Kellie Kaleilehua Dinwiddie Kala
Kellie Kaleilehua Dinwiddie Kala is an accomplished Office Manager, Program Coordinator, and Communications Specialist with a deep commitment to education, Hawaiian culture, and community service. Born and raised in Kapālama, Oʻahu, she earned an associate degree in Pre-Education Liberal Arts and continued her studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where she completed bachelor’s degrees in Hawaiian Language and Hawaiian Studies, followed by a master’s degree in Hawaiian Studies. Her academic work, including serving as a Graduate Research Assistant and Lead Administrative Assistant to the Dean of the School of Hawaiian Knowledge, reflects her dedication to preserving and promoting Hawaiian knowledge and culture.
Kellie’s professional experience spans higher education, state government, and public service. She has served as Program Coordinator for the Short-Term in Hawaiʻi Program, Committee Clerk and Communications Specialist in the Hawaiʻi State House of Representatives, and Help Desk Specialist supporting the Pandemic EBT and Safe Travels Hawaiʻi initiatives. From January 2022 to November 2024, she managed legislative operations and constituent services as Office Manager for Representative Sonny Ganaden, and since November 2024, she has continued this work for Representative Daniel Holt, Chair of the House Committee on Legislative Management and the Native Hawaiian Caucus. Her work includes managing legislative workflows, coordinating community events, supporting policy initiatives, and drafting official communications.
With extensive experience in leadership, event planning, and community engagement, Kellie is now preparing to further her impact by pursuing a Juris Doctor degree. She envisions combining her legal education with her background in Hawaiian language, culture, and legislative work to advocate effectively for her community and advance initiatives that reflect her commitment to service, cultural preservation, and education. Outside of her professional pursuits, she remains actively involved in volunteer work and cultural programs, continually fostering opportunities to give back to her community.
• Master of Arts
• University of Hawaii at Manoa - MA
• Student Marshall
• Dean's List - 2010, 2012, 2015
• Phil Theta Kappa Membership
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to pursuing work that I am truly passionate about. As an Office Manager in a legislative setting, I love giving back to my community while supporting the critical work that helps pass important bills. In my role as a Program Coordinator, I assist with a wide range of office operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Before entering this field, I gained experience working with children as a tutor during college, which helped me develop strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills that I continue to apply in my current role.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: treat people well. I’ve found that showing respect, kindness, and integrity in every interaction not only builds strong relationships but also creates a positive and productive work environment.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are family, creativity, and self-expression. I prioritize spending quality time with my loved ones, and I find joy and balance through music and writing, which allow me to stay inspired and centered in everything I do.
Locations
State of Hawaiʻi
Honolulu, HI 96826