Derek Kawakami for Kaua‘i County Council » endorsements

Judge Alfred Laureta on Derek

derek — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 04:24:18 +0000

“While serving with Derek as a former Director of KIUC, I sensed in him a dedication and desire to do that which was expected of him as a director. His willingness to listen and his forward-looking outlook contributed much to solutions and decisions. He is motivated by a desire to help build a legacy of Kauai which future generations can be thankful for.” - Alfred Laureta

1st Filipino-American to be appointed U.S. district judge (1969)
1st Filipino-American to be appointed judge of Hawaii’s Circuit Court One (1969)
1st Filipino-American director of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations in Hawaii (1963)

Former Administrative Assistant to Senator Daniel K. Inouye

Former KIUC Director

Senator Dan Inouye on Derek Kawakami

ryane — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:34:26 +0000

“I have had the privilege of knowing the Kawakami family from childhood. My relationship dates back to Derek’s grandfather, H.S. Kawakami, who was my father’s high school classmate, and continued forward with Derek’s uncle…my dear 442nd buddy, George Kawakami.

Derek is the third generation Kawakami I have had the honor of working with; he served as my 2004 Kauai Campaign Co-Chair. It was a learning opportunity, and he did a fine job. I believe it also piqued his own interest in public service.

I am very pleased that Derek is carrying forward the Kawakami tradition of leadership and giving back to the community.”

- Senator Daniel K. Inouye