Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Names Inspiring New Public Affairs Officer to Oversee Bold Communication Strategies, Amplify Community Involvement, and Promote Groundbreaking Sustainable Travel Practices

A forward-thinking public affairs officer has been named to oversee communications for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA). Focusing on advancing sustainable tourism efforts, the new officer will be responsible for shaping the way the Aloha State is messaging its efforts around tourism. The leadership of those like them will be key to positioning Hawai‘i as a place where growth is balanced with environmental stewardship, and allowing visitors to make a meaningful connection to the islands’ abundant culture and landscapes.

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) has officially appointed a new Public Affairs Officer, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization. With over two decades of experience in public affairs, strategic communications, and historic and cultural preservation, this appointment comes at a pivotal time for HTA as it continues its

The new Public Affairs Officer holds a master’s degree in management from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Indiana University. These academic credentials reflect a strong commitment to addressing complex issues in both the public and private sectors. Throughout their career, the individual has developed expertise in strategic communications and community outreach, with a focus on cultural and historic preservation.

Over the past twenty years, the new appointee has worked with various organizations and government entities, helping to shape communications strategies that bridge the gap between tourism, local communities, and environmental conservation. Their ability to connect stakeholders—ranging from local residents to government agencies and tourism operators—has been a hallmark of their career. In previous roles, the individual was instrumental in crafting public affairs strategies that encouraged collaboration, facilitated dialogue, and promoted community involvement in key decision-making processes.

In the new role at HTA, the Public Affairs Officer will oversee the authority’s public relations and communications strategies. They will work directly with local media, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure that Hawai‘i’s tourism message remains aligned with its values of cultural preservation and sustainable travel. A significant part of their work will focus on raising awareness about the importance of responsible tourism, ensuring that visitors to Hawai‘i understand the impact of their travel and how they can engage with the islands’ culture and natural resources respectfully.

The appointment is particularly significant in light of the ongoing efforts by HTA to recalibrate Hawai‘i’s tourism strategies. As Hawai‘i looks to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and protecting its environmental and cultural assets, the new Public Affairs Officer’s experience will be invaluable in communicating the critical role of sustainability in tourism development. Under their leadership, HTA will continue to explore new avenues to promote tourism that benefits both the local population and visitors, with a strong emphasis on preserving Hawai‘i’s natural landscapes and cultural landmarks.

One of the key challenges in this role will be navigating the delicate balance between tourism growth and the preservation of Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage. As the state’s primary agency responsible for tourism management, HTA has been actively promoting tourism initiatives that align with sustainable practices. These initiatives range from encouraging eco-friendly travel habits among visitors to implementing programs that support local businesses and protect natural sites. The Public Affairs Officer will play a central role in communicating these efforts, ensuring that HTA’s messages resonate with both the local community and tourists alike.

A significant aspect of the role will also be to engage with the people of Hawai‘i to ensure that tourism strategies are responsive to the concerns of residents. As the voice of HTA, the Public Affairs Officer will facilitate dialogue between the organization and the diverse communities across the islands, ensuring that local perspectives are reflected in the agency’s strategies and that tourism development is conducted in a way that benefits all. Community outreach will be a core part of their communications strategy, helping HTA continue to foster positive relationships with residents and empower local communities to shape the tourism industry in Hawai‘i.

The focus on community engagement will be essential as HTA moves forward with its mission to support sustainable tourism that aligns with the values of local Hawai‘i residents. As the tourism industry grows and evolves, it is crucial that the development of tourism infrastructure, policies, and marketing efforts remain inclusive and considerate of Hawai‘i’s unique cultural and environmental heritage. The new Public Affairs Officer’s leadership will be pivotal in ensuring that these values are consistently communicated and embedded in HTA’s approach to tourism development.

Moreover, as Hawai‘i aims to promote more sustainable travel practices, the Public Affairs Officer will also oversee initiatives that educate visitors on how to minimize their environmental footprint during their stay. This includes highlighting opportunities for travelers to engage with Hawai‘i’s local communities through cultural experiences, conservation efforts, and eco-tourism activities. By strategically communicating these messages, the Public Affairs Officer hopes to cultivate a deep sense of respect among tourists for the places they visit.

In closing, Wehmiller’s new role is a significant step for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. With a wealth of experience in public affairs, including governmental and media relations, along with advocacy and the preservation of culture, they are in a unique position to spearhead HTA’s activities to market Hawai‘i and strategically communicate the destination’s standards for sustainability, community, and the safeguarding of its extraordinary cultural and natural resources. As Hawai‘i develops in to the future as a tourist destination, the new Public Affairs Officer will have an opportunity to lead an exciting future and build on the islands’ tourism — an industry that aims to benefit Hawai‘i’s people and guests for generations to come.