This story was originally published in the fall/winter issue of Shidler Business.
Taylor Ledgerwood, BS ’23, is a driving force behind regenerative tourism in Hawai‘i through her role as manager of the Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture and the Arts (KISCA). Her work seamlessly integrates what regenerative aims to do– drawing on environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and community engagement to create experiences for guests and residents alike.
Ledgerwood focuses on preserving and celebrating the state’s unique cultural and natural heritage. She does this through creating platforms–through events and guest activities–that showcase and celebrate Hawaiian cultural practitioners, non-profit partners, local and Native artists and restoration projects in the area. Through partnering with stakeholders, organizing programs that connect guests and community members and developing initiatives that protect the land and the ocean, kuleana (responsibility) is always top of mind.
Less than a year after she started with the KISCA program, Ledgerwood was promoted. Her first role centered around sustainability projects and environmental education. She also taught coral education pop-ups, microplastic keiki art classes and the Sunset Seminar speaker series. Transitioning to her current role as manager allowed her to shape KISCA’s direction more strategically, expanding its reach and impact.
Under her leadership, KISCA has introduced transformative programs such as tree-planting initiatives in collaboration with Protect and Preserve, where guests can sponsor or plant trees themselves. These activities offer a hands-on way for visitors to connect with Hawai‘i’s environment while giving back to the land. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like M–alama Maunalua have allowed KISCA to play a vital role in the Restore with Resilience Project, which focuses on ecosystem restoration from mountain to sea.
One of her proudest accomplishments has been bridging the gap between cultural authenticity and luxury hospitality. Balancing guest expectations with meaningful cultural and environmental experiences remains a cornerstone of her efforts. Ledgerwood feels excited and inspired about where sustainable tourism is headed as she continues her career.
“I see sustainability and cultural initiatives continuing to evolve and becoming even more essential in Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry,” she said. “What’s interesting, in my opinion, is that every property will likely develop its own unique ‘personality type’ when it comes to regenerative tourism.”
Beyond her work at KISCA, Ledgerwood has shared her knowledge through returning to her alma mater to guest lecture and has given presentations at conferences on regenerative tourism. These opportunities have allowed her to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders and advocate for innovative, sustainable practices within the industry. When asked for advice to current Shidler students, she emphasizes the importance of persistence and passion.
“Stay committed to what drives you, even if the path isn’t clear yet.”
“When I started, sustainable tourism wasn’t a widely recognized field, but I found ways to integrate my interests into my studies and career. Don’t be afraid to carve your own path—the opportunities will come.”
As she continues to lead KISCA, Ledgerwood envisions a rich future for Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry, one that prioritizes meaningful connections with the environment, culture and community. “Regenerative tourism is about more than minimizing harm; it’s about actively improving the places we love,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of that journey and excited to see how we can continue to make an impact together.”
