Aloha Friends,
We are thrilled to announce that Melanie Rule, a seasoned healthcare professional with over 15 years of dedicated experience, has been appointed as the new President and CEO of Malama Pono Health Services.
Melanie built a distinguished career with Summa Health Systems in Akron, Ohio, where she most recently served as the Director of Medical Education, leading over 20 training programs. Drawn to Malama Pono’s rich history of community engagement and service, she is eager to further our work fostering women’s wellness, LGBTQ care, and serving those in need on Kauai. Melanie’s commitment to this work is exemplified by her role spearheading Summa’s inaugural LGBTQ Educational Summit, where she pioneered inclusive practices.
A Kauai resident since 2021, Melanie has developed a deep connection to our community and feels at home with Malama Pono. Guided by her “mama bear” heart, Melanie’s daily philosophy is that “ally is a verb,” a belief that aligns perfectly with the values of Malama Pono.
Beyond her professional achievements, Melanie cherishes her personal life. She has been married to her best friend, Mike, for 25 years, and they have three children. Melanie finds joy in family moments and enjoys hobbies such as writing, snorkeling along Kauai’s vibrant reefs, and losing herself in books. She is also actively involved with Kauai SPCA and is passionately engaged in animal rescue efforts.
Please join us in welcoming Melanie Rule to Malama Pono Health Services! We are confident that under her leadership, our organization will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact on our community.
With Aloha,
I’m So Happy to Join Malama Pono!
Aloha Malama Pono Ohana,
I am incredibly thrilled to embark on this new adventure with Malama Pono. As a small-town girl, Kauai felt like home the minute I arrived three years ago. Growing up in a town with one stop light, I have always cherished a close-knit community. My summers were spent swimming in Lake Erie, and the water has always been my happy place and a way of life in our family.
When I discovered this amazing opportunity with Malama Pono, I felt an immediate connection. Combining my healthcare background with my passion for community service felt like a perfect fit. Our shared values and goals made this role feel meant to be. I am eager to contribute to the community that I call home, build lasting relationships, and give back the generosity that I’ve experienced.
My husband and I are entering our empty nest era, an exciting time for us to dive deeper into our own interests. When he is not working at his contracting job, we love taking walks, snorkeling, eat amazing local foods, and playing with our four rescue fur babies.
I look forward to this next chapter with Malama Pono. With an amazing team already in place, I am confident we have a bright future ahead, thanks to the wonderful community surrounding us.
With Aloha,
Melanie Rule,
President & CEO Malama Pono Health Services