Title: Principal
Company: DDC Consulting LLC
Location: Honolulu, Hawaii, United States
Donalyn Dela Cruz, principal at DDC Consulting LLC, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Business Owners for dedication, achievements, and leadership in consulting services.
Ms. Dela Cruz, a tenured communications and public relations professional, has been the principal and owner of DDC Consulting, a premier consulting company she established in Honolulu in 2021. Leveraging over 20 years of experience, she assists organizations with strategic communications that promote positive results. Utilizing her skills as a former television reporter, host, public affairs and lobbying expert, she specializes in communication strategies and media relations. Ms. Dela Cruz’s expertise in broadcast journalism, strategic planning, government affairs, crisis communications, and other areas of the field has also been pivotal to her success and tenure in the industry.
Before establishing her consulting firm, Ms. Dela Cruz was the vice president of communications and then the senior vice president at Strategies 360 Inc. between 2018 and 2021. She also garnered success as the director of communications at the Hawaii State Department of Education from 2012 to 2018. Moreover, Ms. Dela Cruz held positions with the State of Hawaii as a deputy director, the Bishop Museum as a director, and U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka as his press secretary, dating back to 2004. Before pivoting to the industry’s business side, Ms. Dela Cruz began her career in journalism as a reporter.
Ms. Dela Cruz’s decision to transition into consulting stems from her experiences when the COVID-19 pandemic began. At the time, she was employed by a Seattle-based consulting firm, and clients preferred to work with her directly rather than going through the firm. Ultimately, Ms. Dela Cruz took a risk and formed her own business, DDC Consulting, offering similar services. She has gained tremendous success over the past few years, working with numerous public and private organizations like Starwood Capital Group, the University of Hawaii System, and the Center for Homeland Defense and Security.
In preparation for her future, Ms. Dela Cruz received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1998 and a master’s degree in national security policy studies from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2017. Her education has been instrumental in her career and set the tone for the future.
In addition to her professional credentials, Ms. Dela Cruz is an active member of the American Council for Young Political Leaders. She also engages civically as an executive board member of the University of Hawaii Alumni, a board member for Child and Family Service, and an advisory board member for RiseHI. Among other affiliations, Ms. Dela Cruz provides pro bono work for various cultures and arts that promote and protect Hawaiian culture.
Highlighting her accomplishments, Ms. Dela Cruz received a 40 Under 40 Award in 2009 and was recognized as the American Cancer Society’s Volunteer of the Year in 2011. She credits her success to several influential mentors and others who have believed in and encouraged her.
Grateful for her many professional opportunities, Ms. Dela Cruz remains dedicated to fostering connections and strengthening her consulting methods for the betterment of her clients. She also believes in the power of mentorship and helping others grow and excel. Above her accolades, Ms. Dela Cruz draws satisfaction from her commitment to uplifting the community behind the scenes, where she can provide them with the tools necessary for success.
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