Women We Admire is pleased to announce the Top 50 Women Leaders of Hawaii for 2023. Hawaii’s vibrant economy mirrors the stunning landscapes that surround it. The state’s diverse economic landscape thrives on tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. With its robust tourism industry, visitors from around the world contribute significantly, fueling the local businesses that make the islands come alive.
In addition to tourism, Hawaii’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and technological advancements position it as a dynamic player in the global market. The islands are not only a paradise for leisure seekers but also a hub for cutting-edge research and development. From cultivating tropical fruits to harnessing renewable energy, Hawaii is at the forefront of environmentally conscious practices. As a result, the state has become a magnet for forward-thinking businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to align themselves with a thriving economy that values innovation, sustainability, and the unique cultural tapestry that defines the spirit of Hawaii.
Among this year’s honorees is Dr. Ivanova, a professor and a laureate of several national awards and international recognitions. She is also the Founding Director and the Principal Investigator of the NSF-funded S-STEM Program at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. We also recognize Susan Asam, Vice President of ICF. Asam has over 20 years of experience evaluating the physical impacts of climate change on infrastructure, water resources, and sensitive ecosystems.
Lastly, Tricia Medeiros, Chief Operating Officer at The Plaza Assisted Living. She was the first employee of the Plaza brand and has helped to shepherd the company for the past twenty years with the highest level of integrity, respect, and compassion. Medeiros’ contagious work ethic and guidance have allowed the Plaza to grow, continually improve, and become a leader in the assisted living industry.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Hawaii for 2023.
1. Shannon Okinaka
EVP & Chief Financial Officer, Hawaiian Airlines
Shannon Okinaka was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Hawaiian Airlines in May 2015. Previous to this appointment, she served as an SVP and interim CFO since January 2015. Okinaka joined Hawaiian Airlines as a senior director in charge of Sarbanes-Oxley compliance and special projects before being promoted to VP and controller in 2011.
She was raised on Hawai‘i’s Big Island and graduated from Waiākea High School in Hilo. Okinaka went on to earn an undergraduate degree in management information systems and accounting from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Prior to joining Hawaiian Airlines, Okinaka worked for Hawaiian Electric Co. and Coopers & Lybrand/PricewaterhouseCoopers. Okinaka serves on the board of directors of the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce, Island Insurance Company, and Universal Technical Institute, Inc. She is also an appointee to the State of Hawai‘i Workforce Development Council.
2. Darlena Chadwick
EVP & Chief Operating Officer, The Queen's Health System
Darlena Chadwick is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of The Queen's Health System. The Queen's Health System is a non-profit healthcare organization with a rich history of caring for the people of Hawai'i. They have four hospitals and more than 70 preventive, specialty healthcare locations and labs throughout the Pacific region. Chadwick brings an abundance of experience to these roles, having built successful clinical programs in oncology, women's health, neuroscience, and other services. She is focused on improving patient health by increasing access to care, whether that care is delivered in a clinic, in the hospital, or at home.
Chadwick joined The Queen's Health System in 2005 and previously served as an SVP and COO of The Queen's Medical Center – West O'ahu. During her tenure, she positively impacted patient outcomes and operating margins and led the development of programs that brought high-quality health care to one of Hawai'i's fastest-growing communities. Prior to that, Chadwick served as The Queen's Medical Center's VP of patient care for oncology, women's health, and professional services, with neuroscience and pharmacy coming under her purview soon after. While in that position, she also served as a COO for the Hawai'i Cancer Consortium for the University of Hawai'i Cancer Center. Chadwick also brings years of education to the workforce, as she has received her Master of Business Administration in Healthcare from California Coastal University, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Medical University of South Carolina, and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix. Before moving to Hawai’i, she spent 11 ½ years on active duty in the Air Force as well as nine years in the Air Force Reserves.
3. Kelli Trifonovitch
Chief Communications Officer, University of Hawai‘i System
Kelli Trifonovitch is the Chief Communications Officer of the University of Hawai'i System. The University of Hawai'i System includes ten campuses and dozens of educational, training, and research centers across the Hawaiian Islands. Established in 1907, it is the state's sole public system of higher education. Trifonovitch has more than 20 years of journalism experience in broadcast, print, and new media and is known for being a skilled communicator, leader, and problem solver.
Before joining the University of Hawai'i System, Trifonovitch was a director of communications and outreach at the University of Hawai'i and, before that, a director of publications and information at the University of Hawai'i–West O'ahu. Earlier in her career, she worked with KGMB9 as a reporter. Trifonovitch graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in journalism.
4. Stacy Djou
SVP & Chief Compliance Officer of Fair Banking and Fair Lending, Bank of Hawai'i
Stacey Djou is the Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Fair Banking and Fair Lending at the Bank of Hawai'i. She first joined the company in 2023. Bank of Hawai'i is the primary subsidiary of Bank of Hawai'i Corporation. The financial institution was founded in 1897 and is the largest independent financial institution in Hawaii. Previously, Djou was a senior manager of compliance, technology, and innovation at Deloitte and, before that, an SVP and director of technology strategy and project management at American Savings Bank. Earlier in her career, she worked with the University of Hawai'i's William S. Richardson School of Law as an adjunct professor.
