Wendy Hensel has embarked on a transformative journey since assuming leadership of the University of Hawaii system on January 1, 2025. She faced immediate challenges, including shifts in federal policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion that significantly impacted research funding. These changes compelled Hensel to navigate a complex landscape, positioning the university for a future shaped by both local and national dynamics.
In her early tenure, Hensel confronted a 10-campus system grappling with declining enrollment, student success gaps, and systemic inefficiencies. “The decisions we’ve made as we’ve navigated the federal changes have probably been the most consequential,” she stated in a recent interview. The urgency of these issues shaped her administration’s focus on resilience and adaptability.
Addressing Local Concerns
Hensel, a civil rights attorney with expertise in employment law, recognizes the profound implications of federal policy changes for Native Hawaiians. She has made concerted efforts to understand the university’s responsibilities as a Native Hawaiian place of learning. In her first 90 days, she visited all 10 campuses and engaged with various Native Hawaiian groups, emphasizing the importance of listening to community needs.
“The depth of concern and challenge as it relates to Native Hawaiians is very weighty and significant,” Hensel explained. Her extensive outreach included town hall meetings and informal listening sessions designed to foster understanding and collaboration across the islands. Hensel’s commitment to visibility and engagement also saw her present at over 40 community events, enhancing the university’s connection with students and the public.
A central theme of her administration has been reducing barriers that impede student success. One of her flagship initiatives, Direct to UH, simplifies the application process for high school seniors, allowing them to apply with a single click and receive early guidance. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to streamline pathways from the state’s education system into university programs.
Innovating Through Technology
Hensel has also prioritized the integration of technology to elevate student success. Under her leadership, the university has implemented EAB Navigate, a predictive analytics tool designed to identify at-risk students and facilitate early intervention by faculty and advisors. Additionally, the university is assessing retention and graduation barriers through partnerships with the National Institute for Student Success.
She believes that the adoption of new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), will be pivotal in transforming higher education. “Higher education is a surprisingly conservative institution resistant to change,” Hensel noted. “We are in a moment that will not allow that to be true. It demands change.”
Hensel’s vision for AI at the university includes a systemwide strategy aimed at equipping both faculty and students with the necessary tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. She has initiated AI training for all chancellors and system officers and established a task force to develop actionable recommendations.
While Hensel’s first year has been marked by substantial initiatives, she acknowledged that not all goals have been fully realized. Ongoing efforts to engage employers and expand experiential learning opportunities are still in development. “If it helps the students, we need to execute. We need to get it done,” she stated, emphasizing the necessity of overcoming institutional inertia.
In terms of governance, Hensel has made significant structural changes, including the separation of system leadership from day-to-day oversight of UH Manoa. This decision aims to enhance operational effectiveness and has led to the Board of Regents approving a search for a permanent chancellor for Manoa.
As the university approaches the 2025 legislative session, Hensel has coordinated advocacy efforts that successfully secured budget increases of $9.3 million for fiscal year 2026 and $9.7 million for fiscal year 2027. These efforts also included legislative advancements for funding the UH Cancer Center through the state’s cigarette tax, a significant milestone after five years of attempts.
Hensel remains committed to accountability and measurable outcomes. “My focus is never simply what are the best ideas,” she remarked. “It’s what is the timeline, what is the deliverable, and what is the accountability that will bring it to fruition.”
Overall, Hensel’s leadership reflects a dedication to reshaping higher education in Hawaii, addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals for student success and institutional growth. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her role, her commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative environment for all students remains at the forefront of her agenda.
