HONOLULU - Governor Josh Green, M.D., is announcing several appointments to state boards and commissions. Appointees serve on an unpaid, volunteer basis and the Governor appreciates their service to the public.

Lisa Paulson - Hawai?i Tourism Authority

Lisa Paulson’s extensive experience in Hawai?i’s tourism, hospitality and nonprofit sectors makes her an exceptional candidate for the Hawai?i Tourism Authority (HTA). Over three decades on Maui, she has demonstrated unparalleled leadership, particularly as the executive director of the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association, where she effectively bridged the gap between the visitor industry and the community. Her expertise in lobbying and stakeholder engagement has driven key initiatives, including securing funding for hospitality education and advocating for balanced regulations to benefit Maui’s economy and environment. Her deep understanding of tourism’s role in Hawai?i’s economy, combined with her ability to foster relationships with diverse stakeholders, positions her as a visionary leader who can advance HTA’s mission.

Paulson’s track record of community-focused leadership aligns with HTA’s goals of promoting sustainable tourism and preserving Hawai?i’s cultural and natural resources. As Maui’s Chief Executive Officer of the Food Bank and her previous roles with Maui County and Maui Health, she has consistently prioritized community well-being, resource preservation, and long-term planning. Notably, her role in shaping Maui’s Destination Management Plan showcases her strategic insight into balancing tourism growth with environmental stewardship and cultural respect. Her leadership during emergencies, such as her service at the Maui County Emergency Operations Center, further underscores her crisis management skills-essential for navigating the evolving challenges of Hawai?i’s tourism landscape.

Appointing Lisa Paulson to HTA brings a wealth of expertise, a strong commitment to community partnership, and a proven ability to navigate the complexities of Hawai?i’s tourism industry. Her dedication to education, sustainable practices, and community engagement demonstrates her alignment with HTA’s core values. With her guidance, HTA can foster a more harmonious relationship between Hawai?i’s visitors, residents, and natural resources, ensuring the industry’s prosperity while protecting the essence of what makes Hawai?i unique.

Carlotta Amerino - Director of the Office of Information Practices

Governor Green appointed Carlotta Amerino as Director of the Office of Information Practices on December 6, 2024. Ms. Amerino is an attorney who has spent her career in public service, starting after law school as a clerk with Judge Marie N. Milks (ret.). She has been with the Office of Information practices for almost 22 years, first as a staff attorney, then as the supervising attorney.

Hawai'i Community Development Authority

Miki?ala Lidstone, Cultural Specialist, HCDA Board
Trey Gordner, Kalaeloa Board

Hoisting Machine Operators Advisory Board

Fonokalafi Misi, member

Click for photos of Paulsen and Amerino.

Paulsen photo, copyright Aubrey Hord; Amerino photo courtesy Office of the Governor.