Taking Chances, Giving Back

Elena Cabatu speaks during her Kuleana and Community Talk Story session at Kilohana

The UH Mānoa Shidler College of Business MBA graduate shared what has built her foundation of service — with special acknowledgments to her father's role as a community police officer and her stepfather's contributions as a high school teacher and to the Zonta Club. Elena recounted her educational journey, from attending Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy to securing a soccer scholarship at Georgetown University — doors she described as having opened up for her because she was willing to take a chance.

“When an opportunity comes, take a deep breath, raise your hand, and step forward,” Cabatu described.

She highlighted her advocacy for women’s rights and her 19-year role at Hilo’s only hospital, where she’s currently helping to oversee an $88 million renovation that includes a much-needed expansion into Keaʻau (pictured below).

"I raised my hand to apply and accept this job at HBMC 19 years ago. I’ve loved every moment of it and feel very fortunate to be a part of the progress," said Cabatu.

Elena stressed the importance of managing energy and time effectively, and making both personal and professional choices that align with whatever your guideposts are.

Cabatu in her role as the Director of Marketing, Legislative and Public Affairs at Hilo Benioff Medical Center

“I wanted to work on issues I care about, and do something that matters, something that helps. Because I think when you do that, you can’t go wrong." Cabatu urged the crowd to consider what their own personal guideposts would be. “What are your three guideposts that’ll help you create your purpose, your kuleana, in making sure that our Hilo is going to be okay in the coming years?”

Event participants say Cabatu’s discussion hit a powerful chord.

“It really resonated — the idea that you can grow up in a certain place and not know about other possibilities, but then find out about them and take advantage of them and then come back,” said Prof. Sarah Marusek, PhD, who chairs the Department of Political Science, and brought her PolySci 101 class to the presentation.

Organizers were equally inspired by Cabatu’s message.

“Her journey—earning scholarships, attending Georgetown, advocating for women’s health, and ultimately returning home to serve Hilo through healthcare leadership — illustrates how kuleana evolves across different stages of life. What stood out most was the reminder that kuleana is not only an obligation but also a way to align passions with service to others,” said Lam.

Cabatu greets crowd at Kuleana and Community Talk Story session

Lam is especially excited about this year’s diverse line-up of speakers — all of whom were selected to motivate action and reflection through their unique insights.

“Each presentation highlights a different aspect of kuleana — whether through community resilience, mental health, cultural preservation, or leadership — and together they provide a fuller understanding of what it means to serve our community,” said Lam.

Kuleana and Community Talk Story sessions continue every Friday from 12 noon to 1:00 p.m. in Kilohana: The Academic Success Center. The free event is open to the public and runs through November 14, 2025.