University of Hawaii president praised for efforts

HONOLULU (AP) — University of Hawaii’s president received high marks on his latest performance review and requested no salary increase for the second year in a row.

President David Lassner has served as president of the 10-campus university system for two years. UH Board of Regents Chairwoman Jan Sullivan said Lassner has remained dedicated to improving the university, despite any challenge.

Some of those challenges include a maintenance backlog that totals a half-billion dollars and declining or flat enrollment at some campuses. The university has still managed to award more degrees and improve its on-time graduation rates.

The 15-member board evaluated Lassner using anonymous input from university staff, students and members of the public, Sullivan said. The board also considered Lassner’s self-evaluation.

“The board reviewed and acknowledges a variety of opinions and comments that were received,” Sullivan said Thursday after the board’s monthly meeting. “We commend the president’s dedication to the university to continue to address the pressing issues that we face. The board supports the president and looks forward to making strong progress in the current year.”

Under board policy, Lassner was evaluated based on his academic and financial management as well as his relations with staff, students, donors and state leaders.

Lassner, who receives $375,000 a year, was recently appointed to serve as interim chancellor of the Manoa campus. He will take on the job with no additional compensation until a permanent replacement is found.

“I think I’m well-paid, and I think it becomes a distraction when people talk about my salary instead of what we’re trying to do,” Lassner said.

He said his goals as president include moving “the whole system forward,” improving facilities and educating more students.