Hawaii Tourism Authority announces new members of its Board of Directors

Sigmund “Sig” Zane is a keiki o ka aina, a child of Hawaii, cultural practitioner, educator and one of the founders of iconic fashion apparel brand Sig Zane Designs which he and his wife Nalani Kanakaole opened in 1985 in Hilo on the island of Hawaii. From the earliest years, the ocean was Zane’s playground, learning to surf in Waikiki. Zane graduated from Roosevelt High School on Oahu and attended Hilo Community College and the University of Hawaii at Hilo on Hawaii Island.

Downing’s term ends on June 30, 2022. Ching’s and Zane’s terms end on June 30, 2024. The three replace outgoing HTA board members Rick Fried, Kelly Sanders, and Kuuipo Kumukahi. Senators today also confirmed HTA board members David Arakawa and Sherry Menor-McNamara for another term.

“My gratitude is extended to Kuuipo, Kelly, and Rick for their service to HTA and to the people of Hawaii; while I’m energized by the extended board terms that have been granted to Sherry and David,” said De Fries.

HTA’s Board of Directors is a policy-making entity comprised of 12 members, who serve as volunteers and meet monthly to guide the agency’s work on behalf of the State of Hawaii. Board approval is required for key HTA functions and initiatives, including its annual budget and annual marketing plan, which includes funding support of community programs.

The new board members will take part in HTA’s upcoming Board of Directors meeting, which is scheduled for Thursday, April 29.