Maunakea, Hawaiʻi – The W. M. Keck Observatory is pleased to announce the appointment of T. Ilihia Gionson as its inaugural Chief Public Affairs Officer, effective February 3, 2024.
In this newly established role, Gionson will lead efforts to enhance mutual understanding, foster collaboration, and strengthen community relations. He will join the Observatory’s Senior Leadership Team, providing guidance and support in outreach, communications, and government affairs.
A native of Hawaiʻi Island, Gionson and his family are deeply committed to community service and are firmly rooted in the island’s culture. His professional and personal endeavors are dedicated to uniting people through shared stories and values. Gionson has an extensive background in journalism, having worked as a writer and producer for local and statewide print and television outlets in both English and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. His experience spans private sector and government public relations at federal, state, and county levels. For over a decade, he led Hiehie Communications, serving clients in renewable energy, government, affordable housing, and hospitality sectors.
As a father, Gionson has focused on initiatives aimed at building a sustainable and equitable future for Hawaiʻi. His work reflects a commitment to service, including roles such as board chair of Hawaiʻi Island United Way and participation in organizations such as Hawaiʻi Green Growth and the ʻĀina Aloha Economic Futures movement. He brings a wealth of experience in strategic communications and has consulted on various issues critical to the state. Most recently, Gionson served as the Public Affairs Officer for the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, where he navigated the evolving landscape of tourism to balance economic objectives with cultural values, natural resource preservation, and community needs.
“Ilihia brings a deeply rooted sense of service and stewardship that are essential in the continuation of our public affairs efforts,” said Keck Observatory Director Rich Matsuda. “As we look ahead, his expertise in strategic communications and community engagement will be invaluable in fostering meaningful dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that our work aligns with the values and aspirations of the people of Hawai‘i. I fully believe his leadership will help us navigate the waters ahead.”
“I’m honored to join Keck Observatory at such a pivotal time for our community. Throughout my life, I have looked up at Maunakea with awe and reverence. The profound calm – kū haʻo i ka mālie – has brought peace to me and my family through some of our most challenging times.” said Gionson. “The discoveries made on Maunakea expand humanity’s understanding of the universe. Equally important is how we engage with the community and ensure that this work is rooted in respect for place, culture, and people. I am looking forward to joining the Keck ʻohana and engaging our Hawaiʻi Island.”
Keck Observatory looks forward to working with Ilihia to strengthen partnerships and shape the future of astronomy. Situated on the sacred summit of Maunakea, the Observatory remains committed to scientific discovery while honoring the deep cultural and environmental significance of this special place.
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ABOUT W. M. KECK OBSERVATORY
The W. M. Keck Observatory telescopes are among the most scientifically productive on Earth. The two 10-meter optical/infrared telescopes atop Maunakea on the Island of Hawaiʻi feature a suite of advanced instruments including imagers, multi-object spectrographs, high-resolution spectrographs, integral-field spectrometers, and world-leading laser guide star adaptive optics systems. Keck Observatory is a private 501(c) 3 non-profit organization operated as a scientific partnership among the California Institute of Technology, the University of California, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The Observatory was made possible by the generous financial support of the W. M. Keck Foundation. We wish to recognize and acknowledge the very significant cultural role and reverence that the summit of Maunakea has always had within the Native Hawaiian community. We are most fortunate to have the opportunity to conduct observations from this mountain. For more information, visit: