Special Thank You to James Otieno, Palo Alto University Board Chair

Palo Alto University would like to thank Mr. James Otieno for his dedication to us for the last two decades.  James has been a member of the Board of Trustees at PAU for 20 years and has chaired PAU’s board for the last seven years.  He will leave his position at the end of July 2017. 

Championing Diversity and Growth

Over his time here with us, James has dedicated himself to student services, leadership, organization and financial wellness.  He has worked tirelessly to ensure tuition costs have remained stable for our students, as well as championing diversity in our culture and helping grow our community both locally and internationally.

High Recognition

In recognition of his commitment and dedication, James was presented with The Kantor Award during the doctorate graduation in 2017.  He remarked, “Imagine my utmost surprise to be honored with the Robert E. Kantor medal award for community leadership and an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Palo Alto University.  I was stunned at the time and am deeply honored. Thank you.  As I leave my chairman position, I will continue to embody and evangelize the mental health focus of PAU’s Engaging Minds, Improving Lives.  It is a privilege to be a member of the PAU community.  Together, we can positively impact the human condition.”

He also received the inaugural Dan L. King Award for College and Trustee Leadership from the American Association of University Administrators (AAUA) in 2016.   This award is to be given annually to a college or university board member whose service exemplifies a commitment to higher education and who demonstrates the highest ethical standards.   In 2014 James received the 2014 Gardner Award for his dedication and commitment higher education.

Beginning August 2017, Dan Kostenbauder, who served as PAU’s member of Board of Trustees for 33 years and chaired for 8 years in the 1990s, will become the new Chairperson.