5. Gidget Ruscetta
Chief Operating Officer, Pali Momi Medical Center, Hawaii Pacific Health
Gidget Ruscetta is the Chief Operating Officer at Pali Momi Medical Center at Hawaii Pacific Health. She first joined the organization in 2011 as VP of hospital operations at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children. At Hawaii Pacific Health, their mission is to create a healthier Hawaii. They believe that by working together, they can make the greatest impact on individuals, families, and their communities.
Ruscetta is an accomplished and influential healthcare executive with nearly three decades of progressive leadership experience. She has extensive experience in pediatric, women’s, and adult hospital and physician practice management within large multi-specialty, multi-facility, and integrated healthcare systems. She’s known for her outstanding collaboration and relationship-building skills and a history of successful partnerships with physicians, leaders, and staff to improve the delivery of care. Previously, Ruscetta was a physician practice administrator at Nemours Children's Clinic. She earned an MBA from Florida Metropolitan University and an undergraduate degree in nursing science from the University of South Carolina.
6. Darlene Blakeney
Executive Vice President & Chief Lending Officer, First Hawaiian Bank
Darlene Blakeney is the Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of Wholesale Banking Group. She joined First Hawaiian Bank in 2015 and was appointed EVP and division manager of the Corporate Banking Division in 2021. First Hawaiian Bank offers wealth management, security loans, credit card services, and insurance plans.
Blakeney has over 25 years of experience in banking and finance focusing on credit review, commercial real estate, small business, and corporate lending. She also served as the director of finance and operations for a non-profit educational institution in Honolulu from 2006 to 2015. Blakeney earned an undergraduate degree and an MBA from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School and the National Commercial Lending Graduate School.
7. Stefanie Park
Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, HMSA
Stefanie Park is a Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of HMSA. She first joined the organization in 2013 as medical director. The Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a reliable name in Hawaii health care. Established in 1938, they are the largest and most experienced provider of healthcare coverage in the state. Over half of Hawaii's population has chosen HMSA for their health care coverage. Park earned an MD in internal medicine residency program from the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine and an MBA in healthcare administration and management from the University of Hawai‘i - Shidler College of Business.
8. Anna Hu
EVP & Chief Credit Officer, Central Pacific Bank
Anna Hu brings over 30 years of financial industry experience to her current role as the Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of Central Pacific Financial Corporation. Established in 1954, Central Pacific Bank is a Hawai’i-based financial institution with branch locations statewide. The bank has a long, proud history of providing exceptional service to its customers and contributing to the community. Hu is responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of the bank’s credit risk in the loan portfolios. In her role, she also has oversight of credit administration, credit services, special assets, retail loan collections and recoveries, real estate-owned assets, and enterprise risk management.
Previously, Hu was a VP and corporate banking officer at the Bank of Hawaii and before that an SVP and senior special asset officer at Central Pacific Bank. Hu earned an undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She is active in the community and currently serves on the boards of Aloha Council Boy Scouts and Sacred Hearts Academy, is a trustee of Public Schools of Hawaii Foundation, and a member of the national RMA Community Bank Council.
9. Diana Brown
Chief People Officer, Servco Pacific
Diana Brown is the Chief People Officer of Servco Pacific. Founded in 1919 as a two-car repair garage on the North Shore of Oahu, Servco Pacific Inc. is Hawaii's largest private company with operations in the United States and Australia. Servco owns a diverse group of automotive businesses, including exclusive distributorships of Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru in Hawaii, a network of over 30 retail dealerships in Australia and Hawaii, and Hui Car Share.
With over 20 years of experience as an HR Leader, Brown has worked in every facet of HR, and her true passion is elevating people and leaders to become the best versions of themselves. She is passionate about ensuring they have great people who can enable their business' success and create an environment where their teams can be great.
Previously, Brown was a head of people at Eco and, before that, a VP and head of international HR at Capital One. Earlier in her career, she worked with UnitedHealth Group as an employee assistance program coordinator. Brown earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from Virginia Tech.
10. Melinda Sweany
Chief Development Officer, Maui Health System
Melinda Sweany is the Chief Development Officer of Maui Health System. Sweany is a healthcare executive with 20+ years of demonstrated leadership and philanthropy skills. Over the past five years alone, she has been instrumental in raising more than $44 million through events, capital campaigns, direct asks, and new strategies. She has developed an annual gala and grew it from a $1M to a $3.1M fundraiser.
Before joining Maui Health System, Sweany was a director of development at Queen of the Valley Medical Center and, before that, a director of development at St. Helena Hospital Foundation. Earlier in her career, she worked with St. Helena Hospital Foundation as a development manager. Sweany graduated from Vanguard University of Southern California with an undergraduate degree in English language, literature, and letters.
11. Michele Kaneshiro
Chief Financial Officer, Carrier Hawaii
Michele Kaneshiro began her professional career 34 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Financial Officer of Carrier Hawai’i. Carrier Hawai’i is the largest air conditioning distributor in Hawaii. They locally stock the largest equipment inventory and replacement parts, which reduces downtime for commercial customers and homeowners. Kaneshiro first got her start in 1989 as an audit manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers. From there, she went on to Aloha as a controller. Kaneshiro graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
12. Michelle Leon-Guerrero
Chief Administrative Officer, Hawaiian Host Group
Michelle Leon-Guerrero is the Chief Administrative Officer of Hawaiian Host Group. She first joined the company in 2019 as senior director of talent management. Hawaiian Host Group is a leading Hawai‘i-based consumer goods company with a portfolio of brands that includes Hawaiian Host, Mauna Loa, MacFarms, KOHO, and Royal Hawaiian Orchards. Sold in over 23 countries, HHG produces a suite of products ranging from flavored macadamia nuts to artisan chocolates and macadamia milk-based ice cream.
Previously, Leon-Guerrero was a director of benefits at ProService Hawaii and, before that, an HR and payroll admin at Horizon Lines. Earlier in her career, she worked with Young Brothers, LLC, as a benefits specialist. Leon-Guerrero earned an MBA in human resources management and services from the University of Hawai‘i - Shidler College of Business and an undergraduate degree in tourism and travel services management from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
13. Andrea Mue
SVP & Chief Financial Executive, Aqua-Aston Hospitality
Andrea Mue boasts 23 years of hospitality experience in her current role as the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Executive of Aqua-Aston Hospitality. Headquartered in Honolulu, Hawai’i, Aqua-Aston has a legacy stretching back to 1948. The company manages full-service resorts, stylish boutique hotels, select-service properties, and condominium resorts. In addition to its proprietary brands, Aqua Hotels & Resorts, and Aston Hotels & Resorts, the company is an approved, third-party operator of global hospitality brands by Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, and IHG.
Mue first got her start in 2000 as a manager at Ernst & Young. From there, she went on to Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants before eventually rising to EVP and CFO at The Chartres Lodging Group & Kokua Hospitality, her most recent position prior to joining Aqua-Aston Hospitality. Mue graduated from UC Santa Barbara with an undergraduate degree in business economics.
14. Shari Oshiro
Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Shari Oshiro began her professional career 20 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific. Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific (REHAB) is a premier acute-care rehabilitation hospital dedicated to providing the highest quality of comprehensive and innovative inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services. Oshiro first got her start in 2003 as a physical medicine and rehabilitation resident at The Mount Sinai Hospital. She graduated from the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine with an MD and from Pomona College with an undergraduate degree in biology and public policy.
15. Kalani Redmayne
Chief Executive Officer, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
Kalani Redmayne is the CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Hawaiʻi. Kalani has over 30 years of healthcare experience. She joined UnitedHealthcare in 1999 and has served in many leadership roles including sales, marketing, operations, and product. Most recently, Kalani led network teams in both Hawaiʻi and Oregon as the VP of network. Kalani was born and raised in Oʻahu and is a graduate of the Kamehameha Schools.
16. Tricia Medeiros
Chief Operating Officer, The Plaza Assisted Living
Tricia Medeiros is the Chief Operating Officer of The Plaza Assisted Living, where she oversees the operations of all The Plaza Assisted Living communities, including The Plaza at Punchbowl, The Plaza at Mililani, The Plaza at Moanalua, The Plaza at Pearl City, The Plaza at Waikiki, and The Plaza at Kaneohe. The Plaza Assisted Living is a platform for finding senior living options for aging parents.
Born in Kailua, Hawaii, Medeiros graduated from West Chester University in Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Medeiros started her senior living career with Atria Assisted Living, where she worked on the corporate transition team, providing training and support for communities requiring assistance with compliance, census, and other operational difficulties. In her career, she has opened eight newly constructed assisted living communities and transitioned seven communities into compliance in Hawaii and the Mainland.
Medeiros also has an extensive background in working with Dementia and has served a variety of functions (including chairman) on the Alzheimer’s Association (Aloha Chapter)’s Board of Directors. Currently, Medeiros is a member of the Board of Directors for the Healthcare Association of Hawaii, including the ALF/ARCH Chair and the State of Hawaii’s NCAL State Leader. Medeiros has been instrumental in The Plaza Assisted Living’s continued growth since the company’s inception in 2004.
17. Esther Roberts
Vice President & Division Counsel, D.R. Horton
Esther Roberts began her professional career 26 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President and Division Counsel of D.R. Horton. DR Horton started in 1978 in Fort Worth, Texas, and has grown into a national Fortune 500 company. Since 2002, D.R. Horton has been the number one homebuilder in America.
Roberts first got her start in 1997 as a law clerk to the honorable Chief Justice Ronald t.y. Moon as an administrative law clerk. From there, she went on to O'Melveny & Myers LLP before eventually rising to become a director at Case Lombardi & Pettit, her most recent position before joining DR Horton. Roberts graduated from New York University School of Law with a JD and from the University of Virginia with an undergraduate degree in East Asian studies.
