EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Born in Tokyo, Japan, Karin grew up overseas and lived in 4 countries before graduating high school. From a young age she loved the beach, snorkeling, and eventually scuba diving; and the ocean became a life long passion. She has B.S. in Biology - Marine Emphasis from Western Washington University. After graduating in 2014, Karin moved to Hawaii in search of more sun and warmer waters.

Karin believes that place-based conservation that honors traditional knowledge is a key component in building towards a sustainable future. Conservation is not just about resources, but about people. Karin hopes for Kipuka Olowalu to be a place where people can restore their connection to the environment, and are inspired to carry that connectivity into other areas of their lives. She loves spending time underwater, hula, hiking, and paddling. When not working or in the ocean she can be found spending time with her husband, tending to the garden and chickens, or snuggling with their cat, Kevin.