Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui names Dr. Kari Luna Nunokawa as Chief Executive Officer

Boys & Girls Clubs of Maui (BGCM) today announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously selected Dr. Kari Luna Nunokawa as the organization’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective Sept. 15. The appointment follows a several-month search conducted with support from Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s CEO Search Team and a Board-appointed search committee.

Nunokawa is a seasoned educator and executive leader dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families and building resilient communities. She holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Her career has included senior leadership roles with Maui Economic Development Board, Maui United Way and the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College.

Her background spans educational leadership, counseling, trauma-informed care, strategic planning, high-impact program development, fundraising and wraparound support services that help young people thrive academically, emotionally and socially.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to build on Kelly’s legacy and join a team that has earned the trust of Maui Nui’s young people and families. My first priority will be to listen and learn from Club members, staff, families, Board members and community partners, while working together to strengthen programs, deepen partnerships and create even more opportunities for Maui’s youth,” said Nunokawa.

Nunokawa succeeds Kelly Maluo-Pearson, who concluded her CEO tenure on Sept. 4 after nearly three decades of service. Maluo-Pearson will remain engaged as a Strategic Advisor during a six-month transition period, supporting institutional knowledge transfer, selected strategic priorities and continuity in key relationships.

“BGCM is strong because of the people who believe in this mission and show up for our young people every day. I am confident Kari will lead with care, courage and a deep commitment to Maui County’s youth. I look forward to supporting a thoughtful transition and remaining one of the organization’s biggest champions,” said Maluo-Pearson The Board has established interim executive and signing authority for the brief period before Nunokawa begins, ensuring continuity of operations, programs and services.

“Kari begins with the full confidence of the Board. Her experience in education, mental health, nonprofit leadership and community partnership development aligns strongly with BGCM’s mission and the needs of Maui County’s families. We believe she is the right leader to honor the organization’s foundation while guiding its next chapter of impact,” said Karey Kapoi, Board Chairperson.