Mauna ‘Ala, known as the fragrant hills, is the Royal Mausoleum established in 1865. It serves as the final resting place for the ruling monarchs of the Kingdom of Hawai‘i and is a revered state monument and culturally significant wahi pana. The remains of the Kamehameha and Kalākaua Dynasties, their families, and close advisors are entombed here.
The selection of a new curator for this unique state employee position required careful consideration of the significant historical, cultural, and practical duties involved. An interview panel conducted an extensive selection process that included two rounds of interviews with selected applicants. Each applicant brought diverse and exceptional qualities to the table. After all interviews were completed, the selection committee visited Mauna ‘Ala and walked its grounds seeking guidance before making its decision.
DLNR Chair Dawn Chang said, “It was Doni’s balance of experiences, perspectives, and cultural connections to Mauna ‘Ala, as well as her keen understanding of the unique and varied role of the curator position that set her apart.”
Ensuring the sanctity of Mauna ‘Ala is paramount through honoring and conducting protocols, interacting with visitors, civic clubs and organizations that come to honor the iwi kūpuna as Kahu. Equally important are caretaker responsibilities including maintenance of the grounds and landscape, managing special use permits issuance and keeping reports on repair needs and patronage numbers.
“Doni radiated genuine humility and gratitude for the opportunity to serve and care for the Ali‘i, visiting Mauna ‘Ala to pule with her ‘ohana before accepting the position,” Chang added.
DLNR Division of State Parks Administrator Curt Cottrell said: “We greatly appreciate Doni’s willingness to serve at the Royal Mausoleum State Monument and to assume responsibility for maintaining the sanctity of its grounds. She has demonstrated detailed knowledge of Mauna ‘Ala, its grounds and the code of conduct expected of staff and visitors, and an understanding of the efforts needed to preserve the site and to support people visiting Mauna ‘Ala to honor the royal families.”