As we celebrate Founder’s Day and recognize the 30th Anniversary of the Pauahi Foundation, the kuleana shared by Kamehameha Schools Alumni, employees, students and donors to honor and perpetuate the vision of Ke Ali‘i Pauahi becomes even more evident.
Whether connecting with supporters at Alumni Reunion, visiting with haumāna and kumu on campus or sharing stories at a donor event, I’m reminded that we’re all part of something bigger than us. Through these conversations, I realize the tremendous impact Ke Ali‘i Pauahi has made on my life, my ‘ohana and so many people that I care about.
My connection to Princess Pauahi goes back to when I was accepted to Kamehameha Schools as a third grader. What I remember vividly was being overwhelmed by this new journey because I didn’t have many friends, and it was a new situation—coming in to an existing cohort of students. My third-grade teacher, Ruby Lowe KSK’61, was instrumental in supporting me in my new role at the school – and now, she’s a donor to the Pauahi Foundation!
I think back to my trip to perform at the Rose Parade in Los Angeles with the marching band and traveling to the continent to play with the baseball team. Ke Ali‘i Pauahi really helped open up the world for people like me and helped me realize there is so much out there. That’s the value of what Princess Pauahi gave us: Native Hawaiians from all backgrounds can connect with her mission and vision, which the Pauahi Foundation perpetuates today.
After high school, I went to the continent to pursue a professional career but found my calling back home at Kamehameha where I worked as a dorm advisor, managed admissions and now lead the KS Office of Advancement, which encompasses the Pauahi Foundation and Alumni Relations. You really start to see Ke Ali‘i Pauahi’s impact through multiple lenses: as a graduate, employee, parent of students and a donor. We can all relate through our personal stories. From an incredible real estate portfolio across ‘Āina Pauahi – including shopping malls, golf courses and gathering spaces – to the foundation of campuses, preschools and educational programs, you really understand how she has made such a transformational impact on the lāhui.
Reflecting on the impact and legacy of Princess Pauahi constantly reminds me that we all have a responsibility to give back. Together, we can continue to create pathways for the next generation of learners through education and continue to complete the cycle of philanthropy that Ke Ali‘i Pauahi envisioned.
Please join us in perpetuating Princess Pauahi’s legacy by making a gift at Pauahi.org as we all resonate with being forever indebted to our Founder. Please enjoy the holidays, stay safe and take good care!
Pono Maʻa
Director, Office of Advancement
Executive Director, Pauahi Foundation
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