HI HR35

Congratulates John Y. Gotanda on his selection as the fifth president of Hawaii Pacific University, marking his return to Hawaii after a distinguished career on the mainland.

Recognizes Gotanda's educational background, including degrees from the University of Hawaii at Manoa (BBA, 1984) and William S. Richardson School of Law (J.D., 1987), where he served as Law Review editor-in-chief.

Acknowledges his professional accomplishments as a law professor and dean at Villanova University (1994-2016), including implementing strategic curriculum reforms that reduced time and cost while expanding international opportunities for students.

Notes Gotanda's international reputation as a leading authority on damages in international law, cited by the U.S. Supreme Court and other courts and tribunals, and his expertise in international arbitration and sales law.

Extends the Hawaii House of Representatives' best wishes to Gotanda for continued success as he leads Hawaii Pacific University toward becoming a leader in innovative higher education.