Hawaii Pacific University Executive and Leadership Team

David Kostecki, the Chief Financial Officer at Hawaii Pacific University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Kostecki directs all budgetary planning, financial reporting, and resource allocation processes to support the university's diverse academic programs. By overseeing the financial infrastructure, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that capital investments align with the strategic goals of the university. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous compliance standards while optimizing operational efficiency across all campuses. David Kostecki monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to provide the Board with accurate financial insights. Through careful management of institutional assets, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary funding for student services and faculty research initiatives. Ultimately, Kostecki drives the financial stability required to maintain the university's position as a leading independent educational institution in the Pacific region.

John Gotanda, the President at Hawaii Pacific University, provides the overarching strategic vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Gotanda directs the university's mission to deliver high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs while expanding the reach of the institution across the Pacific Rim. By overseeing the executive team and collaborating with the Board, the President ensures that all academic and operational initiatives align with the core values of diversity and hands-on learning. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, donors, and the broader community. John Gotanda fosters partnerships that enhance the university's reputation and secure its future growth. Through consistent engagement with faculty and students, the President maintains a focus on academic excellence and student success. Ultimately, Gotanda drives the strategic direction that positions the university as a premier independent institution in the heart of Honolulu.

Jayne Smitten, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President at Hawaii Pacific University, leads the development of advanced simulation-based learning methodologies within the public health curriculum. Smitten directs the integration of clinical simulation technologies to provide students with practical, hands-on experience in complex healthcare scenarios. By overseeing the design of immersive educational modules, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President ensures that students gain the critical skills necessary for professional success. This leadership role involves mentoring faculty on the application of simulation tools to improve learning outcomes. Jayne Smitten collaborates with academic leaders to align simulation programs with current public health standards and industry requirements. Through the application of innovative teaching techniques, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President enhances the university's reputation for excellence in health education. Ultimately, Smitten drives the pedagogical advancements that prepare students for real-world challenges.

Ray Galas, the President Emeritus at Hawaii Pacific University, serves as a senior advisor and institutional historian, providing continuity and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Galas directs efforts to preserve the university's legacy while supporting long-term institutional advancement initiatives. By overseeing special projects and maintaining relationships with key alumni and donors, the President Emeritus ensures that the university's historical values remain integrated into modern strategic planning. This leadership role involves providing guidance on complex institutional matters and participating in high-level governance discussions. Ray Galas leverages decades of experience to assist the executive team in navigating challenges and identifying growth opportunities. Through the promotion of the university's mission, the President Emeritus strengthens the connection between the institution's past achievements and future aspirations. Ultimately, Galas drives the preservation of the university's unique culture and academic identity within the competitive higher education sector.

Lissa Rodrigues, the Executive Secretary To the President at Hawaii Pacific University, manages the administrative operations and communication flow within the Office of the President. Rodrigues directs the scheduling, correspondence, and logistical coordination required to support the President's daily activities and strategic engagements. By overseeing the administrative functions of the executive office, the Executive Secretary To the President ensures that the leadership team remains focused on high-priority institutional goals. This leadership role involves facilitating communication between the President, the Board, and various university departments to ensure operational alignment. Lissa Rodrigues maintains the integrity of executive records and manages sensitive information with high levels of discretion. Through the efficient organization of executive workflows, the Executive Secretary To the President supports the overall effectiveness of the university's governance structure. Ultimately, Rodrigues drives the administrative excellence that enables the executive team to execute the university's mission effectively.

Bernard Nunies, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Hawaii Pacific University, architects the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the entire faculty and staff. Nunies directs the implementation of comprehensive human capital programs that support a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. By overseeing recruitment, benefits administration, and professional development, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts and retains top-tier academic talent. This leadership role involves aligning personnel policies with the broader mission of providing hands-on learning opportunities to students. Bernard Nunies manages complex labor relations and performance management systems to foster an environment of excellence. Through strategic workforce planning, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the institutional capacity to deliver high-quality education across all campuses. Ultimately, Nunies cultivates a supportive professional environment that empowers the university to achieve its long-term academic objectives.

Cody Down, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Hawaii Pacific University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure necessary for modern academic delivery. Down oversees the integration of advanced learning management systems and secure network operations across all campus locations. By architecting scalable cloud solutions, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President ensures that students and faculty maintain seamless access to digital resources. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to implement innovative educational technologies that enhance the student experience. Cody Down manages cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional data and maintain operational continuity. Through the deployment of robust IT systems, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President supports the university's mission of providing global perspectives through technology-enabled learning. Ultimately, Down drives the digital strategy that keeps the institution competitive within the Pacific Rim educational landscape.