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Judicial vacancies have posed a persistent challenge in Hawaii. In recent years, the number of qualified applicants for judicial positions has declined significantly, leading to delays in the appointment and confirmation of judges and justices. A healthy democracy depends on all three branches of government operating effectively, and a fully staffed, highly qualified judiciary is essential to that balance.

The American Judicature Society (AJS), whose mission is to promote an independent and competent judiciary and a fair system of justice, has identified judicial vacancies as one of its top priorities.

To address the issue, a Special Committee on Judicial Vacancies has been established to identify barriers that discourage individuals from applying and to recommend improvements to the recruitment and application process. Market Trends Pacific, a professional market research firm, has been engaged to conduct an online survey of individuals who have been identified as qualified candidates. The survey aims to gather data on the factors that may deter applicants from pursuing judicial positions. All responses will be kept strictly confidential, and no individual respondent will be identifiable. The Hawaii State Judiciary supports the initiative.

The Special Committee on Judicial Vacancies is co-chaired by Judge J. Michael Seabright and Jan Boivin. Other members of the committee are: Nathan Hokama (co-reporter); Judge (ret.) Trudy Senda (co-reporter); Dr. David Ball; Timothy Johns; Judge (ret.) Walter Kirimitsu; Russell Lau; Judge Kanani Laubach; Carrie Okinaga; Randy Perreira; Sen. Karl Rhoades; and Dr. Sylvia Yuen (ex-officio).

Warmest holiday wishes to all!

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

The holiday season is often marked by the exchange of gifts among family and friends, and by reflections on those in need. Yet beyond the holidays, there are remarkable individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and resources to improving the lives of others year after year.

These community heroes come from all walks of life, contributing in diverse ways. Their civic actions strengthen community bonds and help sustain the foundation of our democratic society.

Several of these inspiring individuals are featured in the AJS Podcast Series on Community Heroes, now available on the AJS website at Podcasts: Community Heroes – American Judicature Society.

Or, go to the American Judicature Society website’s homepage, click on Civic Education in the blue band at the top of the screen, and click again on Podcasts.

Please join us in honoring these individuals for the outstanding work they are doing in service to our communities.