Community college chancellor stepping down July 31
Hawaii Community College Chancellor Susan Kazama will retire on July 31 after a 40-year career with the University of Hawaii, marked by enrollment growth, record retention rates, and sustainable agriculture initiatives. She led the college through pandemic recovery, secured accreditation, and expanded programs like drone certification and butchery training.
Susan Kazama, chancellor of Hawaii Community College, will retire on July 31 after 40 years with the University of Hawaii system. A Hilo native, Kazama was appointed permanent chancellor in July 2024 following a year as interim leader, citing a desire to spend more time with elderly parents. Under her leadership, the college achieved an 8.7% enrollment increase, record-high student retention, and a full seven-year accreditation reaffirmation. The college rebounded from COVID-19 disruptions, with improved success rates and expanded opportunities. Kazama prioritized workforce development and community engagement, launching Hawaii Community College’s first drone-certification program and butchery cohorts. She secured a 16-acre land acquisition for sustainable agriculture, supporting food security and hands-on learning. Her career began in library roles at Maui and Honolulu Community Colleges before advancing to senior leadership positions across the UH system. An interim chancellor will be named soon to ensure a smooth transition. Kazama expressed gratitude for serving students and communities, calling her return to Hawaii Community College ‘one of the greatest privileges of [her] life.’
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