Hawaii Pacific University Executive and Leadership Team

Jayne Smitten, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President at Hawaii Pacific University, advances the integration of simulation-based learning within the public health curriculum. Overseeing the development of immersive educational modules, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President ensures students gain practical experience relevant to the Pacific Rim healthcare landscape. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to refine pedagogical strategies that emphasize hands-on learning and critical thinking. By leveraging advanced simulation technology, Jayne Smitten enhances the clinical readiness of graduates entering the workforce. The SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President maintains strong ties with industry partners to ensure curriculum alignment with current public health standards. Through the continuous refinement of simulation protocols, Smitten drives academic innovation and supports the university's commitment to providing a distinct, high-impact educational experience for all students.

Lissa Rodrigues, the Executive Secretary To the President at Hawaii Pacific University, coordinates the administrative operations and strategic communications for the Office of the President. Overseeing the scheduling of high-level meetings and the flow of information between the Board and executive leadership, the Executive Secretary To the President ensures operational continuity across all campuses. This leadership role involves managing complex institutional projects and facilitating collaboration among diverse university departments. By streamlining administrative processes, Lissa Rodrigues supports the President in executing the university's mission of academic excellence and global engagement. The Executive Secretary To the President maintains rigorous standards for institutional correspondence and policy implementation. Through the effective management of executive priorities, Rodrigues enables the leadership team to focus on long-term growth and the expansion of educational programs within the Pacific Rim, ultimately contributing to the overall efficiency of the university's administrative functions.

John Gotanda, the President at Hawaii Pacific University, architects the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth for the state's leading independent university. Overseeing the alignment of academic programs with the needs of the Pacific Rim, the President ensures the institution maintains its reputation for diversity and hands-on learning. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board and external stakeholders to secure the university's financial and academic future. By championing initiatives that bridge the gap between the Honolulu business district and global perspectives, John Gotanda drives the university's market impact. The President collaborates with the entire executive team to foster an environment of innovation and student success. Through the implementation of long-term development plans, Gotanda secures the resources necessary to support over 60 undergraduate and graduate programs, ensuring the university remains a premier destination for students seeking a transformative educational adventure.

Ray Galas, the President Emeritus at Hawaii Pacific University, provides strategic counsel and historical context to the current leadership team regarding institutional development. Overseeing the preservation of the university's core values and mission, the President Emeritus ensures that new initiatives remain grounded in the institution's long-standing commitment to academic excellence. This leadership role involves mentoring emerging administrators and supporting the university's engagement with the broader Pacific Rim community. By offering insights into past operational successes and challenges, Ray Galas assists the current President in navigating complex institutional transitions. The President Emeritus maintains a focus on the university's legacy of diversity and hands-on learning, ensuring these pillars remain central to the strategic planning process. Through the provision of expert guidance, Galas supports the university's ongoing efforts to provide high-quality education and maintain its position as a leading independent institution in the region.

Cody Down, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Hawaii Pacific University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the university's diverse academic mission. Overseeing enterprise systems and cybersecurity protocols, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President ensures seamless connectivity across the Honolulu business district campus and remote military base locations. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that facilitate hands-on learning for students across the Pacific Rim. By integrating advanced data analytics into administrative workflows, Cody Down optimizes operational efficiency and resource allocation. The Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President maintains alignment with the Board regarding long-term digital transformation goals. Through the implementation of robust network security, Down secures the integrity of academic research and student data, ultimately driving the technological advancement of the entire university ecosystem.

Bernard Nunies, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Hawaii Pacific University, manages the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the state's leading independent university. Overseeing faculty recruitment and staff retention initiatives, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution attracts accomplished professionals dedicated to diverse student populations. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive benefits packages and professional development programs that support the university's mission of academic excellence. By fostering an inclusive workplace culture, Bernard Nunies directly impacts the quality of instruction and student support services. The Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with other C-suite leaders to align human capital strategies with the broader institutional goals of the Pacific Rim educational adventure. Through the implementation of equitable compensation structures, Nunies secures a high-performing workforce capable of delivering hands-on learning opportunities across all campus locations.