout the university. I do not know where these individuals live, they have never been to my home and I do not believe I have shared a meal with them other than perhaps at some athletic event. Neither individual ever called or reached out to me to express concerns about AD Angelos. Not once.
• Nastier allegations online are even worse and I will not dignify them with a denial. Everyone involved in these attacks, either creating them or promulgating them, whether they are ever held accountable legally or otherwise, should be absolutely ashamed of themselves and hope they are never caught in a similar web of lies.

As Mr. Angelos shared in his public statement, it is time to move forward and for him to seek his next great opportunity in intercollegiate athletics. While he of course disagreed and was not happy with my decision to separate, he and I did agree to a schedule for announcing his departure that we believed would have been in the best interests of both the university and his future job prospects under the very difficult circumstances.

Within 24 hours the news was leaked to the sports media on the continent and the lies began. So let me share some messages that I have held back, hoping rationality would prevail.

For the haters and liars—I tell you as someone in a position that is responsible to hire AD and other executives: your actions to create a social media firestorm of support with no ethics or morals is not likely to help Mr. Angelos win the trust of prospective employers. There is enough drama in this business, especially now, without adding to the permanent online record your lies about the circumstances of his departure from UH. If he does not think he can call you off I am asking you to do so now, for his future job prospects as well as for good of the student athletes and coaches you claim to support.

For the donors, boosters, sponsors and fans who have been drawn into this false narrative and web of conspiracy theories—I love your passion for UH ����ԴDz� athletics and I always will. Your cheering, your screams, your shakas, your donations, your sponsorships, your incredible willingness to travel to support are teams—these are not things you do for an Athletic Director, and I am certainly aware they are not things you do for a President, especially not for me right now. Your passion is and should be for our amazing student athletes and our coaches, who represent our university and our state with honor and with pride. If you withhold your support because you disagree with my decision about what is best for UH and the program, you are only hurting the student athletes and coaches I know you want to support.

To the student athletes, coaches and staff of our beloved Athletic Deptartment—I care deeply about UH ����ԴDz� Athletics and believe my actions have been necessary, appropriate and professional. I know that many of you including those here today do not agree with me, and I absolutely respect your opinion, which I’m sure is well-founded based on what you see. I urge you to put this behind you and focus on student-athlete success on the court, in the field and in the classroom. The passion of our community is clear and evident, and that passion is for you, not for the President and not for the AD, whoever is in those roles at any point in time. We are in a time of incredible change in intercollegiate athletics, the most dynamic in history. If you have specific suggestions regarding what should be continued, what should change, and where we should head moving forward—please, please share those ideas with me and with incoming Acting AD Manin. This is not a time to stand still, and your ideas are critical.

And to one last group that has stayed below the radar—I think we all know that when this sort of frenzy is created anyone who does not agree is quickly shouted down or just stays silent. So I want to thank those who have reached out to me privately to either thank me because you agree with my action or just to express confidence in my decision-making and my integrity. You may not be loud, but you are heard too.

Let me close by saying that I have been at the center of many difficult decisions and many controversies in my 11 years a president. While I regret the shameful leaks, lies and vicious attacks that characterize this situation, I say honestly and with my head held high to the regents, to all of you here, to the Athletic Deptartment to the University and to the public at-large—I have never done anything but act in what I truly believe to be in the best interests of this University that I love. And this action was no different.

Go Bows!

The University of �鶹��ý Board of Regents (BOR) voted to appoint Wendy Hensel as the next president of the UH 10-campus system, the state’s sole provider of public higher education. The 11 regents voted unanimously for Hensel at the Thursday, October 17 continuation of the October 16 Special BOR Meeting at UH ����ԴDz�. The appointment is effective January 2025.

“Today’s announcement is the culmination of an exhaustive, extensive, nationwide search and hiring process, where our stakeholders were able to participate at every stage,” said BOR Chair Gabe Lee. “I am confident that Wendy Hensel is the right person to lead UH and help guide the state through the significant challenges ahead.”

Hensel is currently the Executive Vice Chancellor and University Provost at the City University of New York (CUNY) and has served in that position since 2022. CUNY is a 25-campus system with an enrollment of 235,000 students.

Stay connected with President Wendy Hensel by following her on , , and

“There is one thing that stands out as I have gone through this process and spoken to literally hundreds of people, and that is how important the University of �鶹��ý is to the state and the people of �鶹��ý, especially the faculty, staff and administrators who are so committed to its mission,” said Hensel. “I humbly accept this position knowing that I have to lead by example and that I need everyone’s support to do everything possible to make sure �鶹��ýis the institution of higher education that �鶹��ý needs and deserves.”

Prior to CUNY, Hensel held leadership positions at Georgia State University as the Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the College of Law. She is a cum laude graduate of Harvard Law School and earned a bachelor’s degree with highest honors from Michigan State University, where she was a Harry S. Truman Scholar ​​and an intern at the U.S. Supreme Court. Read Hensel’s full CV.

The Board of Regents and Hensel agreed to the following terms:

• $675,000 annual salary
• $7,000 a month housing allowance
• Up to $60,000 for moving expenses
• Tenure fallback position in the UH ����ԴDz� William S. Richardson School of Law
• Term: three years with up to a two year extension subject to BOR approval

Extensive nationwide search

Hensel will succeed David Lassner who announced in September 2023, that he would retire at the end of 2024 after serving as president for more than 11 years. The extensive nationwide search for his replacement attracted 93 applicants.

The Presidential Search Advisory Group, volunteer representatives from UH stakeholder and governance groups who developed the position description and leadership profile, identified and interviewed 12 semi finalists. Three finalists were selected and two agreed to continue the process and participated in public events that included question and answer sessions and private meetings with stakeholders groups.

“Mahalo to the search advisory group and to thousands of people who participated in the process by completing the initial public survey and forums on what we need in a UH president,” said Lee. “And those who attended the public forums and provided feedback to the regents, which really helped inform our decision. It was invaluable.”