Kurt Kawafuchi, director of the Hawai'i state Department of Taxation, has been honored with an Outstanding CPA in State Government Award from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Kawafuchi, who last month was given a similar award by the Hawai'i Society of Certified Public Accountants, was recognized for contributions that increased the efficiency and effectiveness of government organizations. During Kawafuchi's tenure, the department has made a number of improvements, including a record $308 million in annual collections of unpaid taxes, and more customer service programs.