Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village Welcomes Dr. Loretta Chen as New Executive Director

Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village Appoints Dr. Loretta Chen

Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village (HPV), a vital educational and cultural establishment in Hawaii committed to preserving the narratives of the plantation era, has appointed Dr. Loretta Chen as its new Executive Director. Her role begins on July 1, 2026, aiming to enhance the mission of the village in celebrating Hawaii’s multicultural heritage.

Founded in 1992 and situated in Waipahu, HPV has dedicated itself to recounting the experiences of diverse groups who migrated from countries such as China, Japan, Korea, Portugal, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to work on Hawaii's sugar plantations. With Dr. Chen at the helm, the organization looks forward to expanding its community engagement efforts and educational programs, ensuring the rich stories of its past are effectively conveyed to future generations.

Dr. Chen, who boasts over 20 years of experience in education, entrepreneurship, and community leadership, intends to build upon the strong foundation laid by her predecessors. "As we navigate the future, I believe it's essential to honor our history while continually developing new pathways for engagement and growth," remarked Dr. Kats Gustafson, President of the Board of Directors. "Dr. Chen's unique skill set—a blend of educational acumen and entrepreneurial spirit—will be instrumental in guiding the village’s future initiatives."

Dr. Chen's extensive background includes significant work with local schools and nonprofits, focusing on creating collaborative efforts that promote education and cultural awareness. Her previous experience as Founder and CEO of Smobler, an innovation company, aligns seamlessly with the village's vision of leveraging technology in educational settings.

With support from community leaders, including Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, Dr. Chen's appointment is seen as a pivotal step towards redefining community relationships and enhancing educational opportunities within HPV. Mayor Blangiardi remarked, "The stories and values preserved at Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village are integral to our community. It’s essential that future generations are connected to the sacrifices and triumphs that shaped our rich heritage."

Expressing her enthusiasm for her new position, Dr. Chen noted, "Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village resonates with me because it encapsulates a narrative that is profoundly local yet possesses universal relevance. The plantation experience has profoundly influenced our current identity, and preserving these stories is imperative. For me, this is not merely a managerial task but a meaningful journey of cultural stewardship."

As she embarks on this new chapter, Dr. Chen aims to elevate the visibility of HPV within Hawaii and beyond, allowing more individuals to engage with and appreciate the stories that affirm Hawaii’s diverse cultural landscape. She is committed not only to storytelling but also to fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate history that informs the current societal fabric.

With her innovative mindset and community-oriented approach, Dr. Chen is poised to contribute significantly to Hawaiʻi's Plantation Village. Her leadership will surely enhance the organization’s ability to connect with both residents and visitors alike, making vital contributions toward the perpetuity of Hawaii's multicultural narratives.

In conclusion, as HPV enters a new era with Dr. Chen's leadership, the community eagerly anticipates the expansion of its educational outreach and advocacy for preserving Hawaii's rich cultural legacy, eager to witness how these stories will inspire future generations.