Lisa Letoto-Ohata is a dedicated advocate for Native Hawaiian education and a Program Assistant at Nā Pua Noʻeau, an enrichment initiative at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa aimed at empowering Native Hawaiian students. With nearly 15 years of service, she has played a pivotal role in creating culturally rooted, hands-on learning experiences that connect students and their families (ʻohana) to educational pathways in STEM, arts, and literacy. Letoto-Ohata’s commitment to Hawaiian youth was recognized in 2022 when Nā Pua Noʻeau received the Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network (HCAN) “Champions for Children Unsung Hero” award for its profound impact on the local community.

Lisa’s work at Nā Pua Noʻeau includes developing virtual programs that integrate cultural identity and interactive learning, providing a bridge to higher education for students from pre-kindergarten through high school. Her efforts align with the University of Hawaiʻi’s goals to create a learning environment rooted in Hawaiian values and to increase access to higher education for Native Hawaiian students.

Lisa’s influence on the community exemplifies her dedication to fostering success in future generations through culturally relevant and immersive educational experiences.