David Kawada, an experienced leader of non-profit organizations, has been hired as president of ʻAhahui Koa Ānuenue (AKA) and executive director of the Nā Koa Football Club. ʻAhahui Koa Ānuenue is the official fundraising arm of University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Athletics and the Nā Koa Football Club is the official booster club of the Rainbow Warriors football team. He begins his position on June 27.
Kawada replaces Kim Fujiuchi, who served in the dual role for the past six years, and as Nā Koa executive director for 11 years.
“We’re excited that David will be leading our fundraising efforts,” Athletics Director David Matlin said. “His experience with non-profits make him an ideal fit for our department and is someone we believe can jump start our football fundraising with new Head Coach Timmy Chang. David is a familiar face for many of our coaches and staff, with his involvement with ESPN Honolulu, and we’re thrilled to have him a part of our team.”
Kawada was the radio voice of Rainbow Wahine basketball as play-by-play announcer since 2010. He also hosted various shows on ESPN Honolulu including In Focus with Dave Kawada and The Brotherhood: Pride, Tradition, & Excellence.
“It is truly an honor to be able to work with the great people that serve on the Boards of ʻAhahui Koa Ānuenue and Nā Koa,” Kawada said. “University of Hawaiʻi Athletics is truly a pillar of pride and unity for all of us in this state. My goal is to continue to support the efforts to keep our Athletics Department and university thriving and moving forward. Thank you to David Matlin, AKA incoming Chairperson Sean Sugai, and Nā Koa President Claire Tong, for this great opportunity.”
Most recently, Kawada was the director for the Kroc Center Hawaiʻi, where he oversaw the daily operations of the multi-functional community center with a staff of 225 employees and nearly $10 million operating budget.
