University of Hawaiʻi President Wendy Hensel recently delivered her inaugural address, reflecting on the university’s achievements and setting the stage for future goals. Hensel, who took office on January 1, 2025, highlighted the significant progress made in the last year while facing ongoing challenges in higher education.
She emphasized the tangible opportunities available to enhance student and community life, stating, “These aren’t just dreams. We have real plans that can make a difference.” This address aims not only to keep the community informed but also to invite participation in achieving shared goals.
The livestream of her speech made it accessible to faculty, staff, students, and community members, promoting transparency and accountability. Hensel mentioned various accomplishments from 2025, such as:
- Record Enrollment: Enrollment across the ten campuses hit over 51,000 for the first time in eight years.
- Direct2UH Initiative: This program simplifies the admissions process for public high school seniors in Hawaii.
- AI Advancements: The integration of artificial intelligence supports students across the University of Hawaiʻi system.
- Workforce Development: Efforts are underway to build a workforce ecosystem that benefits the state’s economy.
- Improved Student Success: Targeting higher graduation and retention rates.
- Funding Records: Fiscal Year 2025 saw record levels of extramural funding, promoting growth despite budget uncertainties in 2026.
Despite these achievements, Hensel acknowledged challenges such as shifting federal policies and cuts to research funding. She stressed the importance of communication and alignment within the university as it navigates a rapidly changing educational landscape.
Terry George, President of the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about Hensel’s vision. He praised her candidness about the university’s challenges and strategies for addressing them.
As the university embraces these opportunities and challenges, the community is encouraged to engage in this journey, ensuring that the University of Hawaiʻi continues to thrive.
For more about the University of Hawaiʻi’s progress, you can check detailed reports and updates on their official news page.
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