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Regents unanimously award honorary doctorate to Kahu Kenneth Makuakane
Summary
The University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents voted unanimously to award an honorary doctorate of humane letters to Kahu Kenneth Makuakane following endorsements from campus and community leaders.
The University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents voted unanimously to award an honorary doctorate of humane letters to Kahu Kenneth Makuakane, the board heard during its meeting on the Hilo campus.
The nomination was presented by Louis Hokuana, chancellor of University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, who told the regents that Makuakane has ‘‘produced over 200 albums, composed more than 1,500 songs, and earned 24 Nahoku Honohana Awards’’ and that his nomination was supported by 21 letters including endorsements from a former governor, two mayors and academic leaders. Hokuana asked the board to grant the honorary degree in recognition of Makuakane’s contributions to Hawaiian music and culture.
The nut graf: Regents said the honor recognized a lifetime of cultural leadership and community service that the university said aligns with its mission to perpetuate Hawaiian language and culture.
Regent Wilson moved to award the degree; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll call. The board secretary recorded ayes from Chair Gabe Lee, Vice Chair Liu, Regent Abercrombie, Regent Akitake, Regent Famoina, Regent Higaki, Regent Miyahira, Regent Paloma and Regent Wilson; two regents were recorded as excused. The motion passed unanimously among those present.
Between the nomination and the vote, public testimony in support of the honor included remarks from Susie Osborne, co‑founder of Kua O Ka La Charter School, and a group of students who presented oli (chants) and mele (songs). Osborne described Makuakane as a ‘‘trailblazer’’ and emphasized his long history of service, including mentorship and family leadership. The regents also received written testimony in support of the nomination.
After the vote, the regents invited Kahu Makuakane to speak. In brief remarks Makuakane gave thanks to the university and community, said the honor ‘‘is not just a recognition of the work, but a celebration of the power of music, the power of faith,’’ and acknowledged his family, church and collaborators.
The board placed the award on the consent of actions after discussion and the formal roll call.
The regents move next to other agenda items scheduled for the Hilo meeting.
