Where were you born?

Kailua, Hawaii (island of Oahu), the windward side of the island with some of the most beautiful beaches.

How long have you worked at the Health District? What jobs have you had here?

Since June 2017, almost 9 years as PHP Training Officer.  Prior to coming to the district, I was the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for UMC and had the pleasure of working with Jeff, Misty and the OPHP team on emergency preparedness/management initiatives.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I had career aspirations in the area of corporate law, but after taking my first political science class in college, I decided it was not for me. Instead, I graduated with a Business Administration degree and enjoyed my first job in Resort Retail management for the Four Seasons Wailea and Grand Hyatt Wailea Properties.

What was your first job?

Summer school assistant for gymnastic and tennis programs at my alma mater, The Kamehameha Schools.  An interesting fact is that this school was founded in 1887 by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Paki Bishop who dedicated her estate to improving the capability and well-being of native Hawaiian people through education. I was so blessed to be a recipient of Princess Pauahi’s educational generosity which allowed me to share, encourage and instruct students attending summer programs at the Kapalama campus throughout my high school years.

What is your dream job?

I must say that I have had a few interesting and enjoyable positions over the years that have molded me into who I am today and I would not trade those experiences for anything.  My current role in emergency preparedness was not a dream job that I was pursuing 16 years ago, but my position within public health and our local health care to ensure that we continue improving our preparedness, response and recovery capabilities is so important.

What is your favorite…?

Favorite nickname:

Wen, not so much a “favorite” but rather what my friends and family seem to prefer.

Favorite TV show of Movie:

Legends of the Fall is one of my favorite movies. Game of Thrones and all the spin-offs are my favorite TV/streaming series.

Favorite local restaurant:

My new favorite is Summer House at the Durango Station Resort. Every meal and happy hour appetizers have never disappointed! Also, the Smores cookie at the outside Cookie Bar is delicious too!

Favorite charity:

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

What’s the best concert you’ve ever attended?

Journey, in 1983 (I’m dating myself!) and Def Leppard multiple times, but their most recent residency in February was awesome!

What is your hidden talent?

I would not call it a hidden talent, but I have been instructing fitness classes  for a really long time! Currently, I teach at the last standing 24 Hour Fitness in Summerlin and several EOS gyms in the Valley.  My passion for sports and fitness started at an early age, primarily with competitive swimming and tennis, and continued through college.  During my off season at UH Hilo I began teaching aerobics in our dorm, at Senior Centers, and finally at the local gym. This led to multiple certifications over the years and a variety of formats from cardio to strength and everything in between. It’s been a long ride and at this stage of my fitness life, the goal in each class and members I work with is to share with them the enjoyment of exercise, how it makes you feel not only during and after, but keeps you looking forward to the next one!

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and what would you do?

Japan, so I can travel across the country/islands, ride the bullet train, view Mt. Fuji, Cherry Blossoms, Temples/Shrines, and enjoy the street food! My great grandmother was a picture bride, sent from Japan to Hawaii to marry my grandfather in 1920, and I have always wanted to better understand the culture of my ancestry and visit her homeland.

What’s one item on your bucket list that you’re eager to check off?

Attend Wimbledon and Roland Garros Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments. I’m an avid tennis fan who marveled at the greats including Bjorn Borg, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, and Serena and Venus Williams! Fast forward, the new top players now do not disappoint either and one day I look forward to seeing Ethan Quinn (Jeff’s nephew) win a slam!

What is the best vacation you’ve ever experienced?

Cruise from England to Portugal, with stops in Amsterdam, Brugge, ports in France and Spain. Highlights of our trip included visiting the Eiffel Tower, Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain, Sanctury of Fatima in Portugal and the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.

If you could live anywhere, where would it be, and why?

Wherever my husband and daughters are!

Down the road during retirement, moving to Florida is probably where we will go so we can enjoy our mo’opuna (grandchildren)!