18. Susan Asam
Vice President, ICF
Susan Asam is the Vice President of ICF, a global consulting and technology services company with approximately 9,000 employees, but they are not your typical consultants. At ICF, business analysts and policy specialists work together with digital strategists, data scientists, and creatives. They combine unmatched industry expertise with cutting-edge engagement capabilities to help organizations solve their most complex challenges. Since 1969, public and private sector clients have worked with ICF to navigate change and shape the future. Asam has over 20 years of experience evaluating the physical impacts of climate change on infrastructure, water resources, and sensitive ecosystems; developing adaptation strategies; planning and facilitating meetings; and developing technical documents and outreach products to translate climate information for use by a wide variety of audiences.
Asam graduated from Duke University with a master’s in environmental management and a master’s in public policy and from Yale University with an undergraduate degree in studies in the environment.
19. Molly Johnston
Vice President of Development, American Heart Association
Molly Johnston is the Vice President of Development at the American Heart Association. She first joined the organization in 2019 as senior business director of Heart Walk. Leadership, teamwork, and strategic partnerships are how she builds successful internal teams and bridges external relationships to accomplish transformational change in communities. Johnston is a connector across boundaries, finding passion points and interest areas for each individual as well as the company to make a meaningful impact.
Previously, Johnston was a senior director in Bike MS at the National MS Society and, before that, a JV basketball coach at Newport High School. Earlier in her career, she worked with Select Staffing as an account representative. Johnston earned an undergraduate degree in education, PE, and health from Western Washington University.
20. Bethany Bateman
Senior Vice President of Strategic Operations, National University
Bethany Bateman began her professional career 22 years ago. Today, she is the Senior Vice President of Strategic Operations of National University. Since 1971, National Univeristy has supported working professionals who want to be a powerful force for positive change. They were the first to develop a flexible, one-class-per-month format. They offer more than 120 graduate and undergraduate degree programs.
Bateman first got her start in 2001 as an executive director of training at the University of Phoenix. From there, she went on to Barker Educational Services Team before eventually rising to VP of strategic operations at National Education Partners, her most recent position prior to joining National University. Bateman graduated from Western International University with an MBA in marketing and from Arizona State University with an undergraduate degree in international business.
21. Denise Konan
President, Hawaii Asia-Pacific Institute
Denise Konan began her professional career 35 years ago. Today, she is the President of the Hawaii Asia-Pacific Institute. Established in 1991, the Hawai‘i Asia Pacific Institute (HAPI) is a non-profit organization headquartered in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Their mission is to promote peace, economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and regional cooperation in Hawai‘i, Asia, and the Pacific through research, education, and people-to-people relations.
Konan is also a driving force behind the launch of a workforce development program in the fast-growing field of national intelligence. With her guidance, the college established a program that provides UH Mānoa students with the opportunity to network and mentor with industry experts from Hawaiʻi-based firms while gaining a first-hand look at this sector. Konan served for two years as the interim chancellor and for three years as the assistant vice chancellor of UH Mānoa. She received her undergraduate degree from Goshen College and her doctorate from the University of Colorado.
22. Marinel Robinson
Senior Vice President of Development, Discovery Land Company
Marinel Robinson is Senior Vice President of Development for the Makena Golf & Beach Club - a Discovery Land Co. project in Wailea-Makena, Maui, Hawaii. Robinson leads and manages a team of design and construction professionals charged with delivering the property’s Beach Club and spa and a collection of townhomes and condominium structures.
Robinson joined Discovery Land Co. in 2019, bringing more than 30 years of development, planning, and construction knowledge. She has a wealth of real estate experience with a diversified product mix, including luxury resorts, mixed-use retail and multifamily housing, adaptive reuse, and single-family luxury housing. Robinson graduated at the top of her class from the University of Southern California with a master’s degree in real estate development. She is a California-licensed general contractor and real estate broker.
23. Shelee Kimura
President and Chief Executive Officer, Hawaiian Electric
Shelee Kimura is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hawaiian Electric, which serves 95% of Hawaii’s population on the islands of Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, and Molokai and is committed to serving communities with safe, affordable, reliable, clean energy. Kimura was appointed to her current role in January 2022 and previously served as SVP of customer service and public affairs and SVP of business development and strategic planning.
Kimura provided leadership for the company’s customer care initiatives through the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn, making equity and access a top priority while improving customer satisfaction and stakeholder engagement. She led the development of Hawaiian Electric’s 2015- 2020 Strategic Transformation Plan. During that period, she strengthened and grew the Hawaii market for affordable, clean energy resources and launched the electric transportation division, which will play a critical role in helping decarbonize Hawaii’s economy.
