Child & Family Service names Dr. Papaliʻi director of West Hawaiʻi programs

Child & Family Service has appointed longtime staff member Dr. Aurora Leikula Papali‘i as director of its West Hawai‘i programs, the nonprofit announced last week.

Papali‘i, who has worked with the organization for more than two decades, will oversee 22 employees and guide strategic planning, program development and community partnerships throughout the region.

Papali‘i holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences from the University of Hawai‘i–West O‘ahu, a master’s degree in counseling, and a doctorate in counseling education and supervision from Saybrook University.

She also is a 2024 graduate of the Howard Garval Leadership Academy.

Throughout her career, Papali‘i has focused on supporting families, advocating for survivors of domestic violence, and mentoring emerging community leaders. She serves on the Ho‘omalu Hia advisory council for the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma and has received multiple honors, including the Purple Ribbon Award and the Star Advocate Award in 2020.

Child & Family Service leaders said Papali‘i’s experience and deep ties to West Hawai‘i will strengthen the organization’s ability to meet evolving community needs.