Statement by Tom Apple July 30, 2014

Under the memo, I was terminated from my position as Chancellor for alleged unsatisfactory performance in that job. I believe I have done my job to the best of my ability and in service to the true needs of this institution. I had previous provided Dr. Lassner with my rebuttal of his allegations of unsatisfactory performance.

When I was handed the memo, I asked President Lassner, one more time, if there was any chance that he might reverse his intention to terminate me as Chancellor and I reiterated my willingness to continue to serve. I was told this was out of the question.

I was originally given a one hour deadline to accept a final settlement offer from the university. This time was later extended to the evening. If I did not accept the University last offer, I would have been forced to take a position in the medical school, reporting to Dean Hedges. That would have created untenable conditions under which I would have had to leave the University entirely. I therefore directed my attorney to accept the last offer – simply in order to protect my family’s livelihood.

I am extremely disappointed about this action, as there is a lot of work left to do here at Manoa.

I want to express my very sincere thanks, aloha and appreciation to the students, staff, faculty and administrators here on campus, and to the members of the larger community throughout the state, who have worked tirelessly with me, and have accomplished so much over the past couple of years. I am in awe of their dedication to make UHM a better, stronger university, and am very grateful for their support.

Though I have been forced out of my post as Chancellor, I do remain willing to serve this fine University if given the opportunity to do so.

Aloha,

Tom Apple

PDF: Apple Evaluation Letter July 18, 2014