By Jeremiah Estrada | May 19, 2026
HONOLULU (Island News) — The Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) announced on Tuesday that Kerrie Urosevich, Ph.D. was appointed as the nonprofit’s next CEO.
Urosevich brings more than 25 years of nonprofit executive leadership experience to DVAC, which has served survivors and families in Hawaii for 35 years. Her prior work includes public policy, peacebuilding, systems change, early childhood development, family violence prevention and cross-sector collaboration.
DVAC noted that Urosevich is widely recognized for helping organizations and communities navigate complex challenges with clarity, courage and care.
“Kerrie Urosevich brings the clarity, compassion and steady leadership needed to guide DVAC into its next chapter, with a deep commitment to supporting the advocates, attorneys and staff who carry this mission every day,” said David Tumilowicz, DVAC Board Chair. “We are profoundly grateful to Interim CEO Laurie Tochiki, whose leadership strengthened DVAC’s foundations and prepared the organization for this transition. The Board of Directors is excited to work with Kerrie to advance DVAC’s lifesaving work and deepen our services for survivors and families across Hawaii.”
Urosevich will officially become the CEO of DVAC on June 15, 2026. Tochiki will continue supporting DVAC’s leadership transition through July 2026 to help ensure continuity and a smooth hand-off.
“Domestic violence is not only a private crisis; it is a community issue that calls on all of us to respond with courage, compassion and coordination,” said Urosevich. “As CEO, my intention is to listen, learn and work alongside our committed staff, survivors, advocates, attorneys, educators, public officials, police, courts, businesses and community organizations to build safer pathways for families throughout Hawaii.”
DVAC is Hawaii’s only organization solely dedicated to domestic violence. The organization’s services include legal advocacy, survivor support, housing assistance, education, outreach and systems advocacy for survivors and families statewide.
DVAC welcoming a new CEO comes at a time where nonprofit organizations across the state are navigating increasing community needs, workforce pressures and growing uncertainty around long-term funding and sustainability. Over the past year, DVAC has continued to provide its services as well as worked to strengthen internal systems, culture and operational stability.
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