Jessica Higa joinds anti-drug war

County recruits another soldier to fight the war against drugs

A staff sergeant from the Hawaii Army National Guard joined the County of Kaua‘i drug-prevention effort this month.

Federal funds were approved for the hiring of Staff Sgt. Jessica Higa, whose contract runs through the end of the federal fiscal year, or Sept. 30.

Higa will be assisting Roy Nishida, county anti-drug coordinator, and employees in the Offices of Community Assistance Recreation Agency, with the coordination of youth activities and the fostering of community partnerships, Nishida said.

This may include seeking manpower, arranging for use of facilities, securing instructors, or even helping organizations with the funding-application process for drug-prevention and education activities.

“Because of her team-building skills, she will be able to effectively develop partnerships that are needed to combat Kaua‘i’s drug problems,” said Nishida.

Higa comes to the county courtesy of a federal Drug Demand Reduction grant given to officials at the state Department of Defense.

Nishida had been working toward gaining National Guard personnel assistance since his appointment last year, he said. The position was approved about three months ago, and he and retired Col. Theodore Daligdig III began the interview process to fill the position.

Higa was chosen because of her skills and educational background, Nishida continued. Higa, a former director of the ropes course in Waipa, is a certified trainer for the National Guard, and holds a master’s degree in psychology.

Nishida said Higa’s background will greatly contribute to the county’s anti-drug program, as well as with the coordination of efforts between the military, county and community.

Higa’s appointment could be renewed after Sept. 30 if federal funds are available, Nishida said.