Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 3, Number 3, 1 March 1986 — Freitas is New OHA Chairman [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Freitas is New OHA Chairman

Trustee Joseph G. Kealoha Jr. stepped down from his position as chairman of the Board of T rustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs following the board's monthly meeting Friday, Feb. 28. Kealoha said his decision was made during a "ho'opx>nopono" session with the other trustees. He defined "ho'oponopono" as "problem solving through consensus", and said he felt his action is in the best interests of OHA. According to OHA's bylaws, "In the event of a vacancy in the office of the chairperson, the vice-chair shall succeed as chairperson for the unexpired term".

In accordance with that regulation, Trustee Rockne Freitas has assumed the chairmanship. Freitas, 40, is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, earned a B.S. degree at Oregon State University and a masters of education degree at the University of Hawaii where he is a doctoral candidate. An All-American center during his college football days, Freitas was drafted by the Detroit Lions, playing 116 consecutive games over 11 years. Freitas, who is president of several marine-related companies, was named associate athletic director of the University of Hawaii last year. He has been a trustee since 1982 and became vice-chair in 1984.

Following the board meeting, Freitas told reporters: "I have mixed emotions on the whole thing. First of all, Joe stepped down whieh I felt was a necessary move on his part for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Credibility of any government office is foremost in the minds of the people and with those of us who hold public office. On the other hand, Joe is a friend and it is emotionally draining to see someone with whom I have been closely associated go through a difficult

ordeal. In spite of all the negativism, I hope no one will lose sight of the fact that he has also made significant contributions to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs." Later, Freitas said he is in favor of an independent audit of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and would like to see the Legislative Auditor's office act as an observer during that audit. Freitas said he intends to make those recommendations to the Board of Trustees as soon as possible. -

' . II .. , Rockne Freitas