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Guiding our keiki back to the right path: Marlaina Fujisawa, Unit 13
When our community’s keiki face challenging times, parents know who to call for help. Marlaina Fujisawa, a Unit 13 member and longtime social worker, has dedicated more than two decades to serving the Judiciary. In her role, she manages a diverse caseload, guiding juveniles back onto the right path. There is truly no limit to…
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An inspirational leader and the Department of Health’s 2025 Employee of the Year, Bobbie Teixeira, Unit 13
Recognized for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting Hawaii’s water systems, Bobbie Teixeira, a Unit 13 member and environmental health specialist, was honored as the Department of Health’s 2025 Employee of the Year. Like many keiki growing up in Kaneohe, Bobbie spent her childhood playing in the water, where she developed a deep…
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👮♂️ Fearless hero: Robert Umiamaka, Unit 14, Protecting the community with bravery and dedication!
If malicious actors want to wreak havoc at our airports, they’ll have to go through Deputy Sheriff Robert Umiamaka and his K-9 Lexy first. A Unit 14 member and a director on HGEA’s Board of Directors, he’s been protecting the public for more than a decade. After starting as a corrections officer, Umiamaka later became…
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HGEA on KITV Island Life Live ft. Jaedyn Pavao, Unit 9 Nurse & 2025 Miss Aloha Hula
As we celebrate Nurses’ Week, joining us on KITV Island Life Live is Unit 9 Member Jaedyn Janae Puahaulani Pavao. She spoke on her win in the Miss Aloha Hula competition at this year’s Merrie Monarch Festival, and her experience as a Registered Nurse II with the state Department of Health on Kauai.
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Dispatchers Appreciation Week: Unit 4 Members Davlynn Racadio and Melia Johnson
With over two decades of experience in the field, Dispatchers Davlynn Racadio and Melia Johnson, Unit 4 members, have been the lifesaving voice behind the scenes. They were instrumental in coordinating the 2023 Maui Wildfires emergency response with their team, handling over 4,000 calls in a 24-hour period. In recognition of their extraordinary service, Maui…
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Library Workers Appreciation Day: Meet Jessica Gleason
On this Library Workers Day, we are celebrating one of our local superheroes! Since 2006, Wailuku Bookmobile Librarian and Unit 13 member Jessica Gleason has been spreading the love of reading on Maui. She’s a fixture in her community, delivering information and resources to support people in all chapters of their life. Gleason is one…
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HGEA School Psychologists on Island Life Live!
This National School Psychology Week, watch our Island Life Live segment celebrating school psychologists. Unit 13 members Amanda Garrett, based at Mililani Uka Elementary School, and Lynette Cantere, from the Department of Education Honolulu District Office discussed how school psychologists help students succeed even under the strain of high vacancies and what can be done…
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Mahalo Waste & Recycling Workers
In honor of National Waste & Recycling Workers Week, HGEA would like to mahalo the work of these dedicated public servants who are helping to keep our communities clean and sustainable for future generations. These professionals provide critical services that educate the public on the importance of diverting trash from landfills, along with implementing strategies that keep our…
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National Speech-Language Pathologists Day
In honor of National Speech-Language Pathologist Day, HGEA would like to mahalo the work of our dedicated speech-language pathologists (SLPs). These professionals provide critical support to help students improve their communication skills. We’re so proud to represent them. Here are a few of their stories: Maria Cappello, KauaiSpeech Pathologist IV, Dept. of EducationUnit 13 Member My…
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Honoring Nurses and School Professionals
In honor of National Nurses Week and Teachers Appreciation Week, HGEA would like to mahalo the work of these tireless professionals in our community. Mahalo to our 1,700 public-sector nurses for your commitment and service, and for making a difference in the lives of Hawaii’s people at our hospitals, community health centers, long-term care facilities, correctional institutions, schools and community…
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