The University of Hawaiʻi system is undergoing a strategic shift with the appointment of Carlos Peñaloza, current chancellor of Leeward Community College, to simultaneously serve as interim chancellor of UH West Oʻahu, commencing January 1, 2026. This dual leadership role signals a concerted effort to explore the potential for greater integration between the two West Oʻahu campuses. UH News reported on September 18, 2025, that this initiative aims to create a unified vision for and integration of the two institutions.
Peñaloza's appointment comes at a crucial juncture for higher education in the region. Hawaii News Now highlights that UH President Wendy Hensel stated this is a critical moment to rethink how we deliver higher education to the region. The exploration of a unified model has the potential to streamline resources, enhance collaboration, and create a more cohesive educational pathway for students in West Oʻahu. Such integration could result in a more efficient use of public funds and create a more robust educational offering. With Peñaloza already at the helm of LCC, the ability to collaborate from both institutions may be easier to coordinate.
The strategic focus on integration is timely, given the broader discussions about the structure of the University of Hawaiʻi system. A report from April 30, 2015, to the Board of Regents of the University of Hawai'i System explored the system's management and leadership structure. This dual appointment by Peñaloza could potentially usher in new models of cooperation and efficiency. The move also presents an opportunity for local businesses. A stronger, more integrated university system could provide a better-prepared workforce. This could support existing businesses and attract new investment to the region.
