GM 579: Submitting for consideration and confirmation to the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs, Gubernatorial Nominee, LOUISE JOHNSON, for a term to expire 06-30-2028.

STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1494

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    GOV. MSG. NOS. 579, 633

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Health and Human Services, to which was referred Governor's Message Nos. 579 and 633, submitting for study and consideration the nominations of: 

Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs

begs leave to report as follows:

     Your Committee reviewed the personal histories, resumes, and statements submitted by Louise Johnson and Suzie Schulberg for service on the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs.

LOUISE JOHNSON

     Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Louise Johnson from the Executive Office on Aging, Hawaiʻi Family Caregiver Coalition, and one individual. 

     Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Johnson's background and dedication to serving the public qualify her to be appointed to the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs.  Your Committee notes that Ms. Johnson has over twenty‑five years of experience in pharmaceuticals and biotech regulatory affairs, including extensive liaison work with the United States Food and Drug Administration.  Ms. Johnson has been working at Nektar Therapeutics for over fourteen years, initially as the Senior Director of Regulatory and Quality Assurance from February 2011 to June 2011 and thereafter as the Executive Director of Regulatory Affairs, developing and implementing global strategies to expedite pharmaceutical product implementation and approval.  Your Committee finds that Ms. Johnson has a thorough understanding of the role and responsibilities of board members and her extensive experience working in the pharmaceutical industry will enhance the effectiveness of the Board.  Your Committee therefore recommends that Louise Johnson be appointed to the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs based on her knowledge, background, and dedication to public service.

SUZIE SCHULBERG

     Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the reappointment of Suzie Schulberg from the Executive Office on Aging, Hawaiʻi Family Caregiver Coalition, Hawaii Health Systems Corporation Oahu Region, and one individual.

     Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Schulberg's experience, knowledge, and proven leadership on the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs qualify her for reappointment to the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs.  Your Committee notes that Ms. Schulberg has approximately twenty‑five years of experience in the fields of senior living and aging.  Ms. Schulberg is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Arcadia Family of Companies, where she develops and implements the company's strategic plan which offers an array of senior living options and care options to age in place, including home health services, adult day care and day health services.  Prior to her current position, Ms. Schulberg held various positions at Arcadia Family of Companies, including Chief Operating Officer, responsible for daily operating activities, Director of Marketing and Outreach, and Assistant Administrator.  Your Committee further finds that Ms. Schulberg has served on the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs several times and is currently its Vice Chair.  Ms. Schulberg's experience and knowledge will continue to be assets to the Board.  Your Committee therefore recommends that Suzie Schulberg be reappointed to the Policy Advisory Board for Elder Affairs based on her experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

     As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committee on Health and Human Services that are attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominees, has found the nominees to be qualified for the positions to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nominations.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Health and Human Services,