Elizabeth Fien Named FHVNP Executive Director

Elizabeth Fien has been selected as the Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Executive Director.

In her role as executive director, Fien will be in charge of the implementation and oversight of all aspects of the nonprofit group’s operation. These responsibilities include conservation, stewardship, development, external relations, governance, and general management. Fien will also spearhead the organization as it prepares for the celebration of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park’s 100^th anniversary in 2016.

The position was previously non-existent. Prior to Fien’s appointment, FHVNP was managed by an all-volunteer board of directors.

Fien has been part of the FHVNP organization since 2012 and has served as Education & Development Coordinator, as well as Director of Development. During her time with the organization, Fien has doubled the organization’s income, obtained over $140,000 in grants, and helped to perform a partnership with the Volcano House Hotel to provide educational tours of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Additionally, Fien has made efforts to establish significant financial support from the Geist Foundation and several other foundations for the park’s Youth Ranger Internship Program.

With a 20-year track record of successful leadership, management and fundraising, Fien brings an array of positive attributes to the organization. Early in her career, Fien worked in legal health care management with Rocky Mountain Health Care Corporation in Denver. When she moved to Hawai’i in 1995, she worked with as a non-profit consultant raising funds for Bridge House, Friends of Waimanalo Library, and the Waimanalo Health Center, where she severed as Board President from 2007-2009.

“I am humbled and honored to help lead and collaborate on the important work that lies ahead for the Friends- an organization that has made such a different to all of us who love Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and this part of Hawai’i,” Fien said. “With ambitious goals to engage more youth in the park, balance the visitor experience and use with resource protection, and strengthen community involvement and support, the Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is an exciting place to be as we approach the park’s centennial.”

Fien is a 20-year resident of Hawai’i, six of which has been spent in Volcano. In addition to her high level professional strides, she has a deep passion for Hawai’i youth, geography, and conservation. She has been a foster parent in Hawai’i for 17 years and has adopted two children.

FHVNP is an independent non-profit organization located in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park with the mission to support the National Park Service in the protection, preservation, and interpretation of the natural and cultural resources at the park for the enjoyment of current and future generations.