Pacific Century Fellows Program

Pacific Century News Release

The Fund for the Pacific Century, a charitable, nonprofit organization, is accepting applications for its 15th class of Pacific Century Fellows.  The program, modeled after the White House Fellows Program, is designed to recognize and encourage Hawaii’s future leaders.

The nine-month program will include approximately 30 of Hawaii’s most promising individuals from all segments of our community who are in their mid-20s to early 40s.  The fellows will be selected by an 18-member committee of prominent citizens based on their demonstrated ability to set and achieve goals and on having exhibited leadership qualities in their current professional, volunteer, and civic activities.

From Molokai, Kimberly Mikami Svetin and Rob Stephenson are former Pacific Century Fellows.

Mufi Hannemann, who serves as chairman of the board of the Fund for the Pacific Century, was himself a White House Fellow in 1983-84.  He said it has been exciting to see this program develop and to hear from past participants on how they have benefited from the experience.

“Graduates of the program include elected officials in various positions, including U.S. Senator and Congressman, Governor, and Mayor, bank executives and top business leaders, major labor and nonprofit representatives, University professors, media and public relations officials, physicians and dentists, and military officers,” said Hannemann. “We will be selecting our 15th class of fellows and providing these up-and-coming leaders with a unique opportunity to gain a better understanding of the issues confronting our community and nation.”

Those chosen will gain a broader view of those issues through direct contact with senior community, social and government leaders.

“Program Fellows are encouraged to develop long-term relationships and are expected to play active public service roles.  In this regard, the classes of both programs are provided with an opportunity to meet each other when the Marianas Chapter fellows come to Hawaii as a part of their program year,” added Hannemann.

Individual companies may sponsor candidates for the program.  The cost is $3,500 to cover expenses.  Employers are encouraged to pay employee program costs, but tuition assistance is available.  Applications and information is available at pacificcenturyfellows.com.  The deadline for submission of applications is July 15.  The Opening Retreat that kicks off the 2015-16 program year, is in September, at the Turtle Bay Resort.