≡-Hawai‘i Launches Major Recruitment Drive for New Tourism Authority Board Members to Lead the Islands into a Sustainable and Culturally Rooted Future of Travel – Viral of Today

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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Hawai‘i Launches Major Recruitment Drive for New Tourism Authority Board Members to Lead the Islands into a Sustainable and Culturally Rooted Future of Travel Saturday, July 12, 2025Hawai‘i is taking a bold and strategic leap toward redefining its tourism future by launching a powerful transformation of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority through the creation of a new advisory board. This initiative aims to bring together twelve visionary leaders from across the islands who possess deep expertise in tourism-related sectors, cultural knowledge, and regional representation. By assembling a diverse team of industry professionals, cultural practitioners, and county representatives, Hawai‘i seeks to ensure that the state’s tourism model becomes more sustainable, inclusive, and rooted in local values. The goal is to shift away from outdated models of mass tourism and embrace a future where visitor growth aligns with community well-being, cultural preservation, and environmental responsibility.Hawai‘i Opens Call for New Tourism Authority Board Members to Shape the Future of the Islands’ Travel IndustryThe Office of Boards and Commissions for the State of Hawai‘i has launched a search for twelve dynamic individuals to join the board of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA), a pivotal organization responsible for guiding the direction of tourism across the Hawaiian Islands. This recruitment drive marks a significant opportunity for residents to influence the future of Hawai‘i’s visitor industry—an industry central to the state’s economy, environment, and cultural identity.Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Seeks New Board MembersIn accordance with Act 132, the HTA’s structure is undergoing transformation. The new advisory board will play a critical role in aligning tourism strategy with the needs of the community, natural resources, and cultural values of the islands. The authority is looking to assemble a balanced and experienced group of professionals with a range of qualifications and regional representation.The law stipulates that the board must include at least one representative from each of Hawai‘i’s four counties: Honolulu (Oʻahu), Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, and Maui. This geographic diversity ensures that all islands have a voice in discussions about tourism development, management, and sustainability.Qualifications and Industry ExpertiseThe HTA board positions are designed to bring together individuals with deep knowledge in specific sectors that influence or are impacted by tourism. At least six of the twelve appointees must possess significant experience in areas such as:Accommodations (hotels, resorts, vacation rentals)Transportation (airlines, cruise lines, ground services)Retail (shopping centers, boutiques, and marketplaces)Entertainment (live shows, cultural performances, and nightlife)Attractions (natural parks, museums, adventure tourism)These board members will be expected to contribute insights that ensure Hawai‘i’s tourism strategies are both competitive globally and respectful of the islands’ limited resources.In addition, at least one board member must represent an entity that is directly impacted by tourism. This requirement ensures that those who are on the front lines of tourism—whether businesses, community organizations, or environmental groups—can speak to the challenges and opportunities they face.Emphasizing Cultural RepresentationPreserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Hawai‘i remains a central theme for the HTA. To uphold this mission, the Governor will appoint at least one board member with extensive knowledge and experience in Hawaiian cultural practices. This cultural voice will be essential in guiding policies that elevate authentic Hawaiian traditions and values while deterring exploitative or culturally insensitive tourism trends.Board appointments made by the Governor are subject to approval by the Hawai‘i State Senate, ensuring a transparent selection process and broad accountability.Strategic Importance of the BoardAs the authority responsible for planning, promoting, and managing tourism in Hawai‘i, the HTA board has far-reaching influence. Board members will collaborate on decisions that affect tourism marketing, sustainable visitor growth, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation. They will also provide input on partnerships with airlines, travel agencies, destination management companies, and local businesses.With visitor expectations changing and global competition intensifying, this new board will help the HTA adapt to shifting trends while ensuring the wellbeing of Hawai‘i’s communities and ecosystems. The role of tourism in post-pandemic economic recovery, climate change resilience, and community-based tourism models will be key discussion points for the incoming members.A Call to Serve Hawai‘i’s FutureThis invitation to serve on the HTA board is aimed at leaders who are passionate about Hawai‘i’s future and committed to creating a tourism model that respects the land, people, and traditions of the islands. The chosen individuals will be instrumental in building a more responsible and balanced tourism landscape—one that benefits both residents and visitors.The HTA’s transition to a new advisory board model opens the door to voices from various backgrounds, industries, and islands. It is a defining moment for those who believe in shaping tourism through community-centric, sustainable, and culturally rooted strategies.ConclusionAs Hawai‘i navigates a new chapter in tourism governance, the recruitment of fresh, qualified board members marks an important step in aligning the travel industry with local values. With regional representation, industry expertise, and cultural sensitivity at the core of its new board structure, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority aims to redefine the visitor experience for years to come.Hawai‘i is reshaping its tourism future by forming a powerful new advisory board of twelve experts to lead sustainable, culturally grounded, and community-focused travel across the islands. This move ensures regional representation and industry innovation aligned with the state’s long-term vision.TagsHawai‘i, tourism authority, HTA board, tourism strategy, sustainable travel, Hawaiian culture, Honolulu, Maui, Kaua‘i, Hawaiʻi Island, travel governance, tourism appointments, hospitality industry

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