Aloha Mai Kakou,

It is a privilege to once again serve as your Section Chair. I am excited to introduce the 2024-2025 Executive Officers: Vice-Chair Joe Tait, Secretary Susan Mukai, Treasurer Mark Ohigashi, Past Chair Lorna Heller, and Director Ken Kawahara. My primary objective for this year is to revitalize our board and committees to enhance the overall member experience. With the collaboration and support of our executive officers, section trustees, and committee chairs, I am confident that we will achieve the goals we've set for the coming year.

We currently have three trustee positions and several committee chair roles available. If you're interested in volunteering, please reach out to the board for more information. Our next board meeting is scheduled for September 18, and further details will be shared soon.

The past two months have been eventful, with ACE24 in June, followed by the Summer Workshop, the joint ASCE/AWWA/HWEA Luncheon, and the Kapili Maui Scholarship fundraiser in July.

Our Section had an exceptional experience at the ACE24 Conference! It was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with clients, colleagues, and friends in person. Once again, our team distributed our annual Mahalo goodie bags to the wonderful supporters of the Pacific Water Conference in the exhibit hall. Special thanks to Conference Trustee Darnelle Chung for organizing the goodie bags and to everyone who helped with the distribution. Our annual ACE reception at the Marriott-Anaheim was a great success, and I’m pleased to congratulate Jessica Agsalda on receiving the 5 Under 35 award this year, as well as Kevin Ihu, our George Warren Fuller Awardee. Mahalo for your dedication and contributions to our industry and communities.

The joint luncheon was well attended, and we appreciate our guest speaker, Maui Assistant Fire Chief of Operations, Hanale Lindo.

A heartfelt MAHALO to everyone who supported the Kāpili Maui Scholarship fundraiser. Your generosity will make a meaningful difference.

I look forward to the year ahead and working alongside our dedicated Section volunteers. Most importantly, I am eager to meet and connect with all of you.

Putting Gratitude into Practice:

Take some time, whether daily or weekly, to connect with your team, be present, and share positive experiences. Practicing connection in this way allows us to focus on the good that has happened, fostering gratitude. By savoring and sharing our experiences, we not only extend these positive feelings but also strengthen our team’s bond.

Ola I Ka Wai!!§

Juanita Reyher-Colon
Hawaii Section Chair