A legacy of thinking bigger, doing be er, and always pu ing people first. That’s the Kelvin Taketa we’ve worked with for two decades. Here are some favorite reflections from staff at HCF: You remind us to put people first, to never put ourselves above others. • You’ve shown me what it means to be a leader. • You told me I needed to ‘find my voice,’ and that I’d be delivering the speech instead of you. Then you took me to the bar for a shot of whiskey! • You inspire us to take risks, to have fun, to think bigger, and to do better. • From you, I’ve learned visionaries aren’t afraid to make mistakes. • Don’t think small! • After-party conversations last long into the night, discussing big issues and possible solutions — good times, and good work. • Vision is worthless if you cannot communicate it in a meaningful way! • The morning of 9/11, you called us into the conference room and read a brief statement. You were very emotional. Because of you, I felt it was okay to feel this way at work — shocked, sad, and outraged. I went home and held my baby close. But you and others went right back to work, figuring out how HCF could help. I knew right then I wanted to work in a place that cares so much and has the leadership and capability to do something in the face of such horror. • Your legacy to me includes my adopted daughter because of the recommendation you sent on my behalf. • Vision is bold and brave. • I love how you encourage us to step up, do the work, and even if we fail, you give us mad props for trying. • On so many occasions, I see your eyes light up when you speak about your family and you talk to us about ours. You’ve shown us the importance of balance with work and family. • I was the newbie picking you up at the airport and I was an hour late! When we reached the highway and you saw the traffic, you called the office and said ‘Forget that meeting! We’re hitting the first bar!’ I exhaled and knew it’d be okay. Thanks for your grace! • I remember the time you told me ‘Look out for that truck!’
•
You crashed my 1st
anniversary dinner by chatting with my wife and me, and then sending over a bottle of champagne. She didn’t talk about us and our future. She talked about you and what a classy gentleman you are and that’s how men should behave. Thanks Kelvin! • Remember when you told me to read the &#@&ing tea leaves and get my head on straight!?! You have given me the gift of genuine friendship. • To me, you are the mad scientist whose brain never stops and who comes up with these crazy, innovative, forward thinking ideas, and then sets high expectations so we make it happen.
for the inspiration, lessons learned, and lots of good times.