Nicole Lapin

New York Times Bestselling Author

Founder of Money News Network

America’s go-to money expert Nicole Lapin is the only finance expert you don’t need a dictionary to understand. She got her start in the business world at age eighteen, reporting from the floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange for First Business Network. Nicole went on to become the youngest anchor ever at CNN and then to claim the same title at CNBC, where she anchored the only global finance show on the network, Worldwide Exchange, while contributing financial reports to MSNBC and Today. She has served as a business anchor for Bloomberg TV and a special money correspondent for Entertainment Tonight. Nicole has been the host of the nationally-syndicated business reality competition show Hatched and contributes regular financial reports to Good Morning America. In 2023, she launched a business- and finance-focused podcast network, Money News Network.

Among the slate of shows on MNN is “Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin,” a daily show that consistently ranks in the top 5 on Apple’s business charts. The Webby award winning show, which has more than 1000 episodes and a 5-star rating, helps listeners navigate financial news while offering tactical tips and tricks. She also co-hosts a podcast with the editor-in-chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, Jason Feifer, called “Help Wanted” which tackles taboo money topics. Other shows on the network include “Superwomen with Rebecca Minkoff,” “Mo News,” “Trade Like Einstein with Peter Tuchman,” “Leave Your Mark,” and “Social Currency.”

Nicole’s first two books Rich Bitch, an instant NYT Bestseller, and Boss Bitch became hits with female audiences looking to take charge of their money and careers. She has disrupted the traditionally male-dominated, boring finance space by offering actionable advice with her signature sassy and accessible style. Her third book Becoming Super Woman, which teaches women to go from burnout to balance in a simple 12-step plan, is now out along with its companion The Super Woman Journal. Nicole’s fourth book Miss Independent, a Simple 12-Step Plan to Start Investing and Grow Your Own Wealth, has been a multi-week Wall Street Journal bestseller. Her latest book The Money School, based on her popular online masterclass, is out now.

Nicole has been a finance professor at The Jack Welch School of Business at Strayer University. She was named GOBankingRates’ “Money Expert of The Year” for the second year in a row and is the first female winner. Nicole was also the first-ever monthly finance columnist at Hearst Magazines. Nicole has earned the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) and Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) certifications. She graduated summa cum laude and as valedictorian of her class at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, also earning honors in political science.

7:30am

Registration, Networking Expo & Light Bites

---

8:30am

Opening General Session

Welcome Remarks – Emcee Kelly Simek
Living808 Host, Empowered Hawaii, KHON2

La Pietra Performance

Remarks by Jennifer Ablan

Presenting Sponsor Remarks

Keynote Speech

---

9:45am

Break

---

10:00am

Breakout Session I

 

Leading Through Disruption – The Nonprofit Landscape

Hawai‘i’s nonprofits are led by women executive directors who are fostering a culture of excellence within their organizations and are committed to driving meaningful change in our community. Learn how they lead with confidence and how they tackle complex challenges, particularly in the current environment. They will also discuss the collaboration and support they find amongst their peers and will share information on a recently-launched cohort program for women running nonprofits (called “Women Rise Collective”).

Moderator: Susan Utsugi – Group Senior Vice President & Division Manager, Central Pacific Bank

Speakers:

• Leslie Wilkins – President & CEO, Maui Economic Development Board
• Michelle Bartell – President & CEO, Aloha United Way
• Venus Rosete-Medeiros – President & CEO, Hale Kipa

 

Embracing AI: Your Business Ally for Doing More with Less

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant idea it’s a practical tool reshaping the way we work today. From streamlining workflows to unlocking new opportunities, AI can help every role and industry do more with less. In this session, you’ll discover how to harness AI as a trusted ally: handling everyday tasks, boosting productivity, and supporting smarter decision-making. You’ll leave with clear, easy-to-use tools and real-world examples you can apply immediately—so you can focus on the work that matters most.

Moderator: Jackie Smythe – SVP of Integrated Marketing, Finn Partners

Speakers:

• Raquel Guss – Director of Strategy, ALTRES
• Shannon Cleary – Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Mid-Pacific Institute
• Kerrin Mitchell Johnson – Co-Founder & Chief Development Officer, Fluxx

 

Burnout, Boundaries, and Balance: Thriving in a Demanding World

In a world that constantly asks us to do more, it is easy to put yourself last. This session will explore the realities of burnout, the pressures of caretaking while leading, and the ongoing challenge of finding work life sway. Through honest conversation and practical tools, you will learn how to set healthy boundaries, prioritize self care, and create space to thrive both personally and professionally. Participants will leave with strategies to protect their energy, nurture their well being, and sustain success without sacrificing themselves along the way.

