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 the allocation of capital resources to support the university's diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. By overseeing budgetary planning and financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the university maintains the necessary infrastructure for hands-on learning across all campuses. David Kostecki collaborates with the board to align financial strategies with the broader mission of providing high-quality education in the Pacific Rim. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of institutional assets and the optimization of operational funding. Through careful management of revenue streams and expenditure controls, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation required for academic growth. Kostecki maintains fiscal discipline while supporting the university's commitment to a diverse student population and innovative teaching environments.

David LeNoir, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at Hawaii Pacific University, executes high-level financial planning and investment strategies to bolster the university's market position. LeNoir oversees the management of endowment funds and long-term financial forecasting to support the expansion of academic programs. By directing the financial operations of the university, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are effectively distributed to maintain the quality of small class sizes and specialized learning environments. David LeNoir works closely with executive leadership to evaluate the economic impact of new educational initiatives. This leadership role involves balancing operational costs with the need for continued investment in campus facilities and faculty development. Through strategic financial oversight, LeNoir supports the university's goal of providing a distinct educational adventure. The Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial stability necessary for the institution to thrive as a premier center for learning in the Pacific.

Ray Galas, the President Emeritus at Hawaii Pacific University, provides strategic counsel and historical context to the current leadership team. Galas supports the university's mission by offering insights gained from years of institutional experience. By advising on long-term academic goals and community relations, the President Emeritus ensures continuity in the university's commitment to excellence. Ray Galas participates in high-level discussions regarding the institution's role in the Honolulu business district and its broader impact on the Pacific Rim. This leadership role involves representing the university in external forums and fostering relationships with key stakeholders. Through the preservation of institutional values, Galas helps maintain the university's reputation as a leading independent, non-profit educator. The President Emeritus contributes to the ongoing success of the university by bridging past achievements with future aspirations. Galas remains a vital resource for the executive team as the university continues to evolve its diverse educational offerings.

Lissa Rodrigues, the Executive Secretary To the President at Hawaii Pacific University, manages the administrative operations and communication flow for the Office of the President. Rodrigues coordinates the scheduling, correspondence, and logistical requirements for the university's top leadership. By overseeing the daily functions of the executive office, the Executive Secretary To the President ensures that the president can focus on strategic initiatives and institutional growth. Lissa Rodrigues facilitates communication between the president, the board, and various academic departments to ensure alignment with the university's mission. This leadership role involves managing sensitive information and maintaining the professional standards of the executive office. Through the efficient organization of administrative tasks, Rodrigues supports the university's commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience. The Executive Secretary To the President maintains the operational rhythm of the leadership team, ensuring that all administrative processes contribute to the overall success of the university.

John Gotanda, the President at Hawaii Pacific University, leads the overall strategic direction and academic vision of the institution. Gotanda oversees the implementation of the university's mission to provide a distinct blend of small class sizes and global perspectives. By directing the executive team, the President ensures that all departments work in harmony to support the diverse student population. John Gotanda engages with the community and industry partners to expand the university's reach across the Pacific Rim. This leadership role involves setting institutional priorities, managing the university's reputation, and fostering an environment of academic excellence. Through the pursuit of innovative educational programs, Gotanda drives the university's growth as a leading independent, non-profit institution. The President maintains a focus on student success and the continuous improvement of learning opportunities. Gotanda secures the future of the university by championing its core values and commitment to hands-on education.

Jayne Smitten, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President at Hawaii Pacific University, leads the development of advanced simulation-based learning within the public health curriculum. Smitten directs the integration of hands-on, experiential teaching methods that prepare students for real-world challenges in the health sector. By overseeing the application of simulation technology, the SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President ensures that students gain practical skills in a controlled environment. Jayne Smitten collaborates with faculty to design curricula that reflect current global health perspectives and industry standards. This leadership role involves mentoring students and promoting innovative pedagogical approaches across the university. Through the implementation of simulation-based training, Smitten enhances the quality of education provided to the diverse student body. The SIMulationist Educator Professor Public Health SSH 2024 Immediate President maintains a focus on academic rigor and the practical application of public health knowledge.

Cody Down, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President at Hawaii Pacific University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting the university's multi-campus operations. Down manages the integration of advanced technology systems to enhance the student experience and streamline administrative workflows. By overseeing the deployment of secure network solutions, the Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President ensures seamless connectivity across the Honolulu business district and military base locations. Cody Down drives the digital transformation strategy, enabling faculty and students to access global perspectives through robust information systems. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic departments to implement learning technologies that facilitate hands-on education. Through the modernization of data management and cybersecurity protocols, Down protects institutional integrity. The Operations Chief Information Officer & Vice President maintains high standards for technical reliability, ensuring that the university's digital environment supports its mission as a leading independent, non-profit institution.

Bernard Nunies, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer at Hawaii Pacific University, directs the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the university's faculty and staff. Nunies oversees the implementation of human capital policies that foster a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. By managing recruitment, benefits, and professional development programs, the Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university attracts and retains accomplished educators. Bernard Nunies collaborates with department heads to align staffing needs with the university's mission of providing hands-on learning opportunities. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor requirements and promoting a supportive environment for all employees across the various campus locations. Through the optimization of human resources processes, Nunies enhances organizational efficiency and employee engagement. The Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a focus on building a high-performing team that supports the academic success of the student population.