Jill Kuramoto
Honolulu,HI
Summary
Dynamic communications leader with a proven track record at KHON-TV, excelling in strategic communications and cultural advocacy. Renowned for producing award-winning content that elevates community engagement and fosters public trust. Adept in crisis communication and organizational leadership, driving impactful storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager, News and Content
KHON-TV
Honolulu, HI
10.2022 - Current
- Oversee the editorial vision and operational management of newsroom teams, ensuring the delivery of impactful, culturally relevant, and community-centered content across broadcast and digital platforms.
- Spearhead the production of special statewide projects spotlighting issues of civic, cultural, and social importance.
- Lead logistical coordination and storytelling strategies for high-impact coverage, elevating public awareness on key community issues.
- Direct KHON2’s iconic Action Line, advocating for community members by resolving public concerns, and fostering transparency.
- Mentor and lead newsroom personnel to foster innovation, journalistic integrity, and audience trust.
Commissioner | Project Coordinator, The Mod Gala
State Foundation on Culture and the Arts
Honolulu, HI
05.2022 - Current
- Appointed Commissioner for Hawai‘i’s premier cultural policy agency advising on cultural access, advocacy, and engagement.
- Project Coordinator for the inaugural, sold-out MOD Gala, a fundraiser celebrating the intersections of fine art, fashion, food, and music.
- Collaborated with artists, designers, and community stakeholders to curate an immersive experience highlighting Hawai‘i’s creative economy and cultural vitality.
- Fostered public-private partnerships, media coverage, and sponsorships, strengthening SFCA’s role as a catalyst for community enrichment of the arts
Chief Communications Officer / Reporter / Producer
RKT Media Hawaii
Honolulu, HI
06.2018 - 10.2022
- Directed content strategy and production for diverse public and private sector partners.
- Produced award-winning multimedia projects that promoted social impact and civic engagement.
- Developed storytelling campaigns to enhance cultural narratives and support local businesses.
Associate
Pineapple Tweed Public Relations & Marketing
Honolulu, HI
06.2018 - 10.2022
- Executed strategic communications and brand positioning for clients in arts, architecture, hospitality, and lifestyle sectors.
- Formulated event strategies to boost community engagement and cultural tourism visibility.
- Provided crisis management strategies to effectively address client challenges.
Communications Director
Hawaii State Senate
Honolulu, HI
01.2015 - 06.2018
- Directed communications for 25 senators, enhancing crisis response and community outreach initiatives.
- Strengthened constituent connections through culturally sensitive messaging and effective digital strategies.
- Led public engagement efforts to foster transparency and accessibility in governance.
Chief Communications Officer
Honolulu Board Of Water Supply
Honolulu, HI
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Ensured transparency and public trust during critical infrastructure projects through effective communication management.
- Engaged with diverse communities and advocacy groups as primary public-facing representative.
- Collaborated with graphic designers and web developers to enhance multimedia production and online presence.
Anchor /News Reporter
KITV Island News
Honolulu, HI
10.1992 - 12.2013
- Delivered trusted, community-focused news as an award-winning journalist and anchor.
- Covered significant cultural, civic, and social stories affecting Hawai‘i's diverse communities.
- Established strong relationships with community leaders, artists, and civic organizations.
Education
Master of Science - Public Relations
Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT08-2021
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA06-1990
Skills
- Strategic communications and cultural advocacy
- Public relations and media engagement
- Event management and community outreach
- Content creation and storytelling
- Organizational leadership and team management
- Government relations and civic engagement
- Crisis communication strategies
- Digital strategy and multimedia production
Accomplishments
- Telly Award Winner (2021, 2022)
- Society of Professional Journalists – Excellence in Journalism
- Outstanding Child Advocate of the Year, Media (2003)
COMMUNITY & CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
- Commissioner, State Foundation on Culture and the Arts
- Selection Committee, Living Treasures of Hawai‘i
- Vice President, Asian American Journalists Association Hawaii Chapter
- Member, Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii
- Member, Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
Timeline
Manager, News and Content
KHON-TV
10.2022 - Current
Commissioner | Project Coordinator, The Mod Gala
State Foundation on Culture and the Arts
05.2022 - Current
Chief Communications Officer / Reporter / Producer
RKT Media Hawaii
06.2018 - 10.2022
Associate
Pineapple Tweed Public Relations & Marketing
06.2018 - 10.2022
Communications Director
Hawaii State Senate
01.2015 - 06.2018
Chief Communications Officer
Honolulu Board Of Water Supply
01.2014 - 01.2015
Anchor /News Reporter
KITV Island News
10.1992 - 12.2013
Master of Science - Public Relations
Quinnipiac University
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
San Diego State University
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