LIHUE — A two-day series of open houses that wrapped up with Friday lunch celebrated the retirement of Renae Hamilton-Cambeilh, and the welcoming of Cheryl Lum as the new YWCA executive director.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as YWCA’s executive director, working alongside an incredible team and community committed to making our island a safer, more compassionate place,” said Hamilton-Cambeilh. “Cheryl is a longtime Kauai resident with deep roots in service, and a true passion for our mission. With you leadership, I have no doubt that YWCA of Kauai will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact.”
The YWCA Kauai is looking at a new era with the appointment of Lum who brings a BA in Social Work from San Francisco State University, and a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. She has dedicated her career to supporting survivors of violence, individuals with developmental disabilities, at-risk youth, and those navigating the criminal justice system.
Her leadership extends beyond social services. She has served as board president of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce, and as an appointed commissioner for the Kauai Charter Review Commission, championing workforce development and professional education. More recently, Lum directed a national home care and behavioral health agency on Kauai, ensuring essential services reached those most in need. She was also employed with the Kauai Community College at the Office of Continuing Education and Training and Workforce Development.
As she steps into her new role, Lum brings a deep understanding of community needs, a passion for advocacy, and a commitment to continuing YWCA Kauai’s legacy of empowerment, according to a press release.
“I am honored to join the YWCA Kauai ohana and build on the incredible work that has been done over the years,” Lum said. “Together, we will continue to stand up for survivors, empower women and families, and create meaningful change in our community.”
The release also said that Hamilton-Cambeilh leaves after nearly three decades of transformative leadership, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy, empowerment, and unwavering dedication to survivors of violence.
For more than 28 years, Hamilton-Cambeilh led the YWCA Kauai with a vision for a safer, more equitable community. Under her leadership, the organization expanded critical services for survivors, advanced women’s empowerment initiatives, and strengthened its role as a pillar of support for families across the island.
For more information, visit the YWCA Kauai website at www.ywcakauai.org.
1984. My initial training as a crisis worker 40 years ago with the YWCA will no doubt flourish even more with Ms, Lum. Wishing her much success in her newest challenge.