Laura Dierenfield departs Kona for Austin, Texas

Queen Lili‘uokalani Trust (QLT) announces the departure of Kona-based 360° Manager Laura Dierenfield, who is relocating to Austin, Texas, to serve as the city’s Active Transportation Program manager.

“I am deeply grateful to the leadership of the Queen Lili‘uokalani Trust for giving me an opportunity to serve the queen’s mission in my hometown of Kona,” Dierenfield said. “I truly believe in the work of the trust and I wish this incredibly talented team all the very, very best for the future.”

Dierenfield was part of the QLT Endowment Group that oversees the trust’s assets, comprised of global investments and 6,400 acres of land on Oahu and Hawaii Island. Proceeds from the endowment serve more than 90,000 orphaned and destitute children and their families each year.

In her new role with the City of Austin, Dierenfield will return to her transportation roots to pursue implementation of the city’s bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, education and encouragement programs.

Prior to joining QLT, Dierenfield was the executive director of the Hawaii Island-based nonprofit organization PATH — People’s Advocacy for Trails Hawaii.

“Laura contributed so much during her tenure with the trust,” said LeeAnn Crabbe, QLT vice president. “We will miss her energy and drive and know she will do amazing work in Austin as she pursues her passion in the transportation field.”

The Queen Lili‘uokalani Trust was established by Hawaii’s last ruling monarch. Her Deed of Trust, executed in 1909, directs the Queen’s lands be used to serve and provide for orphan and destitute children in perpetuity. The core trust assets include some 6,400 acres of land, the majority in Kona.

Outreach to beneficiaries is delivered through the Queen Lili‘uokalani Children’s Center, established in 1933.