MEDIA RELEASE

The state Senate unanimously confirmed two governor nominees — Glenn M. Okimoto as Director of the Department of Transportation and Albert (Alapaki) Nahale-a as Chairperson to the Department of Hawaiian Home Land. Both individuals bring unique experience to their new positions.

Glenn M. Okimoto brings many years of public management and skill-based knowledge. Okimoto has served thirty years as an employee of the State of Hawaii. Twenty-seven of those years have been with Department of Transportation.

During his tenure at the Department of Transportation, Okimoto gained experience both as a staff economist and Deputy Director for Administrations. This gave him a unique understanding of both the financial and operating facets of the Department.

Albert (Alapaki) Nahale-a brings a broad range of experience and understanding of the Hawaiian community. Amongst a variety of positions, Nahale-a has served as board member of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, Director of Umeke Kaeo Hawaiian Immersion Public Charter School in Keaukaha, and as a local school board member.

He also holds five years of government work experience as a Legislative Auditor Assistant and Fiscal and Program Review Auditor with the County of Hawaii. Most recently, Nahale-a served as the Executive Director of the Hawaii Charter Schools and Network.

Also, the Senate has unanimously confirmed Kealiilalanikulani S. Lopez as Director of the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

Lopez brings many years of high-level managerial and leadership experience. Lopez served as President and Chief Executive officer of Olelo Community Television. Under her leadership, Olelo Community Television has become the second-largest public access television provider in the United States and is well respected across the nation.

During her time at Olelo, Lopez achieved a great understanding of a wide range of issues faced by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.