Mary Miho Finley, a graduate of UH-Hilo, with a Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology, returns to VAC after a hiatus of many years. Mary, a long time resident of Volcano, was employed as the VAC Program Director from 1988-89. Since that time, Mary has worked in government agencies and the nonprofit sector carrying out programs of economic self-sufficiency, cultural tourism and community-based economic development and sustainability. Most recently she was employed with Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council where she administered housing, energy and economic literacy and employment programs for needy families. In 2004, Mary was the Legislative Aide to Senator Russell Kokubun and has extensive knowledge of rural planning, disaster planning, housing and community issues. She is currently the Vice President of Hilo Habitat for Humanity’s Board of Directors and East Hawaii AHA Coalition to prevent child abuse. She also serves on the “Make a Difference” coalition of social service and community partners, serving disadvantaged, minority populations.