Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Representative John Mizuno Selected For NCSL Executive Committee



VICE SPEAKER SELECTED FOR NCSL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE


Honolulu, Hawaii– The National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) has selected Vice Speaker John M. Mizuno to join the NCSL Executive Committee for 2013 to 2014. The Executive Committee provides overall direction on operations of the NCSL. Vice Speaker Mizuno is the only member of the Hawaii State Legislature serving on the Executive Committee.

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staff of all 50 states, its commonwealths and territories. NCSL, which is composed of legislators and staff from across the country, provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for lawmakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues. It is also an effective and respected advocate for the interests of state governments before Congress and federal agencies.

"Vice Speaker Mizuno is an energetic legislator who serves the people of Hawaii and his community with enthusiasm." said Speaker Joseph M. Souki. "His commitment to caring for those in need has made him a compassionate advocate for the underserved, struggling families."

"The NCSL is the premier organization providing communication among state legislatures resulting in improved quality and effectiveness for all states." said Vice Speaker Mizuno. "I am extremely honored and humbled to be able to serve on such an important committee."

Friday, September 13, 2013

Representative Roy Takumi to Serve as Vice Chair of National Education Commission of the States


HOUSE EDUCATION CHAIR SELECTED AS SECOND IN COMMAND OF
NATIONAL EDUCATION COMMISSION

Representative Roy Takumi to Serve as Vice-Chair of the Education Commission of the States

The Education Commission of the States (ECS) elected Hawaii State Representative Roy Takumi as the next ECS Vice-Chair at the National Forum on Education Policy held in Atlanta recently. He will serve a two-year term.

ECS was created in 1965 when states and territories made a commitment to work together to tackle tough education problems. Through ECS, state policymakers and education leaders exchange information, ideas and experiences to improve public education. ECS supports their work by providing nonpartisan and unbiased research, analysis, and technical assistance on education issues from Pre-K to postsecondary.

“I look forward to working with ECS Chair, Governor Brian Sandoval of Nevada, and the other ECS commissioners to continue to push for education reform that provides opportunities for students across the nation,” said Takumi.

“ECS thanks Representative Takumi for his willingness to be part of our leadership team. We are looking forward to working with him to advance states’ educational priorities and improve student achievement across the country,” ECS President Jeremy Anderson said.

ECS is the only nationwide, nonpartisan organization that works directly with governors, legislators, chief state school officers, higher education officials and other leaders across all areas of education, from Pre-K to college and the workforce. We track policy, translate research, provide advice and create opportunities for state policymakers to learn from one another. ECS is located in Denver and maintains the nation’s most extensive clearinghouse on education policy.