Waioli Corporation & Nuhou Corporation, Executive Director
April 13, 2024
Thank you for your interest – the search is now closed, and the position has been filled.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
Waioli Corporation and Nuhou Corporation (Waioli – Nuhou) share the rich, diverse multicultural heritage of Kauai by authentically preserving numerous important historic sites and collections around the island. The sites and collections are made available to be enjoyed by the local community and visitors through guided tours and educational research. These sites include Waioli Mission House and Mahamoku museums in Hanalei, the Grove Farm Homestead museum in Lihue, and an original locomotive roundhouse in Puhi, which includes the largest collection of operating Kauai sugar plantation steam locomotives. The three museum sites and four plantation steam locomotives are listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Founded by Miss Mabel Wilcox in 1975, Waioli Corporation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization and Nuhou Corporation is a 509(a)(3) non-profit supporting organization. Their mission is: Our kuleana is to preserve Grove Farm and Waioli Mission House museums, and other important properties, buildings, and collections, and to share authentic educational experiences through stories about the people, collections, and diverse properties that bring life to Kauai’s rich history and culture. Waioli - Nuhou continues their mission to honor the vibrant history of Kauai.
PROPERTIES & MUSEUMS
The Grove Farm Homestead Museum stands as a testament to the significance of the sugar industry in Hawaii's history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past through its exceptional collections and preserved plantation structures. Grove Farm museum’s impressive collection of steam locomotives bridges cane haul methods from the earliest ox-drawn carts to steam driven locomotives to the use of gas-powered cane trucks. The Waioli Mission House, built in 1836, provides insights into the missionary work that shaped traditional Hawaiian communities. Waioli-Nuhou also protects several still farmed ancient pre-contact taro fields and ʻauwai systems of the Waioli Valley. Waioli-Nuhou also provides a community park in Hanalei. Mahamoku was built in 1914 and is the last surviving twentieth century intact beach house along Hanalei Bay which provides a unique extended museum experience that gives visitors personal knowledge of the pace and lifestyle of that bygone era.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
Waioli – Nuhou is poised for growth and innovation, presenting an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader to help shape its future trajectory. With recent funding injections and heightened community interest, there is immense potential to expand programs, deepen engagement, and solidify the organization's position as a cultural cornerstone on Kauai.
The Executive Director will have the chance to preserve and enhance Grove Farm Homestead and Waioli Mission House museums, along with other significant properties and collections. This role offers the unique privilege of sharing authentic educational experiences that celebrate Kauai's rich history and culture. This pivotal role offers the chance to foster collaboration, inspire creativity, and steer Waioli – Nuhou towards a future defined by impact and relevance. As the organization embarks on this transformative journey, the Executive Director will champion bold ideas and inclusive practices, ensuring that Waioli's legacy continues to thrive in the years ahead.
The Executive Director will report to the Boards of Directors for Waioli Corporation and Nuhou Corporation, providing leadership and strategic direction for the organization. Responsibilities include overseeing staff and operations, financial management, resource development, and community outreach. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership abilities, a passion for preserving cultural heritage, and a commitment to serving the Kauai community.