Celebrating Years of Service with Punahou
Punahou bids a warm mahalo to its faculty and staff who are celebrating milestone anniversaries or retiring from Punahou this year. We are deeply appreciative for their commitment and dedication to enrich our School and community. Punahou has greatly benefited from their longstanding contributions.
Below, we honor our 2026 honorees, who described their highlights of working at Punahou, and our cherished retirees who have left an indelible legacy at Punahou.
— 2026 Honorees —
Retirees
Shauna Candia
Visual Production Center Technician
Shauna is retiring after two decades of dedicated service to Punahou School. She first joined the school in 2005 as a temporary employee in the Mailroom before becoming a technician at the Visual Production Center in 2006, where she played an important behind-the-scenes role supporting the Punahou community.
One of the highlights of Shauna’s time at Punahou was working with the many student workers at VPC, affectionately known as the team’s “work kids.” Over the years, she enjoyed mentoring and getting to know students as they gained work experience, built confidence and prepared for life beyond Punahou. She especially loved reconnecting with former student workers who returned to visit during college breaks and share updates about their lives.
Outside of work, Shauna and her family enjoyed attending theatre performances and musical productions at Dillingham Hall, especially during her daughters’ years at Punahou.
What Shauna will miss most are the everyday moments that made campus life so special – the friendly faces, the laughter and energy of students, the sounds of music drifting through campus and the excitement that filled the grounds during Carnival season. She leaves Punahou with many fond memories and deep appreciation for the community she was fortunate to be part of.
Christine David
Academy Faculty, Math
Christine is retiring after more than three decades of dedicated service to Punahou School, where she has been a respected Academy mathematics teacher and leader. Since joining the faculty in 1991, she has served in a variety of roles, including department chair and Academy dean, before returning to the classroom in recent years.
Throughout her career, Christine found great joy in working alongside colleagues across departments and in building lasting relationships with students. She describes Punahou as a truly special place – one where motivated, kind students and supportive colleagues made each day meaningful and rewarding.
Christine also values the lifelong connections she has formed, keeping in touch with former students and cherishing the friendships built over the years. She will especially miss the sense of community and the joy of working with students who brought energy and purpose to her work.
In retirement, Christine looks forward to watching movies, reading and daily walks, focusing on her health and well-being, and spending more time with her husband, Richard and their daughter, Annalise Halverson ’16. She leaves Punahou with deep gratitude for a fulfilling career and the many relationships that made it so meaningful.
Carol Halbur
Academy Faculty, Math
Carol has been a respected member of the Academy mathematics faculty since 2002, primarily guiding sophomores, juniors and seniors through Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus and Differential Calculus. Over her career, she also served as head coach of the Speech and Debate Team and as the Hawai‘i state Speech and Debate tournament director, mentoring students both in and beyond the classroom. Most recently, she was inducted into the Hawai‘i Speech League Hall of Fame, recognizing her lasting contributions to the program.
Known for her thoughtful teaching and commitment to student confidence, Carol took particular pride in developing and teaching Differential Calculus, a course she shaped over nearly two decades to support students in recognizing their own potential in upper-level mathematics. She also valued the strong sense of camaraderie within the math department and the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring educators.
Before joining Punahou, Carol taught internationally in Seoul and Kathmandu, bringing a global perspective to her work.
In retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with family in Minnesota, traveling, singing, exploring family history and enjoying the freedom to pursue new interests. She will especially miss her colleagues and students, whose relationships and shared experiences made her years at Punahou so meaningful and fulfilling.
Dot Hirata
Administrative Assistant
Since joining the school in 2003, Dot has served as an administrative assistant in both Dole Hall and the Physical Plant Office. Dot is known for her kindness, reliability and the strong relationships she built with colleagues across campus.
Throughout her time at Punahou, Dot found joy in working with supportive administrators and staff who guided and encouraged her along the way. She especially cherished her daily interactions with students during her years in Dole Hall, where their energy and spirit brought a special sense of fun to her work.
Her time at Punahou was also deeply personal, as she was able to be on campus while her sons, Nickolas ’10 and Christopher ’16, grew up and graduated from the school – an experience she considers especially meaningful.
In retirement, Dot looks forward to spending time with her family, especially caring for her young granddaughter, staying active through walking and local races, and hopefully returning to campus one day to watch her grandchildren follow in their parents’ footsteps. She leaves Punahou with heartfelt gratitude and many fond memories, and will greatly miss the friendships she built over the years.
