Dawn Hao-de Motta

Dawn Hao-De Motta serves as the Human Resources Manager at W. M. Keck Observatory, where she is honored to support people and purpose through thoughtful and grounded HR practices. With over two decades of experience in the HR profession, along with six and a half years of service in the U.S. Army, Dawn brings a broad and practical perspective shaped by her work in healthcare, education, government, and both nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

Before joining Keck Observatory in 2023, Dawn served as Chief Human Resources Officer at Hilo (Benioff) Medical Center, where she led HR strategy and operations during one of the most critical periods in recent healthcare history. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was grounded in compassion, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of staff and patients. Across her career, Dawn has helped organizations navigate complex change, strengthen workforce capacity, and foster inclusive, values-aligned cultures.

Dawn’s approach to leadership is rooted in active listening, mutual respect, and a deep commitment to service. Whether supporting performance development, guiding organizational change, or mentoring others, she leads with intention and strives to create space for others to thrive. She sees HR not simply as a function, but as a vital way to foster belonging, clarity, and thoughtful stewardship of the employee experience.

Born on Oʻahu and raised on Hawaiʻi Island, Dawn draws on her island roots and military discipline to live and lead with aloha, haʻahaʻa (humility), and mālama (care). She remains connected to her community through service on the Board of the YWCA of Hawaiʻi Island and by mentoring emerging HR professionals and teaching in SHRM Hawaiʻi’s certification program.