Moderator: Olena Heu – Owner, Lilikoi Ladies

Speakers:

• Emily Fukunaga – Vice President of Servco Parts Center, Servco
• Jen Lau – Vice President, Finance Enterprises
• Emi Au – Chief Financial Officer, HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union

 

Retain Talent Through ʻOhana-Friendly Workplaces

Discover how organizations can attract and keep great employees by fostering a workplace culture that truly supports both the individual and their ʻohana. Learn about policies, benefits, and everyday practices that create a sense of belonging, balance, and care helping your team thrive personally and professionally. There is no hana without ʻohana!

Moderator: Kerrie Urosevich – Executive Director, Early Childhood Action Strategy

Speakers:

• Beth Whitehead – Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at American Savings Bank
• Jan Boivin – Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Hawai`i Pacific Health
• Sherry Menor – President and CEO at the Chamber of Commerce Hawai`i
• Amy Miller – President and CEO at the Hawai`i Foodbank

---

11:00am

Break

---

11:15am

Breakout Session II

 

Negotiating Strategies for Wāhine Who Want More – Workshop

Asking for what you’re worth isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. This session offers practical strategies for wāhine who want to level up their negotiation skills and confidently advocate for themselves, whether it’s salary, promotions, resources, or opportunities. With real-world examples and actionable tips, participants will learn how to prepare, frame their value, and approach the conversation with clarity and confidence. This session will highlight salary negotiation, while also offering strategies that support every step of your career journey.

Trainer: Unyong Nakata – Founder & Principal, Nakata Advisory LLC

 

Navigating Career Pivots and Transitions with Confidence

Career journeys are rarely a straight line. Change – whether chosen or unexpected can be both energizing and daunting. This session offers practical strategies and real-world insights to help you approach career pivots with clarity, courage, and confidence. Together, we’ll explore how to align your next steps with your core values, cultivate resilience in times of uncertainty, and move forward with purpose. You’ll leave with actionable tools and inspiration to embrace change and step into new opportunities with confidence.

Moderator: Mea Aloha Spady – Executive Director, The Kūpa’a Network

Speakers:

• Molly Schmidt, CEO Pacific Island Region – American Red Cross
• Michele Saito, Former Insurance CEO and Community Leader
• Trista Speer – Deputy Director, Hawai‘i Department of Human Services

 

Stand Out with Presence: From Elevator Pitch to Public Speaking

How you show up in the world matters. From the first impression of an elevator pitch to the confidence of public speaking and the authenticity of networking, your public persona shapes opportunities and relationships. This session will help you strengthen your presence with practical strategies for refining your message, connecting with others, and speaking with clarity and confidence. Participants will leave with tools to present themselves in any setting with purpose, poise, and impact.

Moderator: Nicole Velasco – Business Development Lead, NORESCO

Speakers:

• Donalyn Dela Cruz – Owner, DDC Consulting
• Lauren Teruya – Content Specialist, Hawaii News Now
• Michelle Hee – Vice President of Strategic Communications, Hawaii Community Foundation
• Jennifer Taylor – Founder & Managing Principal, Ambiculture

 

Coaching and Mentoring: Become a Leader Others Want to Follow

Great leadership is not about authority, it is about influence and impact. Whether or not you hold a formal title or lead a team, the skills of coaching and mentoring can help you bring out the best in others and strengthen your own presence. This session will explore how to inspire trust, foster growth, and build meaningful connections in any setting. We will also discuss how to identify and seek out mentors and coaches who can guide your own journey, offering support, perspective, and accountability. Through real examples and practical techniques, you will learn how to guide with clarity and empathy while also building your own network of support. Participants will leave with strategies to grow as leaders in their own right by both lifting others and learning from those who lift them.

Moderator: Tricia Fetui – Senior Vice President, Business Development & Events & Executive Director of the YP Program

Speakers:

• Ku’ulani Keohokalole – CEO, People Strategies Hawai’i
• Elisia Flores – CEO, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
• Sharilyn Tanaka – SVP of Personal Lines/Independent Agents, Atlas Insurance Agency
• Katie Chang- Executive Director, Center for Tomorrow’s Leaders

---

12:30am

Lunch & Networking

---

1:30pm

Breakout Session III

 

Claiming Your Seat at the Table, or Building a New One

This session invites wāhine to reflect on how they claim their place in leadership spaces, whether by stepping confidently into an existing table or envisioning and creating a new one rooted in their values and vision. Together, we will explore the courage it takes to lead, the importance of lifting our voices, and the strength of community in shaping pathways forward. Participants will leave with practical tools and inspiration to step into decision-making spaces with confidence and to imagine new tables that reflect inclusivity, aloha, and intention.

Moderator: Justina Acevedo-Cross – Senior Director of Community Strategy, Hawaii Community Foundation

Speakers:

• Dr. Kanoe Nāone – President & CEO, Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i
• Sanoe Marfil – CEO, INPEACE
• Jessica Munoz – Founder, Ho’ola Na Pua
• Sharlee Tokunaga – Executive Business Developer, Sperber Companies

 

Data 101: Using Insights to Drive Smarter Business Decisions – Workshop

Data doesn’t have to be intimidating. This session will demystify the basics and show how turning information into insights can help you make better, smarter decisions in your business. From understanding what data to pay attention to, to using simple tools that reveal patterns and opportunities, you’ll learn how to put data to work in practical and accessible ways. Participants will leave with a clear framework and starter tools to make data a trusted guide in strategy, growth, and everyday decision making.

Trainers:

• Dr. Jennifer Creech – VP for Enrollment Management & Associate Provost for Student Success, Chaminade University
• Lisa Trumbull – Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management & Community Partnerships

 

How to Be a Leader Without Being Labeled Aggressive

For many women, stepping into leadership comes with the double standard of being seen as “too aggressive” when showing confidence or authority. This session will explore how to lead with strength while maintaining authenticity, balance, and influence. Through candid discussion and practical strategies, you will learn how to communicate with clarity, assert yourself effectively, and build respect without compromising who you are. Participants will leave with tools to lead powerfully and confidently while reshaping the narrative around what leadership looks like.

Moderator: Carol Lin – Author & Journalist

Speakers:

• Sarah Guay – President & CEO, Hawaii Employers Council
• Alex Wroe – SVP & Chief Operating Officer – Queen’s Medical Center Manamana
• Anna Neubauer – President & CEO, Hawaiian Humane Society
• Penni Hall – Interim Director & CEO, Honolulu Museum of Art

 

Women Who Save Lives

In this session, we will hear from a panel of woman in lifesaving careers, spanning from the medical field and firefighting to ocean safety. Their jobs are difficult, stressful and sometimes dangerous – but Hawai‘i depends on these women to step up to when lives are on the line. Join us to learn about the valuable lessons they’ve learned, the unique challenges they face, and how they manage the immense stress that comes with working under such high stakes.

Moderator: Ryann Coules – Reporter, Hawaii Business Magazine

Speakers:

• Melanie Keolanui – Battalion Chief of Operations, Hawai‘i County Fire Department
• Kris R. Kawamoto, MD – Interventional Cardiologist, The Queen’s Health Systems
• Dr. Lois Chiu – Chief of Neonatology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Group
• Kapua Chang – Lifeguard and Rescue Operator, City and County of Honolulu

---

2:30pm

Break

---

2:45pm

Closing General Session

Leadership: The Raw, Real Lessons You Won’t Find in a Book

Closing out the day with honesty and grit, this session pulls back the curtain on what leadership really looks like for women. It reveals the unfiltered lessons rarely shared on panels or in books. From navigating bias and burnout to setting boundaries, building influence, and thriving through life’s pivots, our speakers will share the truths they have learned the hard way so you do not have to. Expect real talk, hard won wisdom, and empowering strategies to lead authentically, boldly, and on your own terms.

Moderator: Jennifer Ablan – Editor, Hawaii Business Magazine

Speakers:

• Ann Teranishi, President & CEO – American Savings Bank
• President Wendy Hensel, President – University of Hawai’i

---

4:00pm

Pau

Anna Neubauer

President and CEO

Hawaiian Humane Society

Anna Neubauer is President and CEO of the Hawaiian Humane Society, leading 150 staff and 1,000 volunteers to care for Oʻahu’s animals. Since arriving in 2019, she has introduced the People and Animals in Community Together framework and implemented policy and operational reforms that reduced euthanasia rates by 70 percent. Previously vice president of operations at Denver’s Dumb Friends League, she co-founded Fort Collins Cat Rescue, teaches Shelter Leadership at Colorado State University, and holds an MPA in Nonprofit Management. 

Donalyn Dela Cruz

Owner

DDC Consulting

Donalyn Dela Cruz is the owner of DDC Consulting, specializing in strategic communications, public affairs, and community engagement. A former TV reporter, Donalyn was a communications lead and spokesperson for Governor Abercrombie and a U.S. Senator Akaka. She blends newsroom instincts with government know-how to prepare leaders for podiums, crises, and community dialogue. She advises public- and private-sector clients on narrative development, media relations and engagement strategies that build trust, alignment, and clarity. 

Jennifer Creech

VP for Enrollment Management & Associate Provost for Student Success

Chaminade University

Jennifer is a higher education leader who leverages data to drive measurable impact for students and the community. She has led enterprise cloud migrations, predictive analytics initiatives, and student success strategies that expand access, strengthen retention and increase graduation. Jennifer is committed to making data approachable and actionable, empowering teams to turn information into insights that guide smarter decisions, sustainable growth and equitable opportunities for the institution and the partners they serve. 

Dr. Kanoe Nāone

President & CEO

Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i

Dr. Kanoe Nāone is a respected nonprofit leader with over two decades of CEO experience. Since January 2024, she has served as CEO of Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i, focusing on empowering girls, fostering leadership, and expanding reach across the Islands. She previously led the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley and INPEACE, and founded Lāʻau Inc. Dr. Nāone holds a Ph.D. from UH Mānoa, is originally from Kaua‘i, and is a proud mother of four and avid CrossFitter. 

Emi Kanai Au

Chief Financial Officer

HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union

Emi Kanai Au is Chief Financial Officer at HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union with more than 20 years in financial services. She serves on the boards of the Hawaiian Humane Society, Patsy T. Mink Center for Business and Leadership, and U.S.-Japan Council. A Pacific Century Fellow and alum of the Patsy T. Mink Leadership Alliance, she has been recognized by Pacific Business News and Hawaii Business Magazine. She enjoys time with her family, cats, and foster kittens.

Emily Fukunaga

Vice President

Servco Parts Center

Emily Fukunaga is Vice President of Servco Parts Center and a board member of Servco Pacific Inc. and Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. She has 15 years of global experience in strategy, operations, and supply chain, with previous roles at Strategy&, adidas, and Duty Free Shoppers. Passionate about intergenerational leadership and legacy stewardship, Emily serves on the Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation’s selection committee and her family council. She holds a BA from Colorado College and an MBA from Columbia Business School.

Jennifer Ablan

Editor-in-Chief

Hawaii Business Magazine

Jennifer Ablan is Editor-in-Chief of Hawaii Business Magazine. She returned home to O‘ahu after nearly three decades in New York City covering finance and business as a reporter and editor. She previously led Pensions & Investments as Editor-in-Chief, held senior roles at the Financial Times and Reuters, and began her career at Barron’s and Dow Jones. A UH Mānoa graduate, Ablan has interviewed many of the world’s top investors and was recognized as a Women’s Bond Club Rising Star.

Jen Lau

Executive Vice President

Finance Enterprises

Jen Lau is Executive Vice President of Finance Enterprises, parent of Finance Factors, Finance Insurance, Finance Realty, and Waipono Investment Corporation. She leads strategic planning, culture, and community engagement, and spearheaded the transformation of Finance Insurance. Jen also serves on the boards of the Girl Scouts of Hawaii and the East-West Center Foundation. Previously, she held roles at StubHub, eBay, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. She earned her MBA from MIT Sloan and her BA from Wellesley.

Kris R. Kawamoto, MD

Interventional Cardiologist

The Queen’s Health Systems

Kris R. Kawamoto, MD, is an interventional cardiologist with The Queen’s Health Systems. A graduate of the University of Hawai‘i John A. Burns School of Medicine, she was inspired to pursue cardiology during an elective rotation at The Queen’s Medical Center. After advanced training on the mainland, she returned home to care for Hawai‘i’s community and mentor future physicians. Outside of work, she enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with her two dogs.

Lauren Teruya

Content Specialist

Hawaii News Now

Lauren Teruya is a media executive at Hawaii News Now, specializing in digital strategy and storytelling for businesses and community organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and theatre, and a master’s degree in specialized journalism from the University of Southern California. An experienced reporter, host, content strategist, and former Miss Hawaii, Lauren is passionate about empowering others with practical tools to communicate confidently and show up with impact.

Michele Saito

Former Insurance CEO and Community Leader

With over 35 years in the insurance industry, Michele has a proven track record of helping teams navigate challenges, including her time as President/CEO at Farmers Insurance Hawaii and DTRIC Insurance Company. Dedicated to her community, she was on numerous boards, including the Hawaii Business Roundtable. As chair, she worked with its members to better position the organization as an effective voice of business by engaging and collaborating with key stakeholders.

Michelle Bartell

President & CEO

Aloha United Way

Michelle Bartell is President & CEO of Aloha United Way, leading programs such as the 211 Statewide Helpline, ALICE initiative, and Safety Net Fund. She previously spent more than a decade at American Savings Bank, where she launched the Affordable Housing Hui and KeikiCo Contest. Recognized by Pacific Business News as a 2022 Woman Who Means Business, Bartell is a UCLA graduate, active board member, and longtime volunteer committed to strengthening Hawai‘i communities.

Molly Schmidt

CEO

American Red Cross, Pacific Islands Region

Molly Schmidt is CEO of the American Red Cross, Pacific Islands Region, overseeing operations across Hawaiʻi, Guam, the Northern Marianas, and American Samoa. She brings more than 20 years of leadership experience with international NGOs and nonprofits, including the Girl Scouts and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Southeast Asia. A graduate of Emory University, Schmidt is active in Rotary, Women’s Fund Hawaiʻi, and leadership networks while residing in Kailua with her family.

Olena Heu

Founder

Heu Communications

Olena Heu is an award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and marketing professional based in Hawai‘i. A former television news anchor, she is the founder of a successful media and communications company specializing in storytelling, digital strategy, and brand identity. With a Master’s degree in Speech Communication and a certificate in Digital Marketing Strategy from Harvard Business School Online, Olena blends creativity with expertise. She is passionate about connecting communities, uplifting local businesses, and sharing Hawai‘i’s unique stories.

Sarah Guay

President & CEO

Hawaii Employers Council

Sarah Guay is President & CEO of Hawaii Employers Council, where she works with the board, members, and staff to support Hawai‘i’s employers. She has over 20 years of experience in HR, change management, and workplace culture, previously serving as VP of Human Resources at HEMIC and in leadership roles at American Savings Bank. Guay serves on boards including Oahu Economic Development Board and Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawai‘i. She lives in Kailua with her husband and three children.

Sharilyn Tanaka

Senior Vice President of Personal Lines and Independent Agents

Atlas Insurance Agency

Sharilyn Tanaka is Senior Vice President of Personal Lines and Independent Agents at Atlas Insurance Agency with over 17 years of experience on the Atlas team. Sharilyn holds the Associate in Insurance (AIS) and the Chartered Property & Casualty (CPCU) designations. She serves as a board member for YWCA of Oahu, Hawaii Homeownership Center, Board President of Hawaii Independent Insurance Agents Association, and was recently appointed to the Wildfire subcommittee for the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

Susan Utsugi

Group Senior Vice President & Division Manager of Business Banking

Central Pacific Bank

Susan Utsugi is Group Senior Vice President & Division Manager of Business Banking at Central Pacific Bank, where she has worked for 25 years and brings more than 35 years of banking experience. She serves on several nonprofit boards and helped found CPB’s WE by Rising Tide program, the Women Entrepreneurs Conference, and Women Rise Collective. In 2022, Utsugi was named the SBA Women in Business Champion for Hawai‘i.

Unyong Nakata

Founder & Principal

Nakata Advisory

Unyong Nakata is the Founder and Principal of Nakata Advisory, a strategic consultancy known for turning ideas into action and complexity into results.  With over 20 years of experience across the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, she is recognized for her ability to build momentum, forge meaningful partnerships, and lead with clarity and heart.  Unyong specializes in strategic planning, board facilitation, business development, integrated communications, and impact storytelling.  A first-generation college graduate and award-winning leader, she currently serves on the boards of several community organizations and is a champion for values-aligned, results-driven leadership in Hawaii.

Venus Kauʻiokawēkiu Rosete-Medeiros

President & CEO

Hale Kipa

Venus Kauʻiokawēkiu Rosete-Medeiros is the first female President & CEO of Hale Kipa, leading with a focus on juvenile justice reform, child welfare transformation, and community-based mental health through Hawaiian values and trauma-informed care. Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, she co-chaired the Mālama ʻOhana Working Group and champions initiatives that center cultural identity, equity, and preventative care. Widely known as the “Passion Sherpa,” Rosete-Medeiros is a powerful advocate for Hawaiʻi’s most vulnerable youth and families.

Alex Wroe

SVP & Chief Operating Officer

The Queen’s Medical Center – Manamana

Alex Wroe is COO of The Queen’s Medical Center – Manamana and Senior Vice President at The Queen’s Health Systems. A registered nurse, she is passionate about improving healthcare delivery and expanding access to care. She has led key initiatives such as launching the Queen’s Aukahi Center to improve patient flow and building nationally recognized care coordination programs. Originally from Canada, Alex now lives in Hawai‘i Kai with her husband and their three young children, enjoying soccer games, skateparks, and ocean adventures.

Amy Miller

President and CEO

Hawai‘i Foodbank

Amy Miller is President and CEO of Hawai‘i Foodbank, the state’s largest hunger relief organization. The Foodbank serves one in six residents through 200 partner agencies, 59 school pantries, and island affiliates. Under Amy’s leadership, the organization provides millions of meals each year and addresses root causes of hunger by advancing food equity, access, and strong community partnerships. She previously held leadership roles at Bishop Museum and The Dolphin Institute. A Harvard graduate and Omidyar Fellow, Amy is dedicated to strengthening Hawai‘i’s food system and ensuring no one goes hungry.

Ann Teranishi

President and CEO

American Savings Bank

Ann Teranishi is President and CEO of American Savings Bank and a member of its board of directors. Since joining ASB, she has held key leadership roles, including EVP of Operations, where she guided the bank’s digital transformation. She also developed an enterprise compliance program and led retail credit and customer experience teams. Ann serves on the boards of Hawai‘i Executive Collaborative, U.S.-Japan Council, and Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, is a trustee of Punahou School, and sits on the Hawai‘i Business Roundtable and Hawai‘i Bankers Association Executive Committee.

Beth Whitehead

Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

American Savings Bank

Beth Whitehead is Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at American Savings Bank, where she leads the bank’s award-winning teammate experience and workplace culture. She oversees Human Resources, Learning & Development, Communications, Community Advancement, Social Impact & Sustainability, Corporate Real Estate, Security, Facilities, Legal, and Bank Secrecy Act compliance. She also leads Operations, driving efficiency and integrated solutions. An Omidyar Fellow, Beth serves on the boards of Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i, Child & Family Service, and Hawai‘i Theatre Center, and advises the Center for Banking and Finance at the University of North Carolina School of Law.

