HSGA Appoints Alan Akaka As Honorary Director Emeritus

April 9, 2026 • Christo Ruppenthal • News

In March of 2026, the Board of Directors of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association approved the appointment of Alan Akaka as an honorary Director Emeritus. HSGA Board member Michael Williams (seen here with Alan) presented Alan with a certificate memorializing his appointment on April 4^th at the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Festival at Ka Makana Ali‘i in Kapolei. Alan joins Jerry Byrd as the second person to be honored as Director Emeritus, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to HSGA and the greater Hawaiian steel guitar community.

Alan's leadership as a past board member and President helped guide the Association through important chapters in its history. And his continued involvement has remained a source of inspiration, knowledge, and cultural understanding for all of us. He has given so generously of his time, talent, and spirit of Aloha as a featured performer, accompanist, teacher, Kanikapila leader, or workshop presenter over the years.

I have witnessed firsthand the respect and admiration he commands, not only for his musical artistry but also for his humility, kindness, and commitment to preserving and sharing this cherished tradition. He has inspired generations of musicians and helped ensure that the voice of the Hawaiian steel guitar continues to be heard and celebrated around the world.

It is for these reasons and so many more that the Board unanimously voted to confer upon him the honorary title of Director Emeritus, along with lifetime membership in the Association.

It is a privilege to recognize Alan in this way and to celebrate all that he has given to our community. I wanted to share this news with all current and past members so you can all join me in congratulating and thanking Alan for all he has done for us and the steel guitar.

Mahalo Alan!

Christo Ruppenthal is the president of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association.