Biography
A lifelong member of the Laie community, Kelii Keanu was born at Kahuku Hospital and raised nearby, attending Laie Elementary and graduating from Kahuku High School. Both of his parents attended Brigham Young University–Hawaii (BYUH), where Kelii later earned his B.A. in Pacific Island Studies with a minor in Hawaiian Studies in 2006. It was during his time at BYUH that he met his wife, and together they were married in the Laie Hawaii Temple. He further advanced his expertise by earning a Doctor of Architecture degree from the University of Hawaii at Mãnoa in 2020.
With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry-including overseeing capital planning and managing projects at the Polynesian Cultural Center-Kelii now plays a pivotal role as Planning, Design, and Construction Manager at BYU–Hawaii. In this capacity, he leads a skilled project team working closely with architects, contractors, and consultants on campus projects ensuring they align with the university's strategic goals, quality standards, and compliance requirements-all with the aim of fostering a thriving campus environment that supports institutional growth.
Kelii served a two-year LDS mission in Raleigh, North Carolina, which reinforced his dedication to service and community. Married for 19 years and a father of four, he blends cultural insight, strong leadership, and a results-driven approach to strengthen both the university and the community he calls home. In his personal time, Kelii enjoys Polynesian drumming, surfing, and traveling-pursuits that enrich his connection to culture and provide balance in his life.