Elisia Flores

CEO

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

Elisia Flores is the CEO of L&L Franchise, Inc. which has over 230 L&L Hawaiian Barbecue restaurants across the country and in Japan. She is responsible for setting the strategic vision of the company and driving new growth initiatives. She has been instrumental in developing key partnerships, strengthening the brand across markets and implementing national revenue generating programs for the franchises.   

Jackie Smythe

Senior Vice President, Integrated Marketing

Anthology FINN Partners 

Jackie has over 20 years of experience helping brands in hospitality, retail, tech, and real estate connect with their audiences through integrated marketing and social media. She’s led campaigns for local and global names like Parker Ranch, Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i, and Ko Olina Resorts. With a background as both an agency owner and team leader, Jackie brings a collaborative, hands-on approach, using smart tools and creative strategies to move ideas — and people — into action. 

Jan Boivin

 Senior Vice President of Human Resources

Hawai‘i Pacific Health

Jan Boivin is Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Effectiveness at Hawai‘i Pacific Health, leading HR, clinical education, and workforce development for 8,000 employees across four medical centers and 70+ clinics. Formerly Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Board Secretary at Hawai‘i Pacific University, Jan holds a JD from Georgetown and a BA from Willamette. She serves on multiple boards, including the Hawai‘i State Bar Foundation and YMCA of Honolulu, and volunteers as a DoD ombudsman. 

Jessica R. Muñoz

Founder

Ho‘ōla Nā Pua

Jessica R. Muñoz is a nurse practitioner, social innovator, and founder of Ho‘ōla Nā Pua, globally shining the light on the sexual exploitation of children and bringing healing pathways for youth. With 19+ years in trauma care, she has built new “tables” of justice—raising millions, opening Hawai‘i’s first residential campus for trafficked youth, and shaping national models of healing. A global trainer and advocate, Jessica embodies courage, vision, and aloha, empowering communities to claim space, create change, and uplift the most vulnerable 

Justina Acevedo-Cross

Senior Director

Hawaiʻi Community Foundation

Justina Acevedo-Cross is Senior Director at the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, leading collaboration, policy, impact, and grantmaking efforts. With 20+ years in nonprofits and philanthropy, she directed the Promising Minds Initiative to expand early childhood mental health support in Hawai‘i. She has served on boards and commissions, including Hawai‘i’s Early Learning Board, and holds degrees from UC Berkeley and Scripps College. 

Katie Chang

Executive Director

Center for Tomorrow’s Leaders

Katie Chang is Executive Director of the Center for Tomorrow’s Leaders (CTL). Since 2013, she has expanded CTL beyond its Fellows program to include Ambassadors, which delivers leadership development directly to Hawai‘i’s high schools, along with other statewide initiatives. A certified presenter of the Student Leadership Challenge, Katie has worked in public service as an advisor for the US/UK Fulbright Commission in London and as an intern in the Hawai‘i State Legislature and Governor’s Office. She holds a BA from Pepperdine University and an MPA from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. Katie serves on several community boards.

Kelly Simek

Host

Living808 Host, Empowered Hawaii, KHON2

Kelly Simek is the host of KHON2’s lifestyle show Living808 and sustainability program Empowered Hawaii, where she highlights Hawai‘i’s people, culture, and businesses. Known for supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs, Kelly uses television and social media to share their stories and connect them with the community. A familiar face for over a decade, she also works as a realtor with Compass, helping families find homes. Kelly earned her Broadcast Meteorology degree from the University of Hawai‘i. 

Kerrie Urosevich

Executive Director

Early Childhood Action Strategy

Kerrie Urosevich, PhD, is the Executive Director of Early Childhood Action Strategy, a statewide initiative strengthening systems of care for Hawai‘i’s youngest keiki and their families. She has served under two Hawai‘i governors in early learning policy and spent 15 years in systems building and conflict resolution. A Smallify Coach and Affiliate Faculty at UH Mānoa’s Matsunaga Institute for Peace, Kerrie co-founded Ceeds of Peace and serves on boards advancing early development, education, and women’s empowerment.

Kuʻulani Keohokalole

CEO

People Strategies Hawaiʻi

Kuʻulani Keohokalole is CEO of People Strategies Hawaiʻi, growing more people-oriented leaders. She has held key roles at Liliʻuokalani Trust, Kamehameha Schools, and Bank of Hawaiʻi. In 2023, she was recognized as Hawaiʻi Business Magazine’s 20 for the Next 20. An Omidyar Fellow, she serves on the boards of Parents and Children Together and The Catalight Foundation and as a National Chapter Advisor for the Association for Talent Development. Her proudest accomplishment is being mom to three wonderful keiki.

