Christine Matsuda finds joy in doing work that advances the interests of our community here in Hawaiʻi, from working to spark transformation for Maunakea astronomy, providing media relations in support of Hōkūleʻa’s Worldwide Voyage, to public health campaigns in response to the pandemic. A decade of experience in issues management, crisis communications, community engagement, and public relations continues to prove that the more challenging the issue, the more complex the misunderstandings probably are between the people involved. Christine has learned that listening, building commonality, and storytelling with authenticity are cornerstones of how we can advance as a community, together.

Christine was raised in Kaimuki on the island of Oʻahu in the shade of mango trees and under the watchful eyes of exacting aunties. After attending Punahou School, Christine studied comparative literature and dove into the impact of news media on society during her time at the University of Southern California. Christine is privileged to spend time in Nuʻuanu, Kaʻaʻawa, Hilo, and Waimea for both family ties and professional collaborations. She can usually be found with her rascal sons in tow for the adventures around every corner.