KAILUA-KONA, HI – Hawai‘i Community Federal Credit Union (HCFCU) is proud to recognize its 2025 Employee of the Year and celebrate team members and volunteers who have reached milestone years of service.
Each year, HCFCU employees nominate a coworker who reflects the values of the credit union through accountability, integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to service.
The 2025 Employee of the Year is Joshua Awa of the Kailua Branch.
Joshua is known as a steady and trusted leader, especially during one of the organization’s most critical periods. He played a key role throughout the system upgrade and in the work that followed, helping guide his team through the change with consistency and care. His operational knowledge and attention to compliance have made him a go-to resource across departments.
He leads with patience, respect, and a commitment to both staff and members. Under his leadership, his team has seen meaningful improvements in morale, performance, and retention. He takes time to mentor others, support training efforts, and step in wherever he is needed.
“Joshua leads in a way that builds trust and brings people together,” said HCFCU President and CEO Tricia Buskirk. “He shows up for his team, supports the organization, and carries our values in the work he does every day. We’re proud to recognize him.”
In addition to the Employee of the Year, HCFCU recognized employees and volunteers for their years of dedicated service. Jason Ayers was honored for 25 years with the credit union.
Robyn Naihe and Davelynn Esperanza each reached 20 years of service, while Kristy Akao and Tricia Buskirk were recognized for 15 years. Pia Salvador, Charlie Paranial, and Tad Matsubara each marked 10 years with HCFCU. Five-year service awards were presented to Jack Rude, April Hartling, Michelle Teinauri, Ellienne Alonzo, Oliveth Ancheta, and Jaslynne Kanoeau. Volunteers Cheryl Weaver and Sharon Sakai were also recognized for five years of service.
“These milestones speak to the kind of people we have at HCFCU,” Buskirk said. “We’re grateful for the time, care, and commitment each of these individuals brings to our members and our community.”
About Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union
Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union (HCFCU) is a not-for-profit, federally insured financial institution proudly serving the Hawai‘i Island community. With branches in Hilo, Honoka‘a, Kailua-Kona, Kaloko, Kealakekua, and Kohala, HCFCU provides trusted financial solutions tailored to local needs. The credit union also partners with schools, operating Student Credit Unions at Hilo, Honokaʻa, Kealakehe, Kohala, and Konawaena High Schools.
Our team of service-minded financial professionals offers a full range of services, including mortgage, land, construction, small business, education, personal, and auto loans, as well as checking and savings accounts, drive-up tellers, and rewarding credit and debit card programs. With online and mobile banking, investment services, and youth programs, HCFCU is committed to helping members achieve their financial goals.
Beyond financial services, HCFCU proudly supports nonprofit organizations and community events across Hawaii Island. Membership is open to all Hawaii Island residents.
For more information, visit
www.hicommfcu.com.
Joshua Awa, HCFCU 2025 Employee of the Year
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KAILUA-KONA, HI – Hawai‘i Community Federal Credit Union (HCFCU) is proud to recognize its 2025 Employee of the Year and celebrate team members and volunteers who have reached milestone years of service.