Leslie Wilkins

President and CEO

Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB)

Leslie was elected to MEDB’s top post in 2017. The organization’s mission is to lead and inspire innovation in business, education, and our community. Hired in 1999 to launch its Women in Technology Project, today known as STEMworks™, the program serves an annual statewide constituency of more than 30,000 students, teachers, and industry members, striving to build a home grown, skilled pipeline of critical thinkers and problem solvers, ranging from rom Keiki to Careers.  

Lisa Trumbull

Assistant VP for Enrollment Management & Community Partnerships

Chaminade University

Lisa is a higher education leader who leverages data to transform enrollment and student success. She manages Chaminade University’s SaaS migration, integrating systems to automate processes, improve data accuracy, and scale impact. Lisa builds strategic partnerships with Hawai‘i’s businesses and nonprofits, creating workforce pathways that connect learning to career advancement. With a focus on predictive analytics and evidence-based strategy, she drives innovation at the intersection of technology, enrollment, and workforce development to expand access and outcomes.

Mea Aloha Spady

Executive Director

The Kūpaʻa Network

Mea Aloha Spady is Executive Director of The Kūpaʻa Network, a collection of initiatives focused on addressing Hawai‘i’s most pressing issues through storytelling, innovation, and collaboration. Kūpa‘a’s flagship initiative, Overstory, is Hawai‘i’s first solutions journalism platform, examining not just events or conflicts but the deeper causes and potential ways forward. With two decades of nonprofit and community well-being experience, Mea works to create spaces for conversation and shared momentum. Born, raised, and educated in Hawai‘i, she is guided by a deep love for people and place, centering connection and hope in her leadership.

Michelle Hee

Vice President of Strategic Communications

Hawai‘i Community Foundation

Michelle Hee is Vice President of Strategic Communications at the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, where she leverages her experience building brands and inspiring audiences. Born and raised in Hawai‘i, she is passionate about storytelling that honors the islands’ unique spirit and strengthens community. She is a member of the 18th Cohort of the Pacific Century Fellows and holds degrees from Johns Hopkins University and Wheaton College.

Nicole Velasco

Energy and Sustainability Advisor; Nonprofit Consultant; Executive Coach

Nicole Velasco is an energy and sustainability advisor, nonprofit consultant, and executive coach helping leaders align vision with impact. Most importantly, she is a mother to two boys, raising them as lifelong feminists rooted in equity, aloha, and justice. 

Penni Hall

Interim Director and CEO

Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu Museum of Art board appointed Chief Operating Officer Penni Hall as interim director and CEO last May. A well-rounded leader and strategist, Hall’s extensive experience overseeing the Museum’s key operations positions her well to lead HoMA during a time of transition. Before joining HoMA in 2022, Hall served as head of strategic projects and governance for M+ museum in Hong Kong, successfully aligning people, projects and the conceptual vision for the museum’s grand opening in 2021. 

Wendy F. Hensel

President

University of Hawaiʻi

Wendy F. Hensel became president of the University of Hawaiʻi on January 1, 2025. A champion of inclusivity and innovation, she previously served as provost at the City University of New York, where she improved student success and expanded online programs, and as provost and law school dean at Georgia State University. A respected legal scholar, she earned a bachelor’s in American public affairs from Michigan State University and a law degree from Harvard.

Raquel Guss

Director of Strategy

ALTRES

Raquel Guss, Director of Strategy, represents the third generation of leadership at ALTRES. After growing up in her family’s company, she pursued her education on the East Coast and built a career with one of the world’s largest global supply chain companies, supporting clients such as Starbucks, Wal-Mart, and Target. In 2021, Raquel returned to Hawai‘i to join ALTRES, where she oversees the simplicityHR sales team along with strategic initiatives and continuous improvement projects. Her work focuses on leveraging technology, collaboration, and operational excellence to drive innovation and strengthen client partnerships.

Sanoe Marfil

Chief Executive Officer

INPEACE

Sanoe Marfil first joined INPEACE as a participating parent before becoming part of the ‘ohana in 2006 and rising to her current role as Chief Executive Officer. She holds a BA in Hawaiian Pacific Studies from UH West O‘ahu and an M.Ed. with a focus on leadership from Fielding Graduate University. Sanoe is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education with a focus on mo‘okū‘auhau and mo‘olelo.  

Shannon Cleary

Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Mid-Pacific Institute

Shannon Cleary is Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Mid-Pacific Institute. With more than 20 years of experience, she has built schools, developed programs, and championed innovation in education. Shannon leads advancement efforts that strengthen innovation in learning and ensure the school’s financial sustainability. She oversees the design and execution of comprehensive advancement programs and manages teams in development, alumni relations, and communications.

Sharlee Tokunaga

Executive Business Developer

Sperber Companies

Sharlee Tokunaga serves as the Executive Business Developer for Sperber Companies, where she leads business development initiatives across four companies on O‘ahu, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island. Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Sharlee brings a deep local understanding combined with a national perspective shaped by years of senior leadership experience on the mainland. Her career spans key markets across the United States, where she has built a strong reputation for leading teams, cultivating client relationships, and driving strategic growth.

