Sergeant and Senior Investigator Alberta J. K. Pukahi of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s campus security and emergency management department was recognized as one of Hawaiʻi’s Top Cops. The award is presented annually to law enforcement and security professionals who have gone beyond the call of duty and met the highest standards of their field.
A 24-year veteran of Mānoa’s campus security unit, Pukahi led a special task force to prevent further burglaries at cash-handling locations on campus and has worked closely with the Women’s Center, judicial office and student affairs on sexual assault cases.
“Sergeant Pukahi has a special ability to patiently gain the trust of the most reluctant victims and, because of her close rapport with them, solve incidents,” said Campus Security Chief Wayne K. Ogino.
Pukahi serves as a role model and takes special interest in mentoring her fellow female officers, as well as training her male counterparts to be more aware of their role as campus peacemakers and problem-solvers. She has served as an instructor in a variety of programs, including LGBT safe zone awareness, domestic non-violence and first aid.
“It’s all about making a positive change on campus,” said Pukahi.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration from the . She is an active member of community organizations including the National Coalition Building Institute and the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation.
Pukahi and other 2011 Top Cops will be honored at the Law Enforcement and Security Appreciation Luncheon on October 27, 2011 in the Mānoa Grand Ballroom at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi.