This message was shared with the students, faculty and staff of the 10-campus University of Hawaiʻi system on January 29, 2025.
Aloha UH students, faculty and staff,
Most of you are likely aware of a series of federal executive orders issued over the last week that have created some uncertainty in our community. Just this week, a memorandum was released (and rescinded) that temporarily paused some grants, loans, and financial assistance while the federal government aligns with the new administration¡¯s priorities. I am writing to assure our community that we are paying close attention to these developments and working to address issues as they are identified.
We are in regular communication with Hawaiʻi¡¯s congressional delegation, Gov. Josh Green¡¯s office, the state attorney general, and key federal and community partners so that we may collaborate effectively through this rapidly evolving situation. We are unified in our commitment to ensuring that UH continues to deliver on its core mission of educating all students, fostering innovative research, and creating a welcoming and respectful environment on our campuses.
Because information is changing in real time, it will be important in the days ahead to neither overreact or underreact as the situation evolves. We will continue to monitor events and share updates with our community as we have more information.
Mahalo nui loa for your patience and support,
Wendy Hensel
UH President