Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 40, Number 12, 1 December 2023 — Ferreira Selected as OHA's New CEO [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Ferreira Selected as OHA's New CEO

By Ed Kalama Ofīice of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) trustees have selected Stacy Kealohalani Ferreira as the organization's new Ka Pouhana/Chief Executive Officer. Ferreira follows Dr. Sylvia Hussey, who left the agency in July. Since 2019, Ferreira has served as budget chief of the Hawai'i State Senate, where she helped to shape and formulate state budgets. She is a former executive strategy consultant and division director of Extension Educational Services for Kamehameha Schools, where she also served as the trust coordinator for the Charles Reed Bishop Trust.

Ferreira carries a master's n education and a bach:lor's in communications ?rom the University of Ha,vai'i at Mānoa. She is kanaaina with familial ties :o Hawai'i Island, Moloka'i, md O'ahu. Many of her hpūnui 'ohana are from Lalaina, Maui. "We are certain that Sta:y's strong skill sets, proven ibilities and dedication to )ur lāhui will serve our or;anization and beneficiares ,vell as we move forward vith our mission of betterng the lives of Native Hawaiians," said OHA Board Chair Carmen "Hulu" Lindsey. "I'd also like to mahalo

and aloha Colin Kippen for his leadership in serving as our interim CEO during this time of transition." Ferreira began her new post on Nov. 1, 2023. Among her priorities are developing strategic partnerships and collaborations to achieve the goals of OHA's Mana i Mauli Ola strategic plan, strengthening the organization's current community programs and services, and working to increase the agency's trust assets and portfolio performance. "I am honored and invigorated to lead our charge toward a brighter future for the lāhui," Ferreira said. "With an unyielding commitment, we're embarking on a transformative journey to uplift and amplify the strength and resilience of our Native Hawaiian communities." With more than 20 years of experience working in Hawai'i, Ferreira has amassed an extensive professional network and important connections within the Native Hawaiian community. "The OfRce of Hawaiian Affairs stands at the forefront of change," Ferreira said. "With unwavering determination and precision, we will be resolute in our mission to ensure the eonditions necessary for the prosperity and wellness of all Hawaiians and our beloved pae aina." ■

0HA's new Kd Pouhana/ Chief Executive A Officer Stūcy Kealohalani Ferreira. - Photo: ( Aliee Silhanuz