Mark Masashi Nakashima was a Democratic member of the Hawaii House of Representatives, representing District 1 on Hawaii Island, including Hamakua, North Hilo, South Hilo, a portion of Hilo, and Kaumana. A lifelong resident of Hawaii Island, he served from 2008 until his death at age 61 from health complications related to diabetes, following a kidney transplant in January 2023. Notable achievements include chairing the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, serving as vice speaker from 2018 to 2020, advocating for education and sustainable energy like geothermal development, and helping raise Hawaii's minimum wage as chair of the Labor and Public Employment Committee.

Education and Political Experience

• Earned a bachelor's degree and professional diploma in education from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in 1988.
• Taught history and economics at Honokaa High & Intermediate School , Castle High School, and Olomana School's Alder Street Detention Home.
• Served as a staff assistant to U.S. Senator Spark Matsunaga and worked for the Hawaii State Teachers Association as a UniServ Director representing teachers on Hawaii Island from 1993 until his election.
• Elected to the Hawaii House in 2008, serving 16–17 years with a focus on public education, labor, clean energy, and community service through groups like the Hāmākua Lions Club and Hawaii State Jaycees.