Molokai Chamber President Selected as Pacific Century Fellow

Robert Stephenson, Molokai Chamber of Commerce President, and new Pacific Century Fellow. Photo courtesy of Molokai Chamber.

By Sonia Isotov

The Pacific Century Fellows program has announced their 13th class of Fellows, comprised of 38 men and women, and one is from Molokai. The program identifies, encourages and helps to develop and strengthen island leaders.

Robert Stephenson, a consultant in land use development and the Molokai Chamber of Commerce president, will represent Maui County beginning with a two-day retreat on September 23-24, 2011, featuring a series of seminars and discussions.

Following the retreat, participants will help plan their agenda and schedule for the upcoming year and take part in at least one day-long program each month to investigate critical issues facing Hawaii in such areas as crime, education, environment, quality of life, the military, and the economy.

“With our 13th class of Fellows participating in this unique executive leadership program, we continue to build a cadre of bright, talented and energetic professionals who will make contributions to the betterment of Hawaii in the years to come,” said program founder, and former Honolulu Mayor, Mufi Hannemann, in a written statement.  “Many of our previous Fellows already have made a positive impact in our community, and this class will be no different.

“This year’s class represents a broad cross-section of our community.  They come from all parts of the state, with different backgrounds and professions—all committed to making Hawaii a better place for generations to come.”

Modeled after the White House Fellows Program, the Pacific Century Fellows program was founded in 1996 by former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann. Hanneman had served as a former White House Fellow (1983-84) under the then-Vice President George H.W. Bush in the Reagan administration.

Pacific Century Fellows are chosen on the basis of written applications and personal interviews conducted by a blue-ribbon panel of judges. In evaluating the candidates, the committee considers educational background; current career responsibilities, noting any special achievements as well as the comments of superiors; involvement in community activities; communication skills; and strength of character.  Chosen individuals have shown strong intellectual and leadership abilities in the early and mid-stages of their careers, and demonstrated the potential to make significant contributions to the community in the future.

The Pacific Century Fellows program will provide participants with direct contact with senior community, social, and government leaders.  A goal of the program is to nurture relationships among individuals who are committed to exploring creative and constructive solutions to far-reaching challenges facing the state and nation.