STAND. COM. REP. NO. 3834

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 589

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2022

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Higher Education, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 589, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE)

G.M. No. 589

DAVID LASSNER, for a term to expire 06-30-2026,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by David Lassner for service on the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE).

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of David Lassner from the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education and one individual.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Dr. Lassner's experience, knowledge, and dedication in serving on the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education qualify him for reappointment to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education as a commissioner for Hawaii. Your Committee finds that Dr. Lassner has served Hawaii's higher education community for over forty years, serving in multiple roles within the University of Hawaii's information technology department, including as the University's Director of Information Technology, Chief Information Officer, and Vice President for Information Technology. Dr. Lassner currently serves as President of the University of Hawaii System, a role he has held since 2013, leading all public higher education in Hawaii, including seven community colleges and three universities located across the State. Your Committee notes that Dr. Lassner is a current commissioner of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education and serves as the vice chairperson of the Commission. Additionally, Dr. Lassner currently serves as a member of the East-West Center Board of Governors and as board chairperson of the National Association of System Heads. Dr. Lassner's experience and knowledge will continue to be assets to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. Your Committee therefore recommends that David Lassner be reappointed to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education based on his experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Higher Education that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Higher Education,

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DONNA MERCADO KIM, Chair