Three women and two native Hawaiian organizations have been honored by the Democratic Party of Hawaii Women's Caucus for their contributions to the health of Hawaii's people. 3 women, 2 groups cited
for promoting isle healthStar-Bulletin staff
"Each of the honorees has provided exemplary leadership in the state of Hawaii in their respective areas of health specialty," Hawaii Democratic Party Chairwoman Lorraine Akiba said at an awards luncheon last month at the Pacific Club. "All of us owe these outstanding women and organizations our deepest thanks for their commitment and dedication to making Hawaii a healthier place."
The honorees include:
>> Dr. Virginia Pressler, deputy director for Health Resources Administration, state Department of Health. She was recognized for her efforts in designating 60 percent of the state's $1.3 billion tobacco fund for public health services and for other contributions to community health care. A graduate of the John A. Burns School of Medicine, she has been a general surgeon, University of Hawaii associate professor of surgery and medical director of the Breast Clinic and Breast Health Center at the Queen's Medical Center.
>> Dr. Louise Iwaishi, director of the Division of Community Pediatrics, University of Hawaii. A Maui native and graduate of the John A. Burns School of Medicine, she was honored for her work in children's health. She is chief of pediatrics education at the Honolulu Unit of the Shriners Hospital for Children; principal investigator of the Maternal Child Health Leadership Education in Neurodevelopment Disabilities program, and co-principal investigator of the Pediatric Residency Training in the Community of the Hawaii Dyson Initiative; and president, Hawaii Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics.
>> Terri Imada, registered nurse who coordinates the Cancer Screening and Education Program at St. Francis Medical Center. She was honored for helping to raise awareness of cancer prevention and the importance of early detection.
>> Papa Ola Lokahi, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the health status and well-being of native Hawaiians. Papa Ola Lokahi's directors include 10 public institutions and private organizations dedicated to improving the health status of native Hawaiians and other cultural and ethnic groups in Hawaii and Hawaiians across the mainland.
>> Ke Alaula, a grass-roots effort comprised of native Hawaiian community leaders from Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu and Kauai. Ke Alaula's goal is to improve native Hawaiian health by being a voice for community health issues.
The Hawaii Democratic Women's Caucus was formed under Akiba's leadership last year to provide a discussion forum and to find solutions to issues facing women in Hawaii.