Governor Green Appointed Three to State Panels

Governor Josh Green has announced new appointments for three residents to key state panels in Hawaii.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People

Governor Green Appointed Three to State Panels

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Governor Josh Green has selected three individuals to serve on state panels in Hawaii. These appointments are now awaiting confirmation by the Hawaii Senate.

Why it matters

The appointments are necessary to fill vacant positions on state panels, ensuring that these bodies have the leadership required to function effectively. Each candidate must undergo a formal review and confirmation process by the Hawaii Senate to finalize their selection.

Governor Green has named 3 residents to fill board positions, drawing on candidates with extensive backgrounds including 15 years and 25 years of professional experience respectively. All terms are subject to final approval by the state legislature.

The players

Josh Green

Josh Green is the current Governor of Hawaii who oversees state panel appointments.

Cyrus Johnasen

Cyrus Johnasen is the general manager of Pacific Media Group Hawaii Island.

J. Elise Hannigan

J. Elise Hannigan is the 2026 Hawaii State Teacher of the Year.

Kristen Lum Brummel

Kristen Lum Brummel is the leader of the Hawaii Teacher Induction Center.

The details

Cyrus Johnasen has been tapped for the Land Use Commission, while J. Elise Hannigan and Kristen Lum Brummel have been appointed to the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board. These individuals bring expertise from their roles at Pacific Media Group, Keaau High School, and the Hawaii Teacher Induction Center.

Kristen Lum Brummel received National Board Certification in 2009.
J. Elise Hannigan was named Teacher of the Year in 2026.
The term for Kristen Lum Brummel is set to end June 30, 2028.
The term for J. Elise Hannigan is set to end June 30, 2029.
The term for Cyrus Johnasen is set to end June 30, 2030.

Market Landscape

These appointments follow the standard administrative procedures defined by Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 26-34 regarding executive appointments. The process underscores the state requirement for the advice and consent of the Senate to balance executive and legislative oversight.

These appointments ensure that state panels maintain active oversight of land use and education standards across the islands. Residents can expect these boards to continue their work once the Senate confirms the new members.

The takeaway

Public service boards rely on the professional expertise of community members to maintain functioning state oversight. These appointments highlight the ongoing need for qualified leadership in critical sectors like education and land development.