The House Committee on Labor & Public Employment

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

9:30 a.m.,  Room 309

RE: HB1556, Relating to the University of Hawai‘i

Attention:    Chair Mark Nakashima, Vice Chair Jarrett Keohokalole and Members of the Committee

The University of Hawaii Professional Assembly (UHPA) urges the committee to support the passage of HB1556 that provides faculty the opportunity to serve their communities not only as an educator but as a public servant.

The value added to the student of a faculty member who has experienced the process of being elected to public office, serving the people through knowing the community needs and crafting the language for county ordinances or state statutes that improve their lives is not found in academic text.  This experience is where praxis intersects with theory and excellence is achieved.

The University of Hawai‘i faculty are members of communities throughout the State of Hawai‘i and must be provided equal opportunity, just like other citizens of Hawai‘i to hold public office.

UHPA urges passage of HB1556

Respectfully submitted,

 Kristeen Hanselman                                                                                                                                         Executive Director