De Fries to step down as executive director of MKSOA
The Maunakea Stewardship and Oversight Authority Board on Thursday accepted the retirement of Executive Director John De Fries, effective July 31.
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De Fries, who has served as MKSOA’s first executive director, helped build the organization’s foundation, and guided its early efforts to fulfill the responsibilities established under state law.
“Serving as MKSOA’s first executive director has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” De Fries said in a press release. “Helping establish this authority alongside a dedicated board, hardworking staff, and many community members has been deeply meaningful.”
De Fries said he looks forward to remaining an active member of the Maunakea community.
Board members shared their appreciation and aloha for De Fries’ leadership and service.
“John’s vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment were instrumental in establishing MKSOA from the ground up,” Board Chair John Komeiji said in the press release. “He laid the foundation for this organization, and we are deeply grateful for his service.”
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To ensure continuity while the board begins its search for the authority’s next executive director, Vice Chair Noe Noe Wong-Wilson recommended that Komeiji assume additional leadership responsibilities in overseeing the staff and supporting the authority’s ongoing work.
The board supported the recommendation.
“It is critical that we maintain momentum,” said Wong-Wilson. “Our priority is ensuring the authority’s work continues without interruption. Chair Komeiji’s familiarity with the organization and its mission provides continuity while we conduct a thoughtful search for our next executive director.”
Komeiji agreed to assume additional leadership responsibilities and work more closely with MKSOA staff and partners to ensure continuity while the board conducts its search for the next executive director.
The board will begin the search for the authority’s next executive director in the coming weeks.
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