Candace Hamana

Director, Tribal Relations

Phone: 480-965-9195

Candace Hamana serves as Director of Tribal Relations for the Office of Government and Community Engagement at Arizona State University. With over 15 years in communications and public relations, including 12 years focusing on Indian Country, Candace has cultivated strategic partnerships and spearheaded initiatives that align with tribal community interests. Her notable roles include advocating for tribal interests as a Tribal Liaison at the Arizona Commerce Authority, focusing on expanding broadband access, digital equity, and economic development.

Previously, she worked as a Public Affairs Specialist with the Indian Health Service during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she led culturally sensitive public health campaigns. Her experience also includes water management as the Tribal Relations and Strategic Initiatives Analyst for the Central Arizona Project.

Candace's earlier roles included Media Relations Specialist and Public Information Officer for the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and various positions in South Carolina politics, where she managed campaigns and served as Communications Director for the House Democratic Caucus.

She has been active on several boards, such as the Public Relations Society of America Phoenix Chapter and the Hopi Education Endowment Fund. Currently, she is a board member of the Buddy Whitethorne Foundation. Candace holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina and a Master of Science from ASU, specializing in Digital Audience Strategy. As a proud member of the Hopi Tribe and a military mom, Candace is dedicated to making ASU a culturally rich and inclusive educational environment.