Trustee selection process for Kamehameha Schools faces critical review after scandals

In Hawaii, the selection process for Kamehameha Schools trustees is being scrutinized following past scandals in the 1990s that exposed deep issues within the organization. For the past two years, a state probate court and special masters have been reviewing the current process that involves a court-appointed panel selecting three trustee candidates. Many alumni and stakeholders have called for significant revisions, proposing a committee composed of educators, former students, and other beneficiaries to handle these recommendations internally. Currently, there are no mandates ensuring that those who vet the trustees have any connection to the institution or that they belong to the Native Hawaiian community. Judge Jeannette Castagnetti has indicated willingness to authorize changes, though a formal decision has yet to materialize. This situation is compounded by the fact that Kamehameha Schools manages several hundred thousand acres of land beyond its educational activities, potentially affecting its operations and trust's legacy. The discussions surrounding the trustee selection process are critical in ensuring that it reflects the community's values and focuses on benefiting Native Hawaiian students more effectively, especially in light of lessons learned from the past abuses of power.