The state Department of Accounting and General Services, better known as DAGS, has officially brought on board a new Communications Officer, Diane Ako. Formerly with KITV4, Hawaiʻi's ABC affiliate, Ako is no stranger to the limelight or the press room, boasting a resume with a quarter-century of newscasting experience alongside a four-year stint in public relations.
Keith Regan, the State Comptroller leading DAGS, believes in running a tight ship and that with a department sprawling enough to quickly and efficiently respond to public queries and share the successes of its team, communication is key. "This department consists of eight divisions across three district offices, with 11 more attached agencies, boards and commissions. We created a communications position to help us not only respond to public and media requests, but also to highlight the good work our people do in the community," Regan stated in an announcement shared by DAGS.
Ako herself is raring to take the reins and steer the public narrative. "I am excited to step into this role. DAGS plays such an important function in state government and touches more lives and services than people may realize. I’m proud to be part of this organization and to contribute to our community now as a public servant," Ako mentioned in her remarks according to DAGS. Her responsibilities span from devising the strategic communications plan to engaging with the community, assisting with legislative matters, and working alongside media.
The crux of DAGS encompasses a host of divisions and offices—including Accounting, Archives, Audit, Automotive Management, Central Services, Enterprise Technology Services, Land Survey, Public Works, and also the historic Washington Place. District offices are strategically placed on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, and Maui to best serve the state's widespread needs. Furthermore, DAGS is designed to support an array of attached entities such as the Access Hawaiʻi Committee, Building Code Council, Campaign Spending Commission, Hawaiʻi State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, State of Hawaiʻi 9-1-1 Board, among others.