Sharlene Itoman
Procurement Specialist
Sharlene is retiring after years of dedicated service to Punahou School, where she most recently served as a procurement buyer in Central Supply. Since joining the school in the mid-1980s, she held a variety of roles across campus, including in the cafeteria, business office and bookstore, contributing her time and talents wherever needed.
Throughout her years at Punahou, Sharlene found joy in working with both colleagues and student workers, building lasting relationships and fostering a strong sense of community. She especially enjoyed mentoring student workers and being part of the everyday life of the campus. Outside of her primary role, she shared her creative talents through floral design, crafting bouquets and arrangements for proms, weddings and special events – adding a personal touch to many memorable occasions.
Beyond Punahou, Sharlene has a deep appreciation for Japanese classical dance, which she studied for many years and in which she earned a professional name, reflecting her dedication to the art.
She will greatly miss the camaraderie of the faculty, staff and students who made her time at Punahou so meaningful. In retirement, Sharlene looks forward to focusing on her health and spending time with her husband and family, while carrying with her many cherished memories from her years at the school.
Alan Lum ’80
Junior School Faculty – Grade 2
Over the course of four decades, Alan has taken on many roles at Punahou School, leaving a lasting impact as a teacher, coach and mentor to generations of students. After first joining the school in 1981 as a Summer School kindergarten assistant, Alan began his full-time teaching career in 1986 and went on to serve in a variety of leadership and coaching roles across campus.
In addition to teaching second grade in the Junior School and serving as Dean of Students for the PUEO Program, Alan contributed as a Grade Level Team Leader, member of the K – 5 Math Committee and Faculty Advisory Committee, and coach for Varsity I Boys’ Basketball and Water Polo. Throughout his career, he found great meaning in service learning, both as a teacher and coach, and especially valued the relationships he built with students, families and colleagues.
Among the highlights of his years at Punahou were watching his children, Jade ’12 and Jared ’16, grow throughout their K – 12 journeys at the school and representing Punahou at a presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. He also takes pride in the many former students and players who have returned to campus as colleagues, with 18 now serving in various roles across the school community.
Outside of Punahou, Alan enjoys bodysurfing, playing basketball and cooking.
Reflecting on his career, Alan says he felt blessed to be hired at Punahou decades ago and still feels that same gratitude today. As he looks ahead to retirement, he is grateful for the opportunity to spend more time with his wife and children in this next phase of life.
John McDermott ’83
Junior School Faculty, Middle School PE
John is retiring after years of dedicated service to Punahou School, where he has been a longtime Physical Education teacher in Case Middle School. A proud alumnus who first joined the faculty full-time in 1998 (after earlier years coaching volleyball), John has spent more than two decades guiding sixth through eighth graders in building lifelong habits of health, teamwork and resilience.
Over the years, he also taught Academy and fifth grade PE courses, but found his home in middle school, where he cherished advisory, grade-level camps and the opportunity to watch students grow and mature during these formative years. John considers the relationships he built with colleagues and students alike to be the highlight of his career, describing Punahou as a place with a true family atmosphere.
A 13+ graduate of the Class of 1983, John’s connection to Punahou spans more than four decades, including as a parent to two current students and one recent graduate.
In retirement, he looks forward to spending more time with family and friends, traveling to visit his oldest child in Vancouver, catching up on reading, enjoying the outdoors and, perhaps most of all, sleeping in a little later each morning. He will deeply miss the camaraderie of his colleagues and the daily interactions with students who made each year meaningful.
Atsuko Motet
Academy Faculty, Japanese Language
Atsuko is retiring after years of dedicated service to Punahou School, where she has been a valued Japanese teacher, working with Academy students. Since joining Punahou in 1998, she has shared her passion for language and culture while building meaningful connections with her students.
Among her many highlights were serving as a chaperone on student trips to Japan and Bhutan, where shared travel experiences created lasting memories. She also cherished her role as a Bible Club advisor, where she fostered thoughtful discussions and a strong sense of community, finding it especially meaningful to witness students’ sincere eagerness to learn and grow in their understanding of the Bible. Atsuko also enjoyed participating in Holokū, dancing alongside colleagues in this joyful annual tradition.
Outside of Punahou, Atsuko enjoys staying active and creative through hula and other forms of dance, as well as playing pickleball and hiking. She finds joy in reading and exploring music and the arts, and she especially values travel as a way to experience new cultures and perspectives.
