Terrence George, the president and CEO of the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, has been appointed as a commissioner to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). This organization addresses higher education and policy needs across 15 Western states, U.S. Pacific Territories, and Freely Associated States.
George joins other representatives from Hawai’i on the WICHE Commission, including David Lassner and Colleen Sathre from the University of Hawai’i. The commission consists of 48 members appointed by state governors or leaders of freely associated states. It directs WICHE's activities in accordance with the Western Regional Education Compact established in 1953.
“I am thrilled to join the WICHE Commission, where I can contribute to shaping the future of higher education and advancing opportunities for students across the region,” George stated. “I am eager to collaborate with fellow leaders to drive progress and ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for all.”
Since 2013, George has led the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, which provides $7 million annually in grants throughout Hawai’i. His previous roles include chief program officer at Consuelo Foundation in Hawai’i. He is also involved with several boards such as Hawaii Business Roundtable and Hawai’i P-20 Council.
WICHE President Demarée Michelau remarked on George’s appointment: “Commissioner George’s commitment to student access and success while supporting his community through public service are invaluable to serving the West.” She emphasized that WICHE's mission aligns with George’s focus on closing educational achievement gaps.
Born in Minnesota but raised internationally, George graduated from Punahou School in Honolulu before earning degrees from Stanford University, Tufts University, and an executive MBA from Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. He resides with his wife Julie, a retired teacher, and their two children.