Chief Public Affairs Officer
W. M. Keck Observatory
The unifying thread of T. Ilihia Gionson’s work is bringing people together through shared stories and values. He has over a decade of experience in developing and executing public affairs for private organizations and government entities at the federal, state, and county levels. His experience spans a variety of industries where he served clients in government and politics, renewable energy, affordable housing, hospitality, and the creative industries.
As Public Affairs Officer for the Hawai?i Tourism Authority (HTA), Ilihia led the agency’s community interface through its transformation coming out of the global pandemic, and during the recovery from the devastating Maui wildfires in 2023. His work with HTA as a connector ensured value alignment between the visitor industry and the Hawaiian community, committing the industry to a regenerative future.
Today, Ilihia serves as Chief Public Affairs Officer at the W. M. Keck Observatory, where he uses his deeply rooted sense of service and stewardship to foster collaboration, strengthen community relations, and respectfully move forward together in mutual stewardship of the premier site for astronomy on Earth.