East-West Center Appoints Jaimee Neel As Deputy Director Of The Pacific Islands Development Program (original) (raw)
The East-West Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Jaimee Neel as Deputy Director of the Pacific Islands Development Program (PIDP).
Jaimee joins PIDP at a pivotal moment for the region. As the Center builds on the momentum from the Pacific Agenda: Investment, Security, and Shared Prosperity Summit and looks ahead to the Pacific Islands Forum, she will help advance the program’s effort to strengthen regional partnerships, support Pacific-led priorities, and foster dialogue on the issues shaping the region's future.
Jaimee Neel (Photo/Supplied)
Born in Kahuku, Hawaii, Jaimee is proud of her Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, and Scottish heritage. She brings more than 20 years of experience in international affairs, diplomacy, education, and strategic partnership development. A former US diplomat, she has served in leadership roles across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and South America, building partnerships among governments, universities, civil society organizations, and local communities to advance diplomacy, education, governance, and cross-cultural understanding.
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"We are delighted to welcome Jaimee to PIDP," said Henry Puna, Interim Director of the Pacific Islands Development Program and former Prime Minister of the Cook Islands. "She brings extensive international experience, strong regional relationships, and a deep commitment to public service. I look forward to working closely with her as we continue strengthening PIDP’s role as a Council of Regional Organizations of the Pacific (CROP) agency supporting Pacific-led priorities and regional cooperation.”
Prior to joining the East-West Center, Jaimee served in senior diplomatic assignments in China, Greece, Kenya, Egypt, Brazil, and the United Kingdom. Her work has spanned international relations, religious freedom, public diplomacy, governance, and educational exchange. A former public-school teacher, she has dedicated her career to fostering understanding and cooperation across cultures and communities.
"Jaimee's appointment reflects our commitment to serving as a trusted strategic convener for dialogue and partnership across the region," said East-West Center President Celeste Connors. "Her extensive diplomatic experience, deep ties to Hawaii, and understanding of the region will be a tremendous asset as we continue to bring together leaders and institutions to address shared economic security challenges and opportunities."
Jaimee holds a Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Arts from Brigham Young University and a master's degree from Harvard University. Her graduate research focused on a Hawaiian immigrant community in Utah from 1889 to 1917, which included several of her own ancestors. She speaks Mandarin and is currently pursuing a PhD in Global and International Education at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa.
"As someone whose roots are firmly grounded in Hawaii and whose career has spanned the globe, Jaimee brings a perspective that reflects the East-West Center’s unique role in the world," said Governor John D. Waihee III, Chair of the East-West Center Board of Governors. "We are pleased to welcome her to the Center and confident she will make important contributions to its mission and future."
Jaimee's appointment strengthens PIDP's ability to convene stakeholders and advance practical solutions to the opportunities and challenges facing the Pacific. As regional priorities continue to evolve, PIDP remains committed to supporting partnerships that underpin regional cooperation and helping translate dialogue into meaningful action.
About East-West Center:
The EAST-WEST CENTER promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the US Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options.
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