The Native Hawaiian Advisory Board guides the UH Cancer Center research affecting the Native Hawaiian community. Composed of respected community leaders, health professionals, and cultural experts, the Board provides input on UH Cancer Center projects.

Karl Veto Baker, Kumu Hula, Hālau I Ka Wēkiu

Reginald Ho, MD, Physician, Straub Medical Center

Claire Hughes, DrPH, Retired, Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

Palama Lee, PhD, Director, Research and Evaluation, Liliʻuokalani Trust

Jodi Leslie, DrPH, RDN, LDN, Co-owner, Kukui Lifestyle Medicine Clinic

Alika Maunakea, PhD, Professor, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry, and Physiology, UH JABSOM

Trevor Maunakea, President, Maunakea Integrated Solutions

Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, Director, Community Relations, Hawaiian Airlines

Nathan Wong, MD, Retired Physician, Kaiser Permanente

Over the past decade, the National Cancer Institute has increasingly emphasized the importance of community engagement to inform the content and approach to cancer research conducted by investigators in NCI-designated cancer centers. Community Advisory Boards (CAB) are usually comprised of a variety of cancer control stakeholders.

The UH Cancer Center CAB represents the voices of our community. It serves as an essential connection between the Cancer Center and the community, promoting an equitable bi-directional exchange of information and ideas to address the cancer burden faced by our community.

Composition

The CAB is comprised of cancer survivors, patient and caregiver advocates, research advocates, cancer care provider representatives, representatives from medically underserved groups, and members from community-based organizations.

CAB Roles and Responsibilities

• Support the Cancer Center in its mission to reduce the burden of cancer in our catchment area and address cancer health disparities.
• Advise on cancer control priorities for the community, research directions, and clinical care.
• Assist with dissemination of research and evidence-based findings to communities.
• Participate in development and execution of Cancer Center's strategic plans.

Chairs

The CAB elects a Chair and Vice-Chair among its members. The term limit is two-years for each position and the Vice-Chair takes over as Chair.

Meeting Frequency

The CAB meets face-to-face every two months, and more frequently as needed. When necessary, members may participate remotely. Standing subcommittees or ad hoc work groups may meet as needed. CAB members participate in Cancer Center activities and strategic planning.

Membership

The Patient Advocacy Council (PAC) supports the UH Cancer Center by promoting cancer research and clinical trials in Hawaiʻi, and empowering those affected by cancer with knowledge and hope.  PAC volunteer members are dedicated advocates for cancer patients and caregivers.  The PAC includes patients, survivors, metastatic thrivers, caregivers, clinical trial participants and local community leaders.

Members

The Pacific Island Community Advisory Board guides UH Cancer Center research affecting Pacific Islanders. The Board is composed of respected community leaders, health professionals, and cultural experts, and provides input on UH Cancer Center projects.

Chuuk

Rensily Alik-Chuukese - Burea Church
Senny Petrus - St. Burea Church
Alily Welle - Chuukese Women Fellowship Group
Anthonia Mori Phillip - Chuukese Women Fellowship Group
Keflin Matin - Chuukese Women Fellowship Group

Republic of the Marshall Islands

Evelyn Mongkeya - Honolulu Marshallese United Church of Christ
Nita Hanchor - RMI Community in Waipaho
Gamaliel Cornelius - RMI Community Waipaho
Granda Hezekeli - River of Life Church
Lise Stephen - River of Life Church
John Ishoda - retired, Hawaiʻi State Department of Health

Kosrae

Sepe Hadik - Kosrae Women Food Distribution
Steve Palsis - Pentacostal Church
Ason Tulensru - Utwe Kosrae Organization in Honolulu
Willie Wakuk - Utwe Kosrae Organization in Honolulu