Kimura first got her start in 1996 as a manager of consulting at Arthur Andersen Business Consulting. From there, she went on to KMH LLP before eventually rising to manager of investor relations and strategic planning at Hawaiian Electric Industries, her most recent position prior to joining Hawaiian Electric. Kimura graduated from the University of Hawai‘i - Shidler College of Business with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
24. Rebecca Judge
Vice President of Corporate Marketing, including Health
Rebecca Judge began her professional career 25 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President of Corporate Marketing of Included Health. Included Health is a new kind of healthcare company delivering integrated virtual care and navigation. They're on a mission to raise the standard of healthcare for everyone. They break down barriers to provide high-quality care for every person in every community
Judge first got her start in 1998 as a director of corporate communications and investor relations at Trilogy. From there, she went on to Kibu.com before eventually rising to VP of corporate marketing at Doctor On Demand, her most recent position before joining Included Health. Judge graduated from Duke University Sanford School of Public Policy.
25. Kerri Duyne
Vice President of Development, YMCA of Honolulu
First joining the organization in 2011, Kerri Duyne is now the Vice President of Development of the YMCA of Honolulu. The YMCA of Honolulu is one of the largest non-profit organizations in the state. It was founded in 1869 and incorporated under the laws of the Kingdom of Hawai’i in 1882. The organization serves more than 100,000 individuals in a variety of programs annually.
Previously, Duyne was an assistant VP in Manoa Leadership Gifts at the University of Hawai‘i Foundation and, before that, a director of development in the College of Engineering at the University of Hawaii Foundation. Earlier in her career, she worked with the University of San Diego as a development director. Duyne earned an undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
26. Lei Fountain
Chief Executive Officer, The Arc in Hawaii
Lei Fountain is the Chief Executive Officer of The Arc in Hawaii. She first joined the company in 2011 as executive director. The Arc in Hawaii is committed to helping Hawaii’s people with intellectual disabilities secure the power to choose where and how they live, learn, work, and play in the community. The Arc in Hawaii provides direct services to adults, while advocacy efforts include both adults and children. They are a membership organization consisting of parents, relatives, friends, and community supporters of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Fountain was previously an operations manager at Marlin Distributors and, before that, a communications manager at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Earlier in her career, she worked with American Hawaii Cruises as a VP of destination services. Fountain earned an MBA in marketing from The University of Hawaii at Manoa and an undergraduate degree in accounting from The University of Redlands.
27. Julie Nakayama
Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, KYO-YA Management Company
Julie Nakayama began her professional career 25 years ago and is now the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of KYO-YA Management Company. Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, LP is the steward of six hotel and resort properties in Hawaii and California, including such historical and cultural treasures as the first hotel built in Waikiki, the Moana Hotel; the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” The Royal Hawaiian Hotel; and the landmark, century-old Palace Hotel in San Francisco.
Nakayama first got her start in 1998 as an assistant director of finance at Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts LP. From there, she went on to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., her most recent position prior to joining KYO-YA Management Company. Nakayama graduated from the University of Hawai‘i - Shidler College of Business with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
28. Sara Hill
Chief Executive Officer, Handcrafted
Sara Hill is the Chief Executive Officer of Handcrafted. Handcrafted restaurants are driven by a deep dedication to the art of craft. Hill has played an integral role in Handcrafted Restaurants. She began her career as an assistant to the president in 2012 and throughout the years has advanced with HCR. She has 15 years of experience. She began her career in 2008.
Before joining Handcrafted, Hill was a VP of development and general counsel at Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman and, before that, a student attorney at Washington College of Law General Practice Clinic. Earlier in her career, she worked with Sidley Austin as a legal assistant. Hill graduated from the American University Washington College of Law with a JD and from the University of Oklahoma with an undergraduate degree in international and religious studies.
29. Rory Kaneshiro
Chief Compliance Officer & Privacy Officer, University Health Partners of Hawaii
Rory Kaneshiro is the Chief Compliance Officer and Privacy Officer of University Health Partners of Hawaii. She first joined the organization in 2018. Kaneshiro is a healthcare compliance professional and attorney with an MBA and experience in nonprofit management and governance, risk management, and medical professional liability administration. She has worked for healthcare systems, non-profit organizations, state government, and higher education administration.
Previously, Kaneshiro was a director of risk and clinical affairs at the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine and, before that, a contracts manager at the University of Hawai‘i System. Earlier in her career, she worked with the State of Oregon as a performance auditor. Kaneshiro earned a JD from Willamette University College of Law, an MBA, and an undergraduate degree in biology and French from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
30. Tamar Lani
President and Chief Executive Officer, Isle Interpret
Tamar Lani is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Isle Interpret. She first joined the company in 2010. Isle Interpret is a kama'aina interpreting agency located in Oahu, Hawaii. They are committed to strengthening relationships and empowering communities through capacity-building initiatives and by facilitating seamless communication access between deaf and hearing persons in Hawaii and the Pacific region, all with the spirit of ALOHA.
Previously, Lani was a doTERRA wellness advocate at Essential Oil 'Ohana and, before that, a CEO at ‘Terpreting Connection, Inc. Earlier in her career, she worked with Purple Communications, Inc. as a center manager. Lani earned an MBA in management and strategy from Western Governors University and an undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies in linguistics and second language studies from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
31. Reni Ivanova
Professor, University of Hawaii at Hilo
Dr. Reni Ivanova is a distinguished professor, international researcher, award-winning educator, prolific author, innovative program creator, dynamic leader, effective project consultant, inspiring academic mentor, certified success coach, sought-after speaker, dedicated contributor to the global academic profession, and philanthropist.
