HONOLULU, HI – The Nakupuna Companies and their non-profit owner organization, the Nakupuna Foundation, announce the appointment of Jennifer Goto Sabas to the Nakupuna Board of Advisors. Sabas joins a distinguished group of leaders whose expertise spans federal policy, defense, government contracting, and community engagement.
Sabas has extensive leadership experience throughout the public and nonprofit sectors, including over 25 years working for the late U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye. As his Chief of Staff, Sabas contributed to the development of key legislative outcomes that enhanced national security, increased military readiness, and delivered critical resources to Hawaiʻi. Today, she continues this work through focusing on workforce development and defense innovation initiatives that broaden options for local talent.
“Jennifer understands, at a fundamental level, how enduring progress is built through trusted relationships and clear alignment between plans and execution,” said Jason Greenawalt, CEO of the Nakupuna Companies. “Her perspective will sharpen how we deliver for our federal customers, expand our capabilities, and continue to translate success into meaningful opportunities that align with our mission as a Native Hawaiian Organization.”
As the owner of the firm Kaimana Hila, Sabas works with Hawaiʻi-based and national organizations to strengthen connections with federal agencies, Congress, and state and county governments. She also serves as President of the Daniel K. Inouye Institute, where she advances national partnerships and educational initiatives that preserve Senator Inouye’s legacy and inspire future generations of leaders.
“Throughout my career, I have focused on building connections that create opportunity and strengthen both national priorities and local communities,” said Sabas. “Nakupuna thrives at this intersection, delivering outstanding support for the government while driving investments in our local communities through the Nakupuna Foundation. I look forward to contributing to the company’s strategic direction and helping expand its impact across Hawaiʻi, the Indo-Pacific, and the broader federal landscape.”
Sabas will be working alongside other industry experts on the Board of Advisors to advise Nakupuna as it continues to build a resilient, forward-looking organization committed to delivering operational excellence for its clients and increasing economic opportunities for Hawaʻi’s communities.
