An alumna of the College of Business, Economics and Accountancy (CBEA) was recognized by Hawaii Governor David Ige as one of the model employees of Hawaii for 2018.

Armi Barbara Castillo-Cabulisan was one of the 54 most outstanding employees of the State who were awarded in a special ceremony last May 23. The Governor’s Award was designed for employees from the state Executive Branch, managers and/or supervisors who exemplify the highest caliber of public service and dedication in serving the people of Hawaii.

“I thank God for the honor,” Cabulisan said in her email sent to the Office for Strategic Communication (StratCom), adding that she is forever grateful and proud to represent MMSU wherever she goes and whatever she does.

Cabulisan said she has a very rewarding career in Hawaii, and “I achieved this because of what MMSU have instilled in me.” 

She was among the 16 supervisors and managers, 19 individual employees, and 19 groups who received the awards, who were carefully chosen by a volunteer selection committee of five prominent community members from various reputable departments, branches, and offices in Hawaii.
    

Cabulisan finished BS Accountancy as cum laude and became a licensed certified public accountant in 2001. She currently works as an accountant supervisor under the Fiscal-Accounting Office of the Department of Agriculture in Hawaii.

Having learned that the State of Hawaii would recognize its model employees on this year for their exceptional services to the public, the director of the Department of Agriculture saw fit to nominate Cabulisan for the award.

“This employee has made significant roles to improve the government services of the State. She has been selflessly committed to satisfy the people she serves, thus making the State of Hawaii of the United States of America a special place to live and work,” the nomination stated.

Being a good leader, Cabulisan  inspires her officemates to work independently and productively and to become resilient in times of difficulties. These work attitudes have helped her department to exhibit sterling performance and provide best services for their clients.

Cabulisan initiated the implementation of federal financial reporting procedure project, and submission of Comprehensive Annual Financial Information (CAFR) and the State Single Audit (SEFA) the earliest possible time, which made the DA as the only unit with no salary overpayments from October 2016 up to present.

“These initiatives have increased our office’s productivity, saved cost and time, and enhanced its processes,” she said, adding that her colleagues, some State of Hawaii officials and even the Governor, have been lauding her for the innovations she has infused.

“We always receive congratulatory emails from some officials from the executive department when our team accomplishes something. These will never be possible without synergy and commitment,” she added.

Anent to this, she said she will continue to inspire her colleagues by sharing her practices, expertise, and good work attitude to them – factors that made her shine above the others.

Armi Barbara is married to John Cabulisan, a graduate of BS Civil Engineering from MMSU-COE, and they are blessed with two kids, Jasmin Anikka, 10; and Johan Miguel, 7.