She holds a BS in mathematics, an MS in mathematics education, an ESL Oxford Certificate, and a PhD in information geometry. She is an International Scholar and Fellow of the Japan Society for Promotion of Science (JSPS), Japan, a certified success coach, and a Fellow of the Harvard Institute of Coaching.
Currently, Dr. Ivanova is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo, the creator and leader of four innovative learner-centered educational programs for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students' success, and the Founding Director of the STEM Honors Program.
32. Jodi Chang
Managing Director & Investment Officer of Pinnacle Wealth Management Group, Wells Fargo Advisors
Jodi Chang is a Managing Director and Investment Officer of Pinnacle Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. As a Financial Advisor, Chang’s greatest gifts are the relationships she has with her clients. She joined Wells Fargo Advisors in 2016 after serving clients for over 20 years at two Fortune 100 wealth management firms.
Chang was born and raised in Hawaii as the second child of four. Her passion for helping others was ingrained by watching her father, who was a blue-collar worker, and her mother, originally from Japan, work hard to provide for their family and did not know “how to” invest. Chang has dedicated her career to helping clients grow and manage their wealth through up-and-down markets.
Chang earned an undergraduate degree in finance and international business from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She started as an intern and worked her way to be a financial advisor. She maintains her Series 7, 63, and 65 securities registrations and holds a certified financial planner certification.
33. Patricia Pancner
Regional VP of Operations & Senior Executive Director, Bristol Hospice
Patricia Pancner is an experienced Vice President with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital and healthcare industry. She is skilled in patient advocacy, nursing education, Medicaid, case management, and strategic planning and possesses strong business development professionalism.
Beginning her career in 2001, she is now the Regional Vice President of Operations and Senior Executive Director of Bristol Hospice. Bristol Hospice is graciously committed to its mission that all patients and families entrusted to their care will be treated with the highest level of compassion, respect, and quality of care.
Before joining Bristol Hospice, Pancner was a VP of clinical services at Hosparus Health and before that a VP of operations at Kindred at Home. Earlier in her career, she worked with SouthernCare, Inc. as a regional president. Pancner graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) with a master’s degree in hospice and palliative care from Indiana Wesleyan University with an undergraduate degree in nursing.
34. Glaiza Kamano
Executive Director, Hawaii, American Heart Association
Glaiza Kamano is the executive director of the American Heart Association, the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization in Hawai'i. Their purpose is to help Americans live heart-healthy and prevent America's No. 1 and No. 5 killers, heart disease and stroke. Kamano has 12 years of experience. She began her career in 2011.
Before joining the American Heart Association, Kamano was an account executive at Yelp and, before that, a revenue manager at Outrigger Hotels & Resorts. Earlier in her career, she worked with Kaiser Permanente as a senior staff assistant. Kamano graduated from Hawaii Pacific University with an MA in communication and from UC San Diego with an undergraduate degree in communications and ethnic studies.
35. Kerry Murphy
Medicare Growth Director, UnitedHealthcare
Kerry Murphy is the Medicare Growth Director of UnitedHealthcare. She has 23 years of experience. She is a business-focused sales director experienced in spearheading all aspects of regional sales, marketing, business development, retention strategies, customer acquisition and management, the development of consultative strategies and materials, and the strategic direction of teams to achieve outcomes.
Murphy is adept in leading territory growth and penetration, relationship development, pipeline growth, and strategic alignment with overall strategy while building and managing high-performance sales teams, directing all sales business activities among distribution channels, and ensuring all business targets and membership goals are met for sales growth and retention.
Before joining UnitedHealthcare, Murphy was an account service representative at Health Net. Murphy graduated from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University with an MBA in human resources management and personnel administration and from DeVry University with an undergraduate degree in technical management.
36. Charissa Rujanavech
Senior Director of Climate, Circularity and Innovation, Albertsons Companies
Charissa Rujanavech is the Senior Director of Climate, Circularity, and Innovation at Albertsons Companies. Albertsons Companies is one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, with over 2,200 stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia, 22 distribution centers, and 19 manufacturing plants. She began her career in 2009 and boasts 14 years of experience.
Before joining Albertsons Companies, Rujanavech was a principal of circular economy and sustainability, science, and innovation at Amazon and, before that, a director of technology at Maui Greens, Inc. Earlier in her career, she worked with Cornell University as a field ornithologist. Rujanavech graduated from Yale University with a MEM in business, environment, and industrial ecology and from the University of Colorado Boulder with an undergraduate degree in ecology and evolutionary biology.
37. Regina Fivella
Director of Military and Family Support Center, US Navy
Regina Fivella began her professional career 25 years ago. Today, she is the Director of the Military and Family Support Center for the US Navy. The center provides the right services at the right time, to strengthen personal and family competencies to meet the unique challenges of the military lifestyle. Fivella has served her community through the Airman & Family Readiness Center. She graduated from Hawaii Pacific University with an MBA in management.
