The first time I heard Dr. George Kanahele speak, he made me uncomfortable. He was speaking at a Hawaii Hotel Association meeting about the importance of this place, Hawaii, its history of hospitality, and yet how few of the members of the Hotel Association knew much of Hawaii’s history or, in fact, very much about the place at all.

I was uncomfortable because, in my case, he was correct. I was impressed that he felt passionate enough about his beliefs to call the group to task. He thought there was a tremendous opportunity for our industry to recognize the history and traditions of Hawaiian hospitality and to create a place apart from other destinations offering sun, surf and physical accommodations equal to our own. Shortly thereafter, through Kitty Lagaretta of Communications Pacific, I got to know George personally. He helped me understand better the importance of this special place in our business – - hospitality – -and encouraged me to learn more of its history and culture; ideas that I thought critical to our success. 
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Since that time, George generously and patiently shared his ideas with our entire ‘ohana. The changes he has helped us to make over the last seven years are truly amazing. He has taught us that Waikiki is far more than buildings and roads; it has a soul that includes the rich history of the Alii, such as Princess Kaiulani, the taro patches and the Wizard Stones. Waikiki is waiting for us who live here, as well as those who visit, to discover and enjoy. George has introduced ways to bring this history to our guests. Our values, our mission of hospitality, the songs of our many employee groups, and our focus on the importance of place in Waikiki, the neighbor islands, and throughout the Pacific, are all results of his influence on our company. 

Through his persistence and teaching in all parts of our community, including the police, TheBus and the airport authority, our visitors are more aware, and we are more protective and prouder of this place. “Sense of Place” has become part of our vocabulary and a goal in architecture and community improvements throughout the state. I believe that without his vision and influence, the Waikiki Historical Trail and, indeed, all of the improvements now near completion in Waikiki would not have happened.

In this short time on earth, all of us hope we make a difference. George has made a huge difference. Each of our lives and the lives of our visitors are enriched because of his tenacity in his belief that tourism will be the “keeper of the culture.” We are a lot closer to that goal because of his caring and his willingness to take a stand. 

I have read that “Successful leadership depends on a fundamental shift of being; a deep commitment to the dream and a passion for serving versus the pursuit of status and power.” That is the essence of George Kanahele. His life has made a difference. 

His thoughts and teachings have constantly challenged me to learn and to grow. He often said how fortunate we were to be in an industry whose goal was caring and loving. I shall be forever grateful that I came to know him and to love him. I shall miss him – - we all will miss him.
George Kanahele passed away in Guam on September 18.