Atsuko is grateful for her time at Punahou and the opportunity to work alongside inspiring colleagues and students, whom she will greatly miss. In retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with family and friends, continuing to travel and pursue her interests and deepening her spiritual journey through continued Bible study and growth in her faith.
Lynne Tsuda ’74
Associate Director of College Counseling
Lynne is retiring after many years of dedicated service to Punahou School, where she has made a lasting impact across multiple roles, most recently as a college counselor in the Academy. After joining Punahou in 1985 as a mathematics teacher, Lynne went on to serve as a class dean for seven classes before transitioning to college counseling, guiding generations of students and families.
Throughout her career, Lynne has been shaped by and deeply appreciative of the many mentors, colleagues, and leaders who guided her, often reflecting on the idea of “standing on the shoulders of giants.” In turn, she has built enduring relationships of her own, including with approximately 40 former students who now work at Punahou – connections she especially treasures and continues to celebrate on campus.
Among her many highlights are supporting students across a wide range of experiences, from joining Orchestra students performing in China, to witnessing Marching Band performances in London, the Rose Bowl and presidential inaugurations, to leading students on college campus tours, and to celebrating achievements in academics, the arts, and athletics. She also fondly and humorously recalls participating in Carnival and Senior Variety Shows and sharing in the fun-loving and vibrant traditions that make Punahou unique.
While it is bittersweet to leave, Lynne is grateful for the caring and committed community she leaves behind. She will especially miss her colleagues and friends, whose dedication to helping students grow and thrive has made Punahou such a meaningful place to work. Her legacy lives on not only in the countless students she has guided, but in the generations of educators and leaders she has inspired within the Punahou community.
Andres Vallesteros
Groundsman
As a groundskeeper, Andres focused his efforts on the areas surrounding the school campus where his duties included planting, cutting grass, hedge trimming, and installing and fixing irrigation. He took particular pride in the latter, having installed the irrigation systems at both Mamiya and Dillingham.
Like many of his coworkers, Andres was a farmer in his native Philippines. Each year, he carefully nurtured his crops, which included rice, corn and beans. He put this experience and his gentle hands to work on Punahou’s verdant grounds. And while he was no longer a farmer, Andres still grew vegetables at his home, including eggplants, beans and bitter melon. Back in the Philippines, he was known by his middle name, Alfredo or “Fredo” for short, only changing his name upon arriving in the U.S.
Andres moved to Hawai‘i from the Philippines when he was 43. He and his wife Cornelia have two daughters, Mary Grace and Marissa, and a son, Andres Jr.
Andres enjoys going to the beach with his grandkids; favorite spots include Ala Moana Beach Park and Sand Island.
Sharon Vincent-Lum ’80
Junior School Faculty, Grade 5
Sharon leaves a lasting legacy at Punahou School as a beloved fifth grade Humanities teacher who inspired generations of students. Since joining the faculty in 1985, Sharon has enriched the lives of students both inside and outside the classroom through her creativity, leadership and deep commitment to education.
Over the years, Sharon took on many meaningful roles across the school community, including co-founding the fifth grade Drama Club, serving on writing and social studies curriculum committees, directing Case Middle School plays, and leading as both a Grade Level Chair and a Humanities Curriculum Chair. Among her many highlights were watching her own children, Jade ’12 and Jared ’16, attend Punahou, receiving the Betty K. Uehara Award for Excellence in Reading and Language Arts, and being recognized as a Presidential Scholar’s Most Inspirational Teacher in Washington, D.C.
Sharon especially cherished working with exceptional students and supportive families and colleagues throughout her career. She also found great joy seeing the fifth grade Drama Club grow from its beginnings in 1985 to nearly 120 student participants in her final year as director.
Outside of Punahou, Sharon enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, baking, taking long walks, and being in the ocean.
Reflecting on her years at Punahou, Sharon describes teaching at the school as a “glorious and wonderful experience” and feels deeply grateful for the opportunity to have spent her career here. In retirement, she looks forward to new adventures and making special memories with her husband and children.
Anniversary Celebrants
— 10 YEARS —
Custodian
“I enjoy working at Punahou because of the great benefits.”
Athletic Director
“The highlight of my time at Punahou centers on the meaningful relationships I have built over the years. It is a privilege to work with this incredible team in an environment dedicated to the personal growth and care of our student-athletes. One highlight would be leading the renovation of the Athletic Performance and Fitness Center in 2018.”
