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"CEO Talks" attendees after an inspiring talk by Amanda Pump.
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Amanda Pump talks story with the "CEO Talks" attendees.
In collaboration, Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s College of Liberal Arts, School of Nursing, and University Advancement hosted a "CEO Talks" event on April 15, featuring Amanda Pump, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Child and Family Service (CFS).
With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Human Services, Pump’s educational path was driven by a deep-rooted motivation to help others. Her alignment with the mission and values of CFS—a Hawaiʻi-born nonprofit founded in 1899—led her to join in 2010 as a therapist. At CFS, she found a profound connection with its vision of positive social impact.
Over the years, Pump has steadily advanced through leadership roles, including Program Administrator, Director of Oʻahu Programs, and Chief Program Officer. As CEO since January 2024, she leads a statewide team of 400, working closely with 50 staff leaders. Her service extends beyond CFS; Pump serves as President of both the Hawaiʻi State Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Zonta Club of Oahu. Additionally, she contributes her voice and leadership to the Ho’omaluhia Advisory Council and the Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network Advisory Council.
Raised in a rural farming community in Connecticut, Pump’s early experiences shaped her understanding of the challenges many families face. Growing up, she learned the importance of chasing happiness and passion, which continue to guide her career.
Pump emphasized to HPU students that anyone with dedication and passion can become a leader in the nonprofit sector.
"There's nothing special about me. Anyone of you, if you want to be a leader in the nonprofit sector, can do it," she said.
Her path to nonprofit service wasn’t linear. Initially aspiring to be a veterinarian, she discovered her passion for psychology as an undergraduate. Her advice to students: volunteer and explore different fields to discover what energizes you.
CEO and President of Child and Family Service engages with the audience during her talk.
She shared three guiding principles that have shaped her leadership:
Find Something You Love: "If you can have fun at work and work brings you energy, you are going to be set up for success."
Learn About Yourself: "We've all walked distinct paths and lives. Know what brings you joy."
Be Your Authentic Self: Authenticity reinforces that you are in the right working situation and helps build genuine connections. "Be your authentic self and this means you don't have to wear a mask. When you go to work, you're just you."
Her career, rooted in connection and service, reflects her belief in servant leadership. Despite the large responsibilities of her role, she finds joy in helping communities and serving others.
CFS operates 32 locations and 51 mission-centered programs across Hawaiʻi. Its work has become even more vital in the wake of crises like the Maui wildfires, volcanic eruptions on Hawaiʻi Island, and the COVID-19 pandemic. A striking 97% of CFS clients fall into the ALICE category—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—highlighting the urgent need for innovative, data-driven solutions.
Pump shared how CFS piloted a model of care that breaks generational poverty, developed by Marcella Wilson, Ph.D, the author of the book “Diagnosis: Poverty,” which assesses 21 social determinants of health. With eight years of data, the model has shown statistically significant improvements in CFS participants, now numbering 1,500 strong. CFS plans to expand its reach.
“We ask families to map their dreams,” she explained. “It’s about helping them visualize their goals and take steps toward them. Poverty is treatable. We just need the right tools and the right mindset.”
Pump also stressed the importance of federal advocacy, particularly for securing ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds that sustain nonprofit operations.
“We can’t do this work without support at every level,” she said.
Rooted in servant leadership, Pump’s philosophy centers on empowering others, fostering collaboration, and leading with authenticity.
“By focusing on how people feel and the overall health of the organization,” she said, “we measure success through growth and development.”
Drawing from Patrick Lencioni’s book “The Advantage,” Pump believes that thriving organizations must be both smart and healthy. This dual focus has shaped her leadership at CFS, where the mission is to strengthen families and support the healthy development of children.
Pump concluded by outlining four key disciplines for effective leadership:
Build a Cohesive Team: Trust is the foundation. Leaders must create a safe space for learning and growth. "Your biggest successes are going to be your probable failures. And we have to celebrate successes. But we also have to learn from the failure."
Create Clarity: Leaders must over-communicate to ensure alignment. “It’s your job as a leader to make sure you are clear.”
Manage Conflict: Trust within the team allows for healthy conflict, which is vital for diverse teams to stay mission-focused. “You don’t want people to agree with everything you say.”
Demonstrate Commitment and Accountability: Once clarity and trust are established, leaders must show commitment and hold themselves and their teams accountable. “Once you do all of that, you’re going to get results. You’re on the same page doing it together.”
Pump also stressed the importance of work-life balance, encouraging people to prioritize their families and personal well-being. She noted this balance is crucial for long-term success.
"Put your family first,” Pump said. “If you don't put your family first, who else will? Don't sacrifice your family for your career."
A key lesson she shared was the organizational responsibility for employee wellness.
“We must ensure our people are well taken care of,” she said, citing CFS’s efforts in career development, onboarding, and benefits. “Your employees are your biggest assets.”
The results from last year’s CFS staff survey speak volumes: 93% of staff reported they can be their authentic selves at work, and 88% said they feel supported by their supervisors.
“A positive culture drives productivity and success,” Pump affirmed.
