Acting Chief Justice Sabrina S. McKenna issued a statement on Apr. 20 expressing condolences following the death of former Governor George R. Ariyoshi.
McKenna said the loss is deeply felt by the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary and extended sympathy to Ariyoshi’s family, highlighting his impact on Hawaiʻi’s legal and public service communities. She said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Governor George R. Ariyoshi. On behalf of the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary, I extend our heartfelt condolences and aloha to his wife Jean, his children Lynn, Ryozo, and Donn, and his entire ʻohana.” McKenna also noted Ariyoshi’s lifelong dedication to law and public service: “Governor Ariyoshi was a leader of lasting significance in Hawaiʻi’s history whose lifelong dedication to the law and public service left an enduring imprint on Hawaiʻi’s legal community. Trained as an attorney, he carried a deep respect for the rule of law throughout his career in government and beyond.”
Ariyoshi was recognized as the first Asian American elected governor in any U.S. state, serving during a period described by McKenna as pivotal for growth and institutional development in Hawaii. She said he led with humility, discipline, and commitment: “He carried himself with humility, discipline, and a commitment to public service. His steady leadership helped guide our state through a pivotal period of growth and change, forming and strengthening institutions that continue to serve the people of Hawaiʻi today.” Personally reflecting on her relationship with him as a mentor she added: “Governor Ariyoshi was a mentor who taught me the importance of having a long-term vision and planning toward that vision…His impact will endure through the institutions he helped build…”
The Hawaii State Judiciary highlights its focus on judicial diversity to support fair justice administration within its community according to its official website. The judiciary manages courts across several circuits serving islands such as Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi according to its official website. It aims for inclusivity so courts reflect Hawaii’s diversity while ensuring fairness according to its official website.
Judges are appointed through processes involving both gubernatorial selection—subjected to Senate confirmation—and recommendations from the Judicial Selection Commission for appellate or circuit courts; terms last ten years as noted by their official site. Courts are organized by circuits tailored for different Hawaiian islands including Oʻahu, Maui, or Kauaʻi per their website. The judiciary also provides KolokoloChat online for general inquiries about court services or navigating their site as detailed officially.
McKenna concluded her statement saying those who knew Ariyoshi would remember not only his achievements but also his humble resolve: “We are profoundly grateful for his service to Hawaiʻi. We will remember him with great respect, admiration, and aloha.”
