State Senators Michelle Kidani (District 18 – Mililani Town, Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia), Donovan Dela Cruz (District 17 – Portion of Mililani, Mililani Mauka, portion of Waipi‘o Acres, Launani Valley, Wahiawā, Whitmore Village), and Donna Mercado Kim (Distict 14 – Kapālama, ‘Ālewa, Kalihi, Kalihi Valley, Ft. Shafter, Moanalua Gardens & Valley, Red Hill) issued a joint statement today responding to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser article that mischaracterized their concerns regarding University of Hawaiʻi (UH) President David Lassner:
"The recent article in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser portrayed our stance on the University of Hawaiʻi and its administration in a distorted manner. We did not call for the resignation of President David Lassner outright.
Our criticism stems from our interactions with him and feedback that we have received from students, faculty, parents, former regents, and members of the university community who feel that a change in leadership may be necessary.
As legislators, it is our responsibility to convey the concerns of our constituents and ensure accountability of all government agencies, including the University of Hawaiʻi, and their leaders.
Despite our position on President Lassner’s performance, we firmly believe that the final decision on the leadership and future direction of the university system continues to rest with the Board of Regents."
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