38. Anne Weber-Yarbrough
Managing Director of Regional Initiatives, Teach For America
Anne Weber-Yarbrough is committed to community and equity-- she is a non-profit leader, entrepreneur, and educator with a strong drive toward social impact and equitable outcomes. She believes that everyone has a role to play in this work and strives for this vision in her personal life, volunteer roles, and professional life. She is currently the Managing Director of Regional Initiatives at Teach For America Hawaiʻi, a national non-profit dedicated to the vision that one day, all children will receive an excellent and equitable education.
As a co-founder at Impact Hub HNL, she managed community programs, events, marketing, communications, and operations. She is an educator with a passion for building sustainable communities and making a social impact, and she's committed to the belief that everyone has a role to play in this work.
Anne currently serves on the boards of Kanu Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking, and the Patsy T. Mink Leadership Alliance Alumni Council. In her free time, she actively volunteers with several local non-profits. Previously, she served on the National Advisory Council for the Native Alliance Initiative for Teach for America, lobbying in DC on behalf of indigenous students. Weber-Yarbrough graduated from Loyola Marymount University with an undergraduate degree in economics and philosophy.
39. Diann Hartman
Director of Marketing Communications, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Diann Hartman is the Director of Marketing Communications at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. She first joined the company in 2007. Hartman is a marketing communications professional with extensive experience in digital and print marketing, advertising, social media, corporate social responsibility, developing strategic partnerships, media relations, and PR.
Hartman crafts and implements multi-channel marketing solutions to support business objectives. Previously, she was an associate director at Five Mountains Hawaii and, before that, a marketing coordinator at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Hartman earned an undergraduate degree in communications from UC San Diego.
40. Lynnsey Okada
Audit Managing Director, Deloitte
In her 14-year career with Deloitte, Lynnsey Okada has served in various industries and roles, including two years in Deloitte’s National Office within the Accounting and Reporting Services group, where she consulted with engagement teams and clients on complex accounting transactions and issues. Since her return to audit services, she has continued to use her technical acumen, industry expertise, collaborative work style, and passion for client service and audit quality to prioritize providing the highest level of support to her teams while delivering exceptional service to clients. She also currently serves as the Energy Tech Market Segment Deployment Leader for the Bay Area.
41. Emi Koyano
Senior Director of Sales & Marketing, Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Emi Koyano is the Senior Director of Sales and Marketing of Marriott Vacations Worldwide. Marriott Vacations Worldwide is a Florida-based hospitality company that provides vacation ownership to offer flexible vacation ownership programs, giving customers the opportunity to become owners as well as the ability to choose the style of vacationing that suits their needs, year after year.
Beginning her career in 1996, Koyano has 27 years of experience. Koyano was instrumental in the creation of the eastbound business (Japanese market) at Marriott’s Ko’Olina Beach Club as Marriott Vacations Worldwide's first Japanese business.
Koyano joined the Hilton Grand Vacations as a regional managing director of international sales in Hawaii, she then became the regional VP of international sales in Hawaii. Following her promotion, she returned to Marriott as the Senior Director of Sales and Marketing. Early on in her career in the hotel industry, she worked as a sales manager. Koyano graduated from Nihon University with an undergraduate degree in health, physical education, and fitness.
42. Audrey Torres
Director of Education, Adventist Health
Audrey Torres is the Director of Education at Adventist Health. She first joined the organization in 2017 as manager of clinical education. Adventist Health is a faith-inspired, nonprofit integrated health system serving more than 80 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii with over 400 sites of care. Founded on Adventist heritage and values, Adventist Health provides care in hospitals, clinics, home care agencies, hospice agencies, and joint-venture retirement centers in both rural and urban communities. Previously, Torres was a director of nursing and education at Adventist Health Castle. She earned a doctorate in nursing from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
43. Ashley Degeus
Director of Business Operations, TEKsystems
Ashley Degeus began her professional career 14 years ago. Today, she is the Director of Business Operations of TEKsystems. TEKsystems is an industry leader in full-stack technology services, talent services, and real-world applications. Their longstanding history and industry-leading position speak to their success in providing IT services and talent solutions that empower organizations to actualize ROI and sustain a truly competitive advantage in a fast-changing market.
Degeus first got her start in 2009 as a recruiter lead applications at CDM Media. From there, she went on to the University of San Diego before eventually rising to GM at Abercrombie & Fitch Co., her most recent position before joining TEKsystems. Degeus graduated from the University of San Diego with an undergraduate degree in communication studies and business marketing.
44. Cherryl Cunanan
Director of Global Accounts, HelmsBriscoe
Cherryl Cunanan is the Director of Global Accounts at HelmsBriscoe. HelmsBriscoe, the global leader in meetings procurement, streamlines the meeting planning process by managing the time-consuming task of researching, contacting, and evaluating venues for your organization's events. Since 1992, HelmsBriscoe clients have benefited from their global reach, unsurpassed experience, and industry relationships.
