UH Hilo alumna Elise Inouye, press secretary for U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono
From a young age, Elise Inouye knew she wanted to be in public service. Her time at UH Hilo, specifically her first women’s studies course, solidified her decision.
While U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono works on behalf of the citizens of Hawaiʻi, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo alumna Elise Inouye is by her side to communicate positions and policies. Inouye is Hirono’s press secretary — crafting press releases, floor speeches and more on a daily basis.
From a young age, Inouye knew she wanted to be in public service. Her time at UH Hilo, specifically her first women’s studies course, solidified her decision.
“I didn’t know that that was an area of study that was even an option afforded to me,” says Inouye. “It may sound a little dramatic, but I do think that taking that one course has really changed my life.”
Inouye graduated from UH Hilo in 2017 with baccalaureate degrees in communication and gender and women’s studies. She said UH Hilo prepared her for her current role.
“I think that both of those programs and degrees that I received from UH Hilo have led me to where I am today, but also I use the skills that I gained and the knowledge and insight from those courses on a regular basis,” says Inouye.
She pushes preparation, especially for those with double majors.
“I think the biggest piece of advice would be to plan ahead,” says Inouye. “My career counselor, the guidance counselor that I had at Hilo was my best friend. I saw him on a monthly basis just to touch base.”
Being based in Washington, D.C. has shown Inouye that staying connected to the UH alumni community is critical.
“Being far away from Hawaiʻi and home and having that sense of community out there is crucial,” says Inouye. “It’s so important.”
