Biography

Shari Larsen (née Dela Cuadra) is the Associate Dean of Student Services at the William S. Richardson School of Law. A proud alumna, she is deeply committed to the mission, vision, and values of Richardson Law. Dean Larsen is privileged to serve this ‘āina (land), its people, and the global community by leading the Office of Student Services team in supporting the academic endeavors of the next generation of Richardson Lawyers. She draws upon nearly two decades of public service experience within education, government, and nonprofit sectors where she strategically led statewide initiatives that advanced opportunities for all with targeted benefits for historically underserved communities.

As a law student she contributed to drafting Hawaiʻi’s Language Access Law, then later supported the establishment of the Office of Language Access to ensure individuals with no or limited English proficiency meaningfully access state and state-funded services. Her career with the Hawai‘i Department of Education focused on building student-centered systems and delivering transformative organizational improvements to advance student achievement. She has directed the implementation of state and federal educational programs, advised senior officials, partnered with local, national and federal stakeholders, and conducted complex civil rights and misconduct investigations to ensure legal compliance and maintain safe learning and working environments. Her professional experiences reflect a consistent commitment to access, clarity of process, and measurable outcomes.

Dean Larsen is dedicated to working collaboratively with her team, and with internal and external partners to establish systems of support that address the individual academic and professional needs of Richardson Law students. She engages all with respect and supports each student’s path with care and intention. She looks forward to devoting time to learn each student’s “why” and what people, ʻāina (land), or living or past treasure brought them to Richardson Law. Dean Larsen is eager to empower students by facilitating their access to the resources and relationships necessary to ensure lifelong success beyond their ancestors’ dreams.

Dean Larsen’s husband, Lance, is also a Richardson Law graduate. Together they are raising four children to hold deep gratitude for life’s abundance. These four children are also her greatest life teachers as she is privileged to experience the world through their eyes, hearts, and minds.