GOVERNOR LINGLE HONORS TOP STATE MANAGER, EMPLOYEE AND TEAM OF THE YEAR
For Immediate Release: October 15, 2009
HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle today named Michael Unebasami, associate vice president for administrative affairs of the University of Hawai‘i as State Manager of the Year, and Brian Bushe, a University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges insect and plant researcher as State Employee of the Year. The Governor also named the Moanalua Elementary School cafeteria staff as the State Team of the Year.
“The State employees who have been selected as their department’s Employee, Manager or Team of the Year deserve our appreciation for the work they do every day to serve the public,” said Governor Lingle. “These dedicated individuals help create a strong foundation which enables state government to provide services that improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors. Their accomplishments perpetuate the aloha spirit and make our state a special place to live and work.”
The three winners were selected from 47 exceptional group and individual nominees who were chosen by their colleagues as their respective department’s employee, manager, and team of the year. This year, 17 team nominees, 12 manager nominees, and 18 employee nominees vied for the Governor’s Awards for State Team of the Year, Manager of the Year, and Employee of the Year, respectively.
A volunteer selection committee of four individuals from non-State government organizations carefully reviewed the 47 nomination packets and rated them according to defined categories. The committee presented their recommendations for the three awards to Governor Lingle.
Manager of the Year – Michael Unebasami, University of Hawai‘i
After 40 years of service, Unebasami continues to be highly motivated in creating a quality working environment for staff, colleagues, faculty and students of the University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges. He manages a multi-million dollar budget and ensures the smooth operations of seven campuses by inspiring, mentoring, and providing progressive leadership to others.
“The State appreciates Michael’s passion and unfailing dedication to the University of Hawai‘i Community College system and the advancement of higher education in the State of Hawai‘i,” said Governor Lingle.
Employee of the Year – Brian Bushe, University of Hawai‘i
As an insect and plant disease diagnostician, Busche operates a “one-man clinic,” using creative solutions to difficult problems by spending hundreds of hours to find the control of a newly discovered disease organism. Known as the “Plant Doctor,” Busche volunteers at open houses and plant sale events to raise public awareness.
“Brian has made immeasurable contributions to the University of Hawai‘i and to our local farmers by providing accurate and timely diagnosis and identification of pests to ensure the protection of our plants and the environment,” Governor Lingle said.
State TEAM of the Year – Moanalua Elementary, Cafeteria Staff, Department of Education
The Moanalua Elementary School cafeteria staff exemplifies the school’s motto, “Kids First.” Whether it’s a healthy kid’s diet, reinforcement of good eating habits, or grants and programs for children’s health and wellness, the cafeteria team maintains a healthy school community. The team also works with teachers in developing lessons on nutrition, extending their expertise into the classrooms and the everyday lives of students.
“The Moanalua Elementary School cafeteria team embodies the school’s vision of working together to support the well-being, academic success, positive behavior and character development of our children,” said Governor Lingle. “Through their efforts, the cafeteria team is helping to establish a strong foundation for health lifestyles for our children.”
Governor’s 2009 Selection Committee
The volunteer members of the Governor’s 2009 Selection Committee reviewed the nominations and pertinent information prior to judging. The committee is comprised of representatives from non-State government organizations. This year’s members are: Chris Archer, news director, KGMB-TV 9; Alan Hayashi, manager, public relations & communications, BAE Systems; Cheryl Kauhane Lupenui, president & CEO, YWCA of O‘ahu; and Clinton Schroeder, vice president – advertising, The Honolulu Advertiser.
The Governor’s Awards are designed to honor State Executive Branch employees, managers and work teams who exemplify the highest caliber of public service and dedication in serving the people of Hawai‘i. The Department of Human Resources Development administers the statewide program. For more information, contact Wilma Iwasaki, Department of Human Resources Development, at (808) 587-1074.
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For more information, contact:
Marie Laderta
Director, Dept. of Human Resources Development
Phone: (808) 587-1100
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043
