ANDREW AOKI

What this episode covers

“If there’s one thing we know how to do, that’s apply to schools.” Andrew Aoki speaks candidly about his extensive educational background, having studied in top universities including Harvard, Stanford, and University of Michigan. But despite his broad educational experience, Aoki chose to serve the public. He is a co-founder of 3-Point Consulting, which works with community-based organizations in their business strategic planning, combining their social mission with business reality of staying financially viable. In addition, he co-founded College Connections Hawaii, an education consultancy firm focusing on providing educational information, accessibility and counseling to children and families. Greater Good Radio welcomes Andrew Aoki, a man of true simplicity and contentment. He says, “Think really deeply of what’s important in your life and make your life reflect that. If you’re clear about what you want and not want too much, you can be pretty happy on all fronts.” And when asked about how he views social entrepreneurship, he answers, “Not only would I recommend that, I feel that we have an obligation to do that I mean if our society is going to get better and if you have young kids and if you think about the world they’re going to live in years from now. If you want them to live in a place that’s safe and bring out the full quality of their life, you have to invest now.” In this interview, Aoki talks about public service as a genuine calling in his life. Listen to the main interview and aftershow to find out more about how he handles a life dedicated to serving other people. Some questions asked: BIO: ANDREW H. AOKI PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 2002 – present 3Point Consulting, LLC (www.3pointconsulting.com) Honolulu, HI Principal and Co-founder Founded public interest research and consulting firm. Provide a full range of services to government, corporations, non-profit organizations, special projects, community groups, and others. 1999 – 2005 College Connections Hawai‘i, Inc. (www.collegeconnections.org) Honolulu, HI Co-founder and Director of Operations Founded nonprofit educational firm to improve educational opportunities throughout Hawai‘i. Jointly oversaw all aspects including statewide operations, financial strategy, board of directors, development, staff supervision and community relations. Provided college entrance workshops, college advising, tutoring, and low-cost test preparation classes to thousands of students in communities with traditionally limited access. 2000 – 2002 HMSA Foundation Honolulu, HI Executive Administrator Oversaw $1.2 million annual grant making program to positively impact health in Hawai‘i. Designed and directed the Hawai‘i Uninsured Project – a statewide effort to reduce the number of uninsured people in Hawai‘i. 1999 – 2000 YMCA of Honolulu, Atherton Branch Honolulu, HI YouthMapping Project Director Supervised program director and other staff in statewide asset mapping project. Implemented youth leadership and community development programs in diverse communities across the state through collaboration with numerous service organizations. Planned and conducted most successful fundraising campaign in branch history. 1997 – 1998 State of Hawai‘i, Office of the Auditor Honolulu, HI Analyst Planned and conducted performance audits of state agencies including the departments of education, health, and business, economic development and tourism. Researched background materials, interviewed agency personnel, designed and implemented surveys, analyzed financial and organizational issues, wrote and edited audits. 1993 The Honorable Neil Abercrombie, U.S. Representative Honolulu, HI Intern, Honolulu District Office