Heather Hayashi is the Communications Manager for the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Horticulture, where she leads strategic communications and research promotion initiatives focused on advancing global food security and agricultural innovation. In this role, she develops comprehensive communication strategies to amplify research impact and foster knowledge exchange across international partnerships.

Hayashi brings extensive public sector experience in research communications and information services. She has worked within the University of California system and California Community Colleges as an adjunct faculty librarian, advancing initiatives in education, sustainability, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her work with state and local government agencies as a public affairs and information officer has encompassed media relations, brand development, and strategic communication campaigns that bridge research and public engagement.

In her current position, Hayashi oversees multimedia content development and stakeholder engagement strategies that support locally-led horticultural research across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. She specializes in culturally responsive communications and has developed innovative approaches to amplifying community-driven research and Indigenous voices through multiple communication channels.

Beginning in private industry with design and marketing roles, Hayashi transitioned to academia where she worked for over a decade in research and information services. Prior to joining UC Davis, she served in public affairs and information officer roles for state government and a regional water district. She holds an M.S. in Library Science from Clarion University, completed advanced studies in Studio Art through New York University's Berlin residency program, and earned a B.S. in Design with emphasis in Visual Communications and Interior Architecture from UC Davis.

Her research interests include environmental and social justice communication, sustainable development, and innovative approaches to research dissemination and community engagement. She has particular expertise in developing communication frameworks that support equitable knowledge sharing and cross-cultural collaboration in international development contexts.