Acting Chief Justice of the Hawai‘i Supreme Court, Sabrina S. McKenna, delivered the keynote address at the American Judicature Society’s annual meeting and program on December 2 at the Pacific Club. In her remarks, she praised the achievements of recently retired Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald and outlined her key initiatives for the judiciary in the coming year. Following the keynote, Acting Chief Justice McKenna was joined by Associate Justice Lisa Ginoza for a panel discussion moderated by Aviam Soifer, former dean of the William S. Richardson School of Law. The panel highlighted the differences between the U.S. and Hawai‘i constitutions, underscoring the unique features that distinguish Hawai‘i’s constitutional framework.
Attendees participated in a lively trivia competition, with table groups competing against one another to answer questions about members of the judiciary. The activity was led by former Judge Rhonda Nishimura and Kendrick Chang. The program concluded with a reception featuring an array of refreshments and providing members with the opportunity to socialize, strengthen professional connections, and welcome new colleagues.
Larry Okinaga, chair of the AJS Board of Directors, summarized the organization’s 2025 accomplishments and thanked everyone for their contributions for the successful outcomes. He welcomed newly elected members — Keith Hiraoka, Gerald Hurst and Mark Recktenwald — to the AJS board. The complete list of AJS board officers, advisors, and members for the coming year can be found on the AJS website.
Officers of the Board of Directors
| Lawrence Okinaga, Chair | Sylvia Yuen, Vice President | |
| Ivan Lui-Kwan, Vice Chair | Daniel Padilla, Secretary | |
| Douglas Chin, President | Jeannette Castagnetti, Assistant Secretary | |
| Jan Boivin, Vice President | Brian Kang, Treasurer | |
| John Tonaki, Vice President | Douglas Tonokawa, Assistant Treasurer |
