HI HR25

Honors and commends Melody Kapilialoha MacKenzie as the 2020 Native Hawaiian Caucus Outstanding Kupuna.

Recognizes MacKenzie as a Professor of Law and Founding Director of Ka Huli Ao Center for Excellence in Native Hawaiian Law.

Acknowledges her career including work with the Native American Rights Fund as an undergraduate, graduation from William S. Richardson School of Law in 1976, and service with the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation starting in 1980.

Notes her establishment and service as president of the Native Hawaiian Bar Association in 1992, teaching of Native Hawaiian Rights and Federal Indian Law courses, and publications on ceded lands, Hawaiian Homes, sovereignty, and Native Hawaiian rights.

Recognizes her numerous awards including the 'Ahahui o Hawaii Award for Excellence, University of Hawaii's Regents Medal for Excellence in Teaching, Law School Outstanding Professor of the Year, YWCA Leadership Award, and Hawaii Women Lawyers Lifetime Achievement Award.