Custodian
“I enjoy the good benefits I receive from working here.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 5
“Teaching 6th grade Math and Science while my son was also in 6th grade. We had so many shared experiences and that really opened up our communication and strengthened our relationship.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 6 Math
“The highlight of my time at Punahou is waking up everyday knowing how grateful I am to be a part of this special community. I’ve enjoyed the last 10 years of educating students, coaching players, and being able to work alongside amazing faculty and staff across campus.”
Custodian
“I enjoy the great benefits!”
Custodian
“I have had a very good experience working here.”
Academy Faculty, Science
“I’ve loved working with my inspiring and supportive colleagues, especially in the Academy Science department! I also am immensely proud to be on campus with my daughter Chiara ’36. It is a true honor to be able to share in her Punahou experience.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 7 Social Studies
“Key highlights teaching at Punahou are the chance to promote global citizenship, foster inclusion, and boost geography awareness. I also genuinely appreciate the continuous opportunity for mutual learning and growth, coupled with the daily dose of 7th grade humor.”
Costume Shop Supervisor / Lead Designer
“My time at Punahou has been a full-circle journey, returning as an alumna to give back. Sharing years on campus with my mom, watching my sons grow here, and being supported as an artist and teacher has been deeply meaningful. I’m continually grateful for my colleagues and community”
Academy Faculty
“I have enjoyed my friendships with colleagues, and the opportunity to teach a variety of different courses and the freedom to develop new experiences for students.”
Associate Director of Outdoor Education
“It has been inspiring to witness the transformation of Puʻuomānoa, fueled by the love, hard work, and dedication of many volunteers. It is powerful to see our students connect with the puʻu and realize that their collective actions truly make a difference.”
Academy Faculty, Science
“I get to work with curious students, dedicated professional colleagues, and compassionate administrators, all trying to improve their craft and themselves. What’s more, now my two children have a safe and supportive place to learn to spread their wings before they take flight.”
Senior Infrastructure Engineer
“The highlight of my time at Punahou has been the opportunity to contribute to the technology design for the new buildings in the Kosasa Community and the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons.”
Junior School Faculty, Grades 7 – 8 Hawaiian Language
“The highlight of my time here at Punahou has been witnessing the growth of the Hawaiian language program and the growth of the interest of the students and other faculty in learning ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, and the use of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi!”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 4
“I feel so incredibly blessed to be part of such a special community here at Punahou. I’m grateful to work alongside caring, inspiring people every day. The relationships I’ve built mean so much to me and are one of the many reasons I love being part of the Punahou ʻohana.”
Associate Director of Alumni Relations
“I enjoy working alongside my coworkers in Advancement and Communications, especially the Alumni Relations team. I love the opportunities to innovate and elevate the alumni experience. The work we do is rewarding, fun and feel-good. For me, Punahou is home.”
Accountant
“There is not just one highlight. It’s the everyday inspiration and laughs. It’s the gestures of kindness from students, parents and employees. It’s laughing with a child when he asks ‘Mrs. Lee, can I have another copy of my schedule? My dog literally ate mine.’”
Human Resources Manager
“Over the past decade, it’s been a pleasure working alongside such dedicated faculty and staff. These connections enriched my experience, but it’s especially meaningful to see my daughter here as a student. I look back on these past ten years with immense gratitude and am excited for the future.”
Associate Director of Admissions, Grades 6 – 12
“The highlight of my time at Punahou has been the relationships built along the way. This is truly a special place because of the people we have the privilege to work with and serve.”
Custodian
“I have had good experiences working at Punahou. The teachers and students are friendly.”
Academy Faculty, English
Senior Graphic Designer
“One of the highlights of working at Punahou is being a part of this community. My colleagues inspire me with their passion, and this kind of synergy makes work joyful. More than that, these colleagues have become my friends, which makes me the luckiest person in the world.”
Director of Theatre
“Witnessing the power of theatre and arts education through student experiences. Art matters, and continues to inspire young learners and our community.”
Painter
“A highlight has been my youngest son getting accepted to Punahou.”
Senior Human Resources Associate
“My biggest highlight has been the relationships I’ve built over the past 10 years and the opportunity to support our employees along the way.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 8 English
“‘Mr. Roldan, you’re fire! I thought you were just going on and on about color coding, but I actually used this stuff in high school English and even at Stanford!’ I find it rewarding when a former student visits and tells me how I’ve helped shape their reading and writing skills.”
Junior School Faculty, Grades K – 8 Resource Teacher
“Working with and getting to know such amazing Punahou faculty, staff, and students.”
Administrative Assistant
“Working with Punahou’s dedicated and capable staff was the highlight of my career. I loved the challenges of my position and am so grateful for all who became the village that helped me raise my two daughters. I leave with profound love and appreciation for my time at Punahou.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 3
“In these past 10 years, I’ve learned a lot about myself as a professional – learned to navigate change, try new things without fear, keep true to myself and the way that I teach, and laugh my way through all the craziness with my colleagues whom I love.”
Custodial Team Leader
“In my 10 years working at Punahou School the highlight I’ll never forget, was when my kids graduated from the Classes of 2020 and 2023. I’m so grateful to be working at K – 1 with the happy kids, teachers and my co-workers in the Custodian Department. Thank you.”
— 15 YEARS —
Junior School Counselor
“I love nurturing students’ social emotional growth through emotional literacy, self regulation, and relationships. From quiet classroom moments to co-directing the vibrant Holokū Pageant, fostering culture, connection, and collective joy has been the heart of my work.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 7 Enrichment
“The opportunity to work with and learn from teachers and professionals at the top of their game: Pam Robles, Sandy Chang, Betsy Hata, Demetra Kaulukukui, Bob Tam, Chris David, Susie Field, Janet Oshiro, Gail Peiterson, Jeff Meister, Hope Staab, Andy and Shelby, to name a few.”
Administrative Assistant
“The highlight of my time working at Punahou School has been the relationships I’ve built with students, families and colleagues. Being part of a supportive and caring community has made my years here both meaningful and deeply rewarding.”
Academy Faculty, Math
“During my time at Punahou, I have had the opportunity to work alongside some amazing colleagues. I have made lifelong friendships and I am looking forward to making many more in the years to come.”
Co-Curricular Faculty, Music School
“In addition to working with wonderful students and a supportive administration team, I had the opportunity to join my colleagues and the Punahou Symphony Orchestra for a performance of the third movement of the Beethoven Triple Concerto.”
Athletic Trainer
“The highlight of my time at Punahou is helping student-athletes pursue their goals. I am honored to be a part of a sports medicine team that plays a vital role in guiding Punahou’s student-athletes from devastating injury back to triumph on the field.”
Co-Curricular Faculty, Music School
“Beethoven supposedly quipped: ‘To play a wrong note is insignificant. To play without passion is inexcusable!’ It has been inspiring to work here – in an environment where all are encouraged to be unafraid of learning from their mistakes and to be passionate about their art.”
Junior School Assistant Teacher, Grade 2
“The students’ smiles each morning and witnessing their promise in the classroom are my greatest blessings teaching at Punahou. I am also deeply grateful for the excellent education and care my children received here, and for the colleagues who have become lifelong friends.”
Academy Faculty, French Language
“I truly value Punahou’s francophone and francophile community that feels like a family, both students and faculty. I also appreciate my former students stopping by for a quick “bonjou” and updates. Merci beaucoup for the opportunity to connect and create!”
Co-Curricular Faculty, Music School
“The opportunity to witness tremendous growth and resilience in every student in concerts and recitals. Being inspired by playing chamber music with students and faculty because it’s fun to see how music teaches us to listen, communicate, and connect with each other.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 5
“A highlight of my time at Punahou has been learning alongside my students. Their curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm inspire me daily. I love seeing them build confidence, take risks, and support one another in a community that values both relationships and a love of learning.”
Kumu ‘Ike Hawai‘i-Ho‘okele Papa Hana Wa‘a
“The people make the place as the place shapes the people. This is a place of learning from birth to long after we are gone. We are surrounded by good people. I am constantly humbled by how much support and trust we receive to do the work we do.”
Groundsman
Junior School Faculty, Kindergarten
“The highlight of my time at Punahou is the full-circle journey: from the joy of Kūpuna Day to the Senior Reunions. Seeing my former Kindergartners return to the neighborhood as graduates, still carrying that same spark, reminds me that these relationships truly last a lifetime.”
Director of Outdoor Education
“The evolution of how the school/community views Pu’uomānoa (Rocky Hill). Very few know about the genuine work done by students weekly and what those that came before us did to protect and care for that space. I’m grateful for these people and hopeful it’s just the beginning.”
Junior School Counselor
“The highlight is not one moment, but the unfolding: students who challenge adults to keep learning, colleagues who model curiosity, resilient middle schoolers and families. Ducklings, AI, kalo – and my own child – emerging, advancing. Thank you for taking care of us all!”
Academy Faculty, Social Studies
“Aside from working alongside inspirational colleagues and helping to broaden students’ perspectives, I have cherished the opportunities and experiences our school has offered in terms of supporting my own professional growth as an educator and global citizen.”
Groundsman
President’s Office Coordinator
“The highlight has been the people – a warm, supportive community that feels like home, made even more special by the privilege of watching my own children grow and thrive here over the past 15 years.”
Academy Faculty, Math
“The kids here are special, indeed, but having colleagues that challenge me to be better really keeps this from becoming “work.” Having people who I can laugh, cry, share my successes with and count on during my struggles really makes Punahou like home for me.”
Co-Director of Hawaiian Arts Program / Junior School Substitute Coordinator
“My highlight at Punahou is being able to continue my family’s legacy. I’m grateful to be able to support our faculty, staff, students, alumni and families of Punahou.”
— 20 YEARS —
Custodian
IT Service Technician
“The highlights have always been seeing how our department comes together to create a solution using creative thinking and outside the box solutions. It always reminds me about how lucky I am to be working with such great people.”
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
“The wonderful humans of Punahou School have been the absolute highlight! My amazing, thoughtful, wise, kind, creative colleagues and friends; the phenomenal teachers my children had; and our incredible students that are our reason for being here. I love our Punahou community!”
Administrative Assistant
“I am grateful to be part of this collaborative environment. The collective willingness to prioritize mutual support, even amidst individual deadlines, is a testament to the strength of this community.”
Assistant Principal, Academy
“The highlight of my time at Punahou has been the opportunity to engage in work that benefits our students. It has been a joy to work with friends and colleagues here to create a positive, supportive, and memorable experience for our kiddos!”
Visual Production Center Technician
“So many highlights – here are a few! Coming to school with my daughters, knowing they’re in good hands; working with great people; treasuring historic buildings; admiring the foliage, plumeria and puakenikeni and careful grounds maintenance; and so many special school traditions!”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 6 Science
“The highlight of my time at Punahou is nurturing curiosity alongside students and colleagues.”
Custodian
“Throughout my 20 years at Punahou, although I work alone, I love talking to other staff members and students. Talking with them has helped me improve my English.”
Custodian
“Taking care of the campus and being part of the community that gives students a place where they can learn and grow.”
Associate Director of Admissions, Grades K – 5
“A highlight of my time has been working closely with students, learning alongside them and supporting their growth, including trips to Hawaiʻi Island. I’m especially grateful that my two sons graduated from here, and for my colleagues who have truly become my ʻohana.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 1
“The highlight of my years at Punahou has been working alongside talented colleagues who have become lifelong friends, forming lasting bonds with students and families, and most of all, sharing the Punahou experience with my three sons – making these years truly unforgettable.”
Academy Dean
“It is truly the sense of community that highlights my time here at Punahou. I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and joy for the opportunity to collaborate with such remarkable and inspiring individuals who consistently bring a smile to my face.”
Senior Systems Administrator
“Not missing anything my kids did in school while they were here.”
Junior School Assistant Teacher, Grade 1
“I have been incredibly fortunate to experience Punahou as a student, a teacher, and a parent. I am most grateful for the many students whose stories and hugs have touched my life. Seeing my daughter’s journey through Punahou has been a gift that made my work even more meaningful.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade K – 1 Music
“Every day is different and brings opportunity to explore and play. My colleagues are some of the most talented and passionate people I know. My students are joyful, creative, and enthusiastic, and they keep me motivated to learn and grow alongside them.”
Academy Faculty / Department Head, Music
“I’ve enjoyed having the privilege to travel with student groups to Japan and the Continent to share music, friendship, and Hawai’i with others.”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 8 Science
“The highlight of my time at Punahou School has been the deep sense of community among colleagues and students. Building a ‘family’ here, seeing former students thrive, and growing into a confident educator has made this journey truly special. I love coming to work each day!”
Junior School Administrative Dean
“Getting to work on the Kosasa Community project was incredible. The way the whole community came together to support this project was amazing. Between the faculty, administrators, trustees, and donors, it was an honor to be a part of something so special.”
