Allow us to introduce you to just a few of the nearly 500 professionals who are on staff at Hale Makua. All of our employees are committed to providing our residents and clients with the best possible care in a warm, loving environment.
Rene Akina, LPN
Head LPN, Day Health
I have been with Hale Makua for over 30 years. My current position is the best, as I get a chance to use and incorporate everything I’ve learned. I get to work a little with activities, maintenance exercise, beauty shop, masseuse, or just plain talk story. Oh, and I even get to do a little nursing!
Margie Albete
Director of Admissions/Financial Counselor
Since graduating from college, Hale Makua is only the second job I’ve applied for…and I’ve been here ever since! This is such a warm and special place to work. I love my job at Hale Makua.
Tiffany Benton
Administrator
Hale Makua is a very special place filled with staff and volunteers who provide quality care for our residents. I am honored to be part of this compassionate and progressive organization.
Dionie Cabias, LPN
Staffing Supervisor
Hale Makua was my first and only employer! I began in 1980 as a Staff LPN, worked my way up, and I am currently in charge of scheduling 200 nursing staff.
Fely Cadavis
Housekeeper & Laundry Worker
When I was working in the hotel industry, I didn’t get to know my customers. I like working here because I can get to know the residents.
Ria Castillo, CNA & Katz Souza, CNA
Exercise Aide - Exercise Aide
Because we’re working with very good friends, it’s not work at all!
Temmie Faudan, Linda Fernandez, & Susie Lising, CNA
Administrative Secretary - Unit Clerk - Activities Assistant
We love working here, not only because of the residents, but because of the people we work with. We are one big ohana.
Jennifer Gardanier
Health Information Management Supervisor
I began my employment at Hale Makua when I was 16 years old as a kitchen helper/transporter. I then left Hale Makua to continue my education and start a family. In 1999 I returned as a Ward Clerk, and in the past 7 years I have actively worked my way up the Hale Makua ladder. I hope to still be climbing in years to come.
Saundra Gaskey, RD
Administrator, Wailuku
Hale Makua is a very special place. It exemplifies the true spirit of Aloha. Everyday I feel like I'm on a cruise ship, with all the activities and the delicious foods. But more impressive is the caring compassion you see in all of our employees here. Hale Makua is my family in the true spirit; I feel very fortunate to be here.
Paula Iiams
Special Event Coordinator
I started working at Hale Makua in 1999 as a CNA. As a Special Event Coordinator I get to help plan and coordinate special events and functions that support and help to raise funds for Hale Makua. It’s a lifechanging and inspirational experience to work here at Hale Makua.
Danyel Kahiamoe
Housekeeper and Laundry Worker
Hale Makua is a good place to be. Everybody’s friendly, and they try their hardest to do whatever the residents need.
Herina Rudolph, Nora Ganostisi & Nelia Domingo
Kitchen Helper - Cook/Kitchen Helper - Kitchen Helper
Hale Makua...it's great! It's like home here...I feel like I'm cooking in my own home.
Edie Kapoi
Environmental Services Supervisor
I like the atmosphere at Hale Makua. It’s like a family; everyone works together, all the departments with the residents. We’re all one, practicing compassionate caring.
Teresa Lopes
Activities Director
I started working at Hale Makua in 1976. Hale Makua is my life; I have met thousands of residents and families in my many years here. I look forward to each day and coming to work and helping people. My coworkers are very caring and the most compassionate people I know.
Carlayna Nakamura, RN, MS, MPH
Development Director
What I enjoy most about my job is the staff — they are so wonderful — and the residents — they inspire me every day! The generosity of our donors makes all things possible — they help our dreams come true as we care for our residents.
Luisa Ogawa, RN
East Unit Supervisor
Hale Makua made me grow in all aspects of nursing.
Mona Ordono
Nursing Secretary
I started as a secretary with Hale Makua’s Adult Foster Family Program where I enjoyed working with caregivers, clients, & family members. Now I’m a Nursing Secretary. All the staff here are working hard but still find time to have fun with our residents.
Lucy Porte, RNC
Director of Nursing
I have worked at Hale Makua since 1979. I am currently a Certified Gerontological Nurse and a master trainer for Hale Makua’s Compassionate Caring Program. My journey here has been rewarding and satisfying for me. I’m inspired to learn and grow professionally as well as personally.
Angie Saiki, LPN
Licensed Practical Nurse
I give my full service to my residents because of the love I have for them. I give them my heart.
Mabel Sol, CNA
Senior CNA
I consider this my second home and my second family. I appreciate all of the residents’ families. They’re very appreciative of the staff. And the environment here is so nice. We have all the plants and trees, and views of the mountains.
Donna Tabion, BA
Social Services Assistant
I’ve worked in the geriatrics field for many years. It’s challenging and rewarding, and I don’t want to do anything else. I love coming to work everyday!
Veronica Tanner
Senior Housekeeper
Hale Makua has an excellent Day Health Program for people like me, who work and take care of loved ones. I can work, knowing that my mom is being well taken care of and is in a safe and healthy environment. Hale Makua’s motto, “Excellence in Healthcare in Our Home and Yours,” is reflected in the Day Health Program.
Espie Tavares, CNA
Senior CNA
I’ve been working here for many years, and I just love my residents. I love working at Hale Makua.
Hella Theil, RN & David Palen, LPN
Hale Makua has the best residents in the world!
Warren Wong, MD
Medical Director
I am the Medical Director at Hale Makua, and it’s one of my favorite jobs. I’m also Chief of Geriatric Medicine at Kaiser Permanente and Clinical Professor of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Hawaii.