Cunanan has over 19 years of experience in the meeting and hospitality industries. She is experienced working with franchise companies, national associations, international-based companies, entertainment groups, and collegiate sports teams. Before joining HelmsBriscoe, Cunanan was an executive meeting manager at Four Points by Sheraton LAX. She graduated from Brigham Young University–Hawaii, with an undergraduate degree in travel management.
45. Nicola Park
Director in Hawaii, Clearway Energy Group
Nicola Park has ten years of experience developing utility-scale solar and battery storage projects in the Hawaii market, overseeing the development of 185 MW of solar and 300 MWh of battery storage projects through to operations, in addition to 4 years of prior utility-scale renewable experience in markets across the country (such as Massachusetts, New York, Carribean, Arizona, and New Mexico) as well as Ontario, Canada.
In her current role, Nicola leads all aspects of project development in Hawaii from land acquisition, contracting, and permitting, through to the start of construction. As Clearway’s key account manager for the Hawaiian Electric Companies, Nicola stays engaged in Clearway’s projects through to Commercial Operations, as well as engaging in State and County policy-making and PUC regulatory proceedings.
Prior to joining Clearway’s predecessor, NRG Energy, in 2016, Nicola worked at SunEdison and Axio Power in the utility-scale renewable energy space in a similar capacity. She holds an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management, UNSW, Australia; an MA in Natural Resource Management from James Cook University, Australia, and a BA in biology from the University of California Santa Barbara.
46. Lori Admiral
Director of Philanthropy, The Nature Conservancy
Lori Admiral is the Director of Philanthropy at The Nature Conservancy, Hawai`i and Palmyra. She leads and inspires a team to fundraise private gifts, pledges, and deferred gifts in support of the chapter and global conservation priorities. The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. Admiral provides overall strategy and leadership for our philanthropy staff. She is responsible for developing and directing all aspects of the fundraising enterprise for Hawaiʻi and Palmyra Atoll, including major donors, loyal donors, corporate and foundation partnerships, estate planning, and board of trustee engagement.
With over 20 years of experience in non-profit fundraising and development, she has a proven record of achieving goals, managing staff, and developing programs that advance the mission and vision of the organization. Admiral was an associate VP for the advancement of the system and wide initiatives at the University Of Hawaii Foundation and, before that, special projects including art after dark at Honolulu Academy of Arts. Earlier in her career, she worked with Lloyds of London as an auditor. Admiral graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa with an MA and an undergraduate degree in the history of Asia and the Pacific.
47. Christina McKinnon
Director of Operations, Option Care Health
Christina McKinnon is the Director of Operations of Option Care Health. She first joined the company in 2011 as director of pharmacy. Option Care Health, Inc. is the largest independent home and alternate site infusion services provider in the United States. With over 6,000 teammates, including 4,500 clinicians, they work compassionately to elevate standards of care for patients with acute and chronic conditions in all 50 states. Through their clinical leadership, expertise, and national scale, Option Care Health is reimagining the infusion care experience for patients, customers, and employees. McKinnon earned a PharmD from the University of Washington.
48. Michelle Tavares
Director of Engineering, 1 Hotels
Michelle Tavares is the Director of Engineering at 1 Hotels. 1 Hotel is a sustainable retreat hotel experience that offers restaurants, meeting rooms, and stores to their guests. Tavares has management experience in the hospitality industry for over 22 years, with her project management, capital planning, and budgeting experience aligning with key goals within the industry.
Tavares first got her start in 2001 as a project manager at Hyatt Regency Maui. From there, she went on to work as an assistant director of engineering at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa for seven years before taking a job as a financial service advisor at 101 Financial, her most recent position before joining 1 Hotels.
49. Marcy Morita
Managing Director of Investor Relations, Hawaiian Airlines
Marcy Morita is the Managing Director of Investor Relations for Hawaiian Airlines. She first joined the company in 2022. Now in its 95th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaii’s biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers nonstop service to Hawai‘i from more US gateway cities (13) than any other airline, along with service from Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, and Tahiti. Hawaiian also provides, on average, more than 160 jet flights daily between the Hawaiian Islands, and over 240 daily flights system-wide.
Prior to joining Hawaiian Airlines, Morita served as an SVP and commercial deposits manager for First Hawaiian Bank. Before that, she served as a director of debt capital markets and investor relations for MUFG. Morita earned an undergraduate degree in mathematics from UC Irvine and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Southern California.
50. Ling-Yu Tam
Director of Accounting, Hawaii Permanente Medical Group
Ling-Yu Tam is the Director of Accounting for Hawaii Permanente Medical Group. She first joined the organization in 2017. Tam has over 20 years of strategic and hands-on finance and accounting experience in Fortune 100 and HMO management companies. She has a track record of ensuring that financial statements are accurate, timely, and complete following GAAP, by overseeing financial and accounting activities, and by developing, managing, and implementing accounting systems and internal controls.
Tam has demonstrated strengths in month-end closing, streamlining financial and accounting processes, and financial statement preparation. Before joining Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, Tam served as a controller for Waterhouse Charitable TR and before that, as a manager of financial accounting at DENSO. She earned an undergraduate degree in economics from National Taiwan University and an MBA in accounting and finance from Vanderbilt University.