What are some hard lessons you had to learn in becoming a female powerhouse?

I’m not sure about the powerhouse part, but there are three lessons that I live by daily. When things are working well and you are acknowledged, you credit your entire team, not yourself. When someone in your team has made a mistake, as a leader, you solely take responsibility for what went wrong and correct in private. I’ve also learned that when a mistake is made you don’t jump to conclusions; but, instead give people the benefit of the doubt and investigate. Lastly, I’ve learned that your team is your Ohana, therefore, you protect, mentor and include them in your succession plan.

What is one of your proudest accomplishments in this career?

There are many; however, I would have to say being part of the amazing team at Adventist Health Castle who won the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, a presidential award given to organization/industries that focus on high quality outcomes that ultimately benefit the communities we serve.

What wardrobe choices make you feel the best in your workplace on the day-to-day?

I’d have to say that my mood, weight and hair dictates my day-to-day wardrobe selection. I have small, medium and large size clothes in my closet. Once the outfit size is determined, shoes, purses and jewelry will follow. At times it may take a new pair of shoes, a new purse or a piece of jewelry that will inspire that day’s attire and outlook for the day.

What mistake do you keep making again and again?

Not taking the time to slow down and enjoy my blessings and this beautiful place I get to call home.

What do you do for self-care?

Pray, always pray. A good friend once said, “Pray, step, pray, step, pray step,” and that’s what I try to do in all areas of my life.

How do you overcome fear?

I pause, breathe, meditate and pray. I search for positive words of affirmation from my Bible/books, and I share my fears with my closest hanai sister.

What chance encounter changed your life forever?

There are two; Meeting my ex-husband as that chance encounter that brought me to Hawai‘i and accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior.

When was the last time you cried?

There isn’t a last time it’s been more of how often. Since 2016, I’ve lost precious people, and, on November 18, 2019, I lost my tower of strength and the person that’s loved me like no other—my mom. I cry often.

If a crystal ball could tell you anything about your future, what would you want to know?

I’d like to know how my decisions, actions and career have impacted the people around me—those I know and those I’ve never met. I’d like to believe that I’ve left the world a bit better than when I entered it.

What was your biggest challenge within the last two years professionally?

Understanding and accepting that the healthcare industry continues to change. The greatest challenge has been re-inventing marketing and communications to ensure that we remain relevant and nimble with approaches that will effectively convey our services to our communities at large.