Sherry Menor

President and CEO

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Sherry Menor is President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii—the youngest and first female and Asian American to hold the role in its 175-year history. A graduate of UCLA, UH Law, and Shidler MBA, she’s held roles across sectors in Tokyo, New York, and D.C. She serves on national and local boards, including ACCE and Hawaiian Humane Society, and is a recognized leader, Omidyar Fellow, and Junior Achievement Hall of Fame inductee. 

Ryann Coules

Reporter & Editor

Hawaii Business Magazine

As a reporter for Hawaii Business Magazine, Ryann covers a diverse array of local industries, including agriculture, technology, healthcare, and the film and TV sector. Most recently, she profiled 8 women in lifesaving careers for the magazine’s October issue and is ecstatic to be moderating this session on the same topic. 

Tricia Fetui

Senior Vice President of Events & Business Development

Chamber of Commerce Hawaii

Tricia Fetui is the Senior Vice President of Events & Business Development and Executive Director of the Young Professionals Program at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. She oversees Events & Programs, Membership, and Communications, and has held roles with organizations including The Queen’s Health Systems, March of Dimes Hawaii, and Central Pacific Bank. Active in the community, she serves on the boards of the Domestic Violence Action Center and ACCE Events Advisory Council. Fetui earned her BS in Business Administration from Hope International University and lives in ʻEwa Beach with her husband and two children.

Lois Chiu, MD

Chief of Neonatology

Kaiser Permanente Medical Group

Dr. Chiu earned her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University, completed her pediatrics residency at The Mount Sinai Hospital, and a neonatology fellowship at NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. Board certified in neonatal-perinatal medicine and pediatrics, she joined Kaiser Permanente Medical Group in 2009 and has served as Chief of Neonatology since 2018. She is based at Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center.

Jennifer Taylor

Managing Principal

Ambiculture Advisors

Jennifer Taylor is a 30-year+ veteran of commercial real estate investment, development and management. She is managing principal for a private equity commercial real estate firm, Ambiculture Advisors, that invests and develops commercial real estate in markets with strong Asian demographics. Jennifer is also the co-founder of Baryo Ent, a social impact agency redefining how brands authentically engage with multicultural communities. Jennifer sits on several boards that align with her mission to advance leadership, representation, and cultural pride across industries and communities. 

Trista Speer

Deputy Director

Hawai‘i Department of Human Services

Trista Speer is a Deputy Director for the Hawai‘i Department of Human Services. Speer has more than a decade of experience in public policy and legal expertise in both the public and private sector in areas including criminal justice, child welfare, complex civil litigation, emergency management, and systems design—bringing a trauma-informed and pragmatic approach to her work. She also serves as a lecturer at the University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law.   

Kerrin Mitchell

Co-Founder & Chief Development Officer

Fluxx

Kerrin Mitchell is an entrepreneur and philanthropic leader who co-founded Fluxx in 2010 to modernize giving through a platform that connects funders, nonprofits, and government. As Chief Development Officer, she leads strategic growth and innovation. Under her leadership, Fluxx helped facilitate more than $25 billion in grants last year. A Duke University graduate with a B.S. in Economics, Kerrin has dedicated her career to strengthening the social sector.

Carol Lin

Author & Journalist

Carol Lin is the author of When News Breaks: A Memoir of Love and War (pre-order, Third Rail Press, Dec 2025) which explores her complicated love story about career and marriage. The longtime ABC News and CNN journalist is best known as the first network journalist to report the 9/11 attacks.  Her reporting spanned Afghanistan, the Middle East, Kosovo, the 2002 Winter Olympics,m. Carol earned a Peabody, National Emmy, an Alfred I. duPont Award and honors for investigative journalism. www.CarolLinNow.com  

Kapua Chang

Lifeguard and Rescue Operator

City and County of Honolulu – Ocean Safety Division

Kapua Chang serves as a Lifeguard and Rescue Operator with the City and County of Honolulu’s Ocean Safety Division. With over four years of service, she has worked across four of Oʻahu’s five districts, displaying true dedication to every shoreline she protects. Kapua holds certification as an Emergency Medical Technician and made history as the first female Rescue Operator on Oʻahu — a milestone that reflects both her commitment to excellence and her role as a trailblazer in the field of Ocean Safety. Her work embodies resilience, leadership, and a deep sense of kuleana to her community.

Melanie Keolanui

Battalion Chief of Operations

Hawai’i Fire Department

Melanie Keolanui is the first ever Battalion Chief of Operations for the Hawai’i Fire Department. She commands the East Hawai’i Battalion which consists of 11 fire stations located on over 2,000 square miles of the Big Island and over 60 personnel. She has over 20 years of experience in HFD where she has served as a firefighter, paramedic, Fire Equipment Operator, and Fire Captain. 

Regular Ticket

$225

For group rate inquiries, please email ashleym@hawaiibusiness.com.