For University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Shidler College of Business alumna Brandy Shimabukuro, even the best-planned day can change in a minute. She may begin her morning focused on social media strategy, media relations or executive communications, only to shift gears when a cruelty case, emergency response or sudden influx of animals takes precedence. In those moments, her work becomes more than messaging. It becomes a way to build trust, inspire action and help animals across Oʻahu find care, safety and, ideally, a loving home.
As director of communications and marketing at the Hawaiian Humane Society, Shimabukuro leads work across social media, graphic design, website management, media relations, crisis response and strategic campaigns for pets who are harder to place. The role blends storytelling, strategy and care in service of animals and the community.
One of her most impactful campaigns was the opening of the Kosasa Family Campus at Hoʻopili, a five-acre property with a 27,000-square-foot shelter dedicated to the behavioral, medical and socialization needs of thousands of animals each year.
Bringing ‘work’ home
Shimabukuro says one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is the part she often takes home: fostering. Through the organization’s Itty Bitty Kitty Committee, she volunteers with neonatal kittens that require around-the-clock care. Her community engagement team has also fostered nearly 40 dogs and cats in the office, giving pets who struggle in the shelter environment a calmer place to decompress. For Shimabukuro, watching those animals grow, heal and come out of their shells is when she feels closest to the organization’s mission.
One of the most difficult aspects of her job is communicating the complexity of animal welfare with honesty and empathy. Shimabukuro’s approach is grounded in listening, transparency and trust, especially when issues are emotional or difficult to explain.
“The most meaningful measure of success, for me, is whether the work we do changes what’s possible for the animals in our care and the community we serve,” Shimabukuro said.
Looking back, Shimabukuro credits Shidler College not only for the business foundation that shaped her career, but also for the relationships and leadership experiences that stayed with her long after graduation. Her advice to students is simple: show up, get involved, take ownership and stay connected.
For the entire story and more stories like this, see the spring/summer 2026 edition of Shidler Business.
