HONOLULU – Former University of Hawai'i cheerleader and current UH Letterwinners Club Executive Director Erika Buder-Nakasone is the 2009 recipient of the Kane Fernandez Community Service Award. She was presented with the award at Saturday's men's basketball game against Louisiana Tech at the Stan Sheriff Center.

Buder-Nakasone, who also is an administrative assistant in the Athletics Department, is the ninth recipient of the award, presented annually to a past UH letterwinner who has volunteered his or her support unselfishly to further advance their community.

As Executive Director of the Letterwinners Club, she handles the day-to-day operations of the club which includes overseeing a 30-member board; handling a 1,200-member database; coordinating receptions in Hawai'i and on the mainland; and directing numerous fundraising activities.

A former cheerleader from 1994-97, Buder-Nakasone also served as advisor and head coach of the UH cheer team. Among her many activities include HHSAA State Cheerleading Championships Coordinator, chair of the Cherry Blossom Festival's annual heritage fair, and team leader in the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. She also enjoys taking part in her two sons' school activities and their team sports.

The award is named for the late Kane Fernandez, chairman and chief executive officer of Fernandez Entertainment, who passed away in January 2001. He was one of the original members of the UH Letterwinners Club.