MEDIA RELEASE

Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s Deputy Director of Communications will be the new Director of Communications at the state Department of Education.

Donalyn Dela Cruz begins her new post Nov. 1. Her last day with the governor’s office is Oct. 31.

“I will miss working with Donalyn on a day-to-day basis but am very happy that she will continue to serve within state government to advance our New Day Plan,” Abercrombie said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for Donalyn, and I am more so pleased that the Administration and the state will continue to benefit from her expertise. Education is one of my highest priorities, and Donalyn is ready to take on this new challenge as the Department of Education continues to make necessary systemic changes.”

“I am looking forward to serving the State in this new capacity,” Dela Cruz said. “It has been a great honor to serve the Governor and help implement his New Day Plan. The Governor’s commitment to making positive changes to education is clear and the collective investment by our leaders is unprecedented. In my new role, I will be able to focus on the education elements of his New Day Plan, which include the goal of restoring public confidence in our schools.”

Dela Cruz also has served as the governor’s press secretary since the beginning of his term. During the interim, Deputy Chief of Staff Blake Oshiro will oversee communications in the Office of the Governor.

Abercrombie’s New Day agenda for education is moving forward on ensuring that principals and teachers get the support needed to accomplish student achievement goals.

Since taking office he has realized several items set forth in the New Day Plan, including incorporating the superintendent of schools into the Governor’s cabinet, competing in President Obama’s “Race to the Top,” and generating public-private investments in schools.