Former U.S. representative Kai Kahele has been elected as the new chair of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees, succeeding trustee Carmen “Hulu” Lindsey. In his first elected office since vacating his seat as Hawaii District 2 representative, Kahele expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by his fellow trustees. The board also elected trustee Keoni Souza as the new board vice-chair. Kahele, who was elected to represent Hawaii island in the November General Election, comes from a background as a combat veteran, commercial pilot for Hawaiian Airlines, and the son of the late state senator Gil Kahele. Stacy Kealohalani Ferreira, OHA’s chief executive officer, expressed enthusiasm for the new leadership, looking forward to addressing challenges within Hawaiian communities and exploring opportunities to better serve beneficiaries. The oath of office was administered by Hawaii Supreme Court associate justice Todd Eddins to Kahele and other trustees including Kelii Akina, Luana Alapa, and Dan Ahuna. Kahele’s leadership is expected to bring transparency and collaboration with the board, staff, and the Native Hawaiian community to improve the lives of beneficiaries with passion and energy. This transition marks an exciting time for the agency as they work towards innovative and transformational opportunities under their new leadership.
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