In continuation of a career at Kamehameha Schools that has spanned nearly a quarter-century, former KS Kapālama Vice Principal Hailama Farden has assumed the role of regional director for Kona Oʻahu – a position within KS’ Community Engagement and Resources Group (CE&R). Kona O‘ahu is the original moku name of the area now known as Honolulu.

Farden is responsible for leading the integration of KS’ educational and support service activities to best optimize resources across internal and external divisions. He will also work closely with the land asset management and commercial real estate divisions to ensure alignment of KS’ land asset portfolio with the educational and strategic goals of KS’ Strategic Plan 2020.

“Hailama has established solid relationships with various community leaders and organizations while at the Kapālama campus,” says Kamuela Cobb-Adams, senior director of Oʻahu for CE&R. “His passion for the Hawaiian culture and KS’ mission will greatly contribute to his new position as regional director on Oʻahu.”

Farden started his career with KS 24 years ago at the Kapālama campus where he served as a kumu ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi for 16 years at the high school level. He then took on the role of high school vice principal for eight years.

“Leaving the Kapālama campus after 24 years is a little sad for me, however, I am excited to begin my 25th year serving Pauahi in a different capacity,” Farden says. “I am excited to be a part of the CE&R ʻohana, and since much of the work is still in ‘uncharted waters,’ it means that there are so many opportunities to build and amplify connections with the Hawaiian community.

“As we work to build out the regions on Oʻahu, it would be natural that educational partnerships would continue to blossom. I will strive to strengthen relationships with Kapālama (internally), UH Mānoa, UH West Oʻahu, Leeward Community College, Pūnana Leo, Hawaiian Charter Schools and definitely the Department of Education, in which the majority of our Hawaiian keiki are based.”

Farden grew up in Waiʻanae and is a 1989 graduate of KS Kapālama. He earned a teaching certificate and license, and also has a bachelor’s degree in Hawaiian Studies with a double emphasis on Hawaiian language and performing arts from UH-Hilo. Additionally, Farden holds a master’s degree in education with a focus on curriculum and instruction.

He also serves as first vice president of the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs and as premier of the Hale O Nā Aliʻi O Hawaiʻi royal society. For 11 years, Farden has served as kahu of Waiʻanae Protestant Church.

During his free time, Farden enjoys researching the Papakilo Database, an online Hawaiian database comprised with historical and cultural documents of Hawaiʻi’s history. He and his wife Elena, a strategic analyst in KS’ Strategy and Innovation Group, are enjoying life with their seven-month-old daughter.

Hailama has established solid relationships with various community leaders and organizations while at the Kapālama campus. His passion for the Hawaiian culture and KS’ mission will greatly contribute to his new position as regional director on Oʻahu.
Kamuela Cobb-Adams, Senior Director of Oʻahu for CE&R

TAGS
ce&r,community engagement and resources

CATEGORIES
Kaipuolono Article, Newsroom, Community Education, Department News, LAD News

Print with photos Print text only