The Maui News

WAILUKU – After an extensive search, Maui Food Bank has named Lisa Paulson as executive director, effective August 19, 2024. The appointment comes at a critical time as the organization addresses a 65 percent increase in food insecurity needs due to the recent Maui wildfires.

“We are very pleased to welcome Lisa Paulson as our new CEO,” said Maui Food Bank Chairman Jason Economou. “Her extensive experience and proven leadership skills in crisis management and community collaboration will be invaluable as we address increased demand for our services and continue our mission to end hunger in Maui County.”

Paulson is a long-time Maui executive with 25 years of business leadership experience in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. Most recently, she served as executive director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, where she notably led evacuation efforts for approximately 12,000 tourists during the Maui wildfires.

Her previous roles include serving as a community liaison with a focus on hospitality and environmental stewardship for the County of Maui. Paulson has also held key positions at Maui Health, Jones Lang LaSalle and A&B Properties, providing her with a diverse and solid background.

Paulson has been recognized for her exceptional crisis management and leadership skills and was named one of USA Today magazine’s Women of the Year. She has actively worked with several Maui nonprofit organizations including Maui United Way, American Heart Association, Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, Malama I Ke Ola Health Center, Maui OnStage, Book Trust Maui, Maui Academy of Performing Arts, and Maui Humane Society.

Paulson holds a Master of Science in Marketing from Drexel University, a certificate in nonprofit management from UCLA, and a Bachelor of Arts in business administration and music from Chatham University. In 2023, she was celebrated as one of Pacific Business Magazine’s Most Admired Leaders and “Woman in Business and Hospitality of the Year” by Pacific Edge Magazine.