HONOLULU, Hawaii – October 1, 2009 – The Alaka‘ina Foundation today announced that it has named Jessica M. Horiuchi as Executive Director. In her new position, Horiuchi will oversee the Alaka‘ina Foundation’s day-to-day operations and serve as primary contact for all Foundation activities, including community relations.

The Alaka‘ina Foundation is majority owner of Akimeka Technologies. In 2009, Akimeka Technologies, a Native Hawaiian Organization (HHO)-owned business, won several major Department of Defense contracts. Based on Akimeka Technologies’ success, the Alaka`ina Foundation is posed to experience significant growth in 2010. In order to ensure proper focus, the Board of Directors made the decision to hire an executive director.

“We felt that we needed dedicated management to guide the Foundation forward as we expand our programs to provide education and leadership opportunities for Native Hawaiian youth,” says Vaughn Vasconcellos, Alaka‘ina Foundation president. “Jessica has the skills and vision needed to help us best meet our mission,” added Vasconcellos

Before joining the Alaka‘ina Foundation, Ms. Horiuchi was a government relations consultant for entities ranging from renewable energy producers to non-profits needing to navigate the state administrative process. She also served as the executive director of the Hawaii Procurement Institute.

About Alaka‘ina Foundation

The Alaka‘ina Foundation is a non-profit Native Hawaiian Organization. Its goal is to ensure that the youth of Hawai’i have the skills and competencies needed to become effective leaders. The Foundation is making this a reality by developing innovative educational programs, such as the Digital Bus project, that combine leadership, science and technology, and environmental stewardship. From more information, visit the Foundation online at www.alakainafoundation.org.