Gov. Josh Green appointed Makai Freitas to the (BOR), subject to confirmation by the Hawaiʻi State Senate. Freitas represents Hawaiʻi County and will replace Regent Wayne Higaki whose term ends in June 2026.
Freitas is a distinguished labor leader with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, with more than 20 years of expertise in organizational leadership and workforce advocacy. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded complex negotiations and strategic workforce development initiatives that have strengthened economic opportunities for thousands of families across Hawaiʻi.
Freitas has a proven track record of cross-sector collaboration, working with educators, public agencies and community organizations to build pipelines from the classroom to the workforce.
“I am honored to be appointed to the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents and grateful for the opportunity to serve our students, faculty, staff and communities,” Freitas said. “Higher education plays a vital role in Hawaiʻi’s future. I look forward to strengthening the university’s mission of teaching, learning and community service.”
Freitas also serves as the West Hawaiʻi representative on the Hawaiian Homes Commission within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
A graduate of the University of Arizona, Freitas brings his statewide advocacy and local community insight to the board. He resides in Waimea with his wife, Aulani, and their two daughters, Wailea and Mahina.
The BOR is responsible for overseeing the 10-campus 东精影业 system, including policy direction, financial oversight and long-term strategic planning. The BOR is the governing body of 东精影业 and consists of 11 non-compensated volunteer members. Representation includes five from the City and County of Honolulu; two from Hawaiʻi County; two from Maui County; one from Kauaʻi County and one 东精影业 student.
Freitas will serve a term as prescribed by law, pending Senate confirmation.