Cameron Deptula ’18, Special Advisor to Gov. Josh Green, visited Punahou School on Jan. 20 to share an insider’s perspective on how decisions are made at the highest levels of Hawaiʻi state government. Speaking with Academy students, faculty and staff, Deptula outlined how public policy is shaped through collaboration, compromise and a clear problem-solving framework.
Deptula traced his path into government, beginning with his work during the COVID-19 pandemic on Rick Blangiardi’s 2020 mayoral campaign, where he served as deputy campaign manager. In 2021, he was recruited to Gov. Green’s team, helping manage the transition from the Ige administration and assisting with the hiring of an entirely new staff.
He also reflected on crisis governance following the 2023 Maui wildfires, describing the administration’s push for swift, equitable solutions. That effort included working to secure compensation for residents and collaborating with Japanese leaders like Uniqlo President, Tadashi Yanai to deliver 50 temporary modular homes for survivors in just six months – now housing more than 100 people.
Throughout the talk, Deptula emphasized dialogue across differences, noting that effective public policy requires integrity, self-awareness of bias and a willingness to compromise. In a Q&A session, he addressed topics ranging from renewable energy goals and healthcare access on neighbor islands to housing, tourism strategy and the realities of campaigning versus governing – leaving students with a practical look at public service in action.