Director of Foundation Relations
“Ever since 4th grade, Punahou has been the fulcrum of my life. Since returning to Hawai‘i and Punahou more than 20 years ago, I have been privileged to work with a group of passionate, dedicated and creative colleagues that hold Punahou in their hearts and inspire me every day.”
Academy Faculty, Japanese Language
“As I reflect on my 20 years at Punahou School, I feel deeply grateful for the meaningful and inspiring connections I’ve made with students and colleagues. These relationships have helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
— 25 YEARS —
Plumber
“Meeting and working with a lot of beautiful, awesome people. Having my son and daughter attend and graduate from this Punahou School where they are blessed and connected for life. Thank you Punahou!!!”
Academy Faculty, Math
“Being a part of the incredible Punahou community and seeing my children thrive from all it offers. Working with colleagues who are supportive and who push me to be a better teacher.”
Operations Support
“I love that Punahou and its community embodies the spirit of Aloha! I can confidently say that when I walk through the campus everyone greets each other with a warm smile.”
Custodian
Junior School Faculty, Grade 8 Math
“Inspiring and thoughtful colleagues and staff + kind and hard-working students showing exponential growth = so many highlights, the limit does not exist. Mahalo to everyone who has made these 25 years so meaningful.”
Food Service Worker
Junior School Faculty – Grades 7-8 Choir
“I have so many fabulous memories that include coaching volleyball, music directing over 15 shows (Les Misérables personal fav) and putting on over 50 choir concerts. But the real highlight is spending every day with joyous students and colleagues making music. I am truly blessed.”
Academy Faculty, Social Studies
“Unquestionably, the highlight has been the daily learning in preparation for teaching and the gift of time with extraordinary people – my kind, generous, hardworking colleagues all over campus and those sincere, curious students whose glimmering eyes inspire and give me hope.”
Academy Dean
“Reflecting on 25 years at Punahou, my highlight is profound gratitude for the relationships I’ve built. My joy isn’t a single event, but serving this community to foster successful outcomes for all and helping students become the best they can be.”
Academy Faculty, English
“The people – colleagues who’ve made me laugh while making me better, and students who keep reminding me the work is hopeful. After 25 years, neither has gotten old. (Arguably I have, but that’s another story.)”
— 30 YEARS —
Associate Director for Stewardship
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside dedicated and inspiring colleagues on a campus so beautiful it feels like arriving at the Four Seasons each day. I am truly grateful to be part of this community, where shared purpose truly matters.”
Security Officer
“Nothing compares to the fulfillment of watching Punahou students grow. Seeing them mature – physically, mentally and emotionally – into fine young adults is truly the highlight of my time here.”
Academy Faculty, Art
“Living on campus and watching Chloe and Sebastien blossom from kindergarten till graduation. Ultimately, finding my IKIGAI with art education.”
Director of Academy Special Terms
“It’s difficult to choose between the amazing students or exemplary faculty and staff, so BOTH. Punahou is a standout example of what is possible when you intersect students and adults into a safe space where everyone thrives.”
— 35 YEARS —
Custodial Team Leader
“It’s been a great opportunity to have worked at Punahou for the last 35 years. Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with good, friendly people in our department and having a very supportive and caring boss. I am so thankful that my son is also a Punahou alumni ’03”
Academy Faculty / Department Head, Art
“During my tenure, I evolved from managing glass and ceramic shops to the psycho-social domain, leading Academy and freshman camps for two decades. As a three-time DH constantly exploring new pedagogy, I balance fresh school insights with reflection on our established traditions.”
Academy Faculty, Math
“The highlight of my 35 years at Punahou has been working with so many amazingly talented students, faculty, and staff. Although I love teaching math, I love learning and growing among all the wonderful people I have interacted with. They have truly been an inspiration to me!”
— 40 YEARS —
Operations Support
“I enjoy working for Punahou and also enjoy my coworkers and cafeteria staff, especially Physical Plant! Thank you!”
Junior School Faculty, Grade 2
“Some highlights include working with terrific students, parents, and colleagues, focusing on service learning as a teacher and coach, seeing my children attend Punahou K – 12, and representing Punahou at a presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C.”
Memorials
Lalaine D. Colliado
Cindy A. Eulitt
Patricia J. Fonokalafi
Paula K. Kurashige
Emiko Lyovin
William G. Messer
Robin D. Otagaki
Barbara H. Wong