Congratulations, Connie!

Historic Hawai‘i Foundation was pleased to recognize Connie Lau as the 2022 Kama‘āina of the Year™ with over 270 guests in attendance on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at The Royal Hawaiian Resort.  The evening was blessed with cooling trade winds and a shining full moon.

Mahalo to everyone who joined us to celebrate Connie’s visionary leadership and her commitment to care for our island home.  Special thanks to our friends who helped us share Connie’s story: Rena Hwang, AJ Halagao, Maleko McDonnell, Aaron Sala, Maenette Benham, Jen and Greg Lau, ‘Āpuakea, Streetlight Cadence, Robin Lung, Jason Antonio, and HHF’s Board of Trustees. Mahalo for your support and aloha.

Known for her forward-thinking leadership as the former president and CEO of Hawaiian Electric Industries (HEI), Connie was recognized for spearheading key initiatives that transformed the companies and led the State of Hawaii’s commitment to renewable energy development.  Connie’s strong sense of connection to the land and people of Hawai‘i has defined her leadership and 37-year career at Hawaiian Electric Industries and its subsidiaries.

Community leaders Jeff Watanabe, Ann Teranishi, Tim Johns, Shelly Kimura and Mike Latham paid tribute to Connie Lau in a special video created for the Kama‘āina of the Year™ benefit.

We welcome everyone to watch the video available on HHF’s YouTube channel by clicking on the image below or via this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uN3Q9LEyjg.

Please also check out beautiful event photos by Sarah Jual Photography.

Mahalo nui and a hui hou!
Historic Hawai‘i Foundation

The 2022 Kama‘āina of the Year™ Video Tribute

Photo Highlights from the 2022 Kama‘āina of the Year™ Event

Video from the 2022 Kama‘āina of the Year™ Event
1. Award Presentation

Video 2. Remarks by Jennifer and Gregory Lau

“The annual Kama‘āina of the Year™ award offers Historic Hawai‘i Foundation the privilege of identifying and celebrating individuals who exemplify community service and cherish our collective heritage,” said Kiersten Faulkner, executive director of Historic Hawai‘i Foundation.  “We are honored this year to recognize Connie Lau whose long and distinguished career demonstrates the value of communities working together and a deep appreciation for the cultural and built environments of Hawai‘i.”

Now in its 33^rd year, the Kama‘āina of the Year event furthers Historic Hawai‘i Foundation’s mission to preserve the historic buildings, cultural sites and communities significant to the heritage of the Hawaiian Islands.  Mahalo to all of our table sponsors, guests, donors, and trustees for their generosity and support.

Kama‘āina of the Year™ Honorees