As I sat in my seat, waiting for my son to step out for his final Punahou event at last week’s Commencement, my eyes were drawn to the beautiful kāhili – crafted with feathers and built to endure for years to come – standing tall and proud, a symbol of honor and tradition. Surrounding them were the beaming plumeria sprays, rows of ti leaf lei, the breathtaking oversized haku lei, plumeria topiaries, and more. I was filled with gratitude for the many hands that love our Punahou community enough to dedicate countless hours to making it all happen. I’ve cherished the conversations and laughter shared as parents worked side by side to create a beautiful backdrop for our graduates.
This moment is the culmination of a year filled with PFA activities. Maybe you enjoyed a meal and good company at a PFA Monthly Gathering, dropped off pizzas for Pi Day, ushered families at May Day, cheered on drivers delivering pounds of sugar, or arrived extra early to find parking before your Carnival shift. Each of these small moments – made possible by you, our PFA families – helped shape a year dedicated to strengthening our Punahou community.
A year of hard work was matched by new connections, laughter, old friends, and – most meaningful – learning and growth as we came together to give this place all the love we have.
As I wrap up my role as PFA President, I want to express my deep gratitude to the PFA Board and Leadership team. I’m still buzzing from their enthusiasm and heartfelt dedication to our school community. I’m excited for what lies ahead for PFA under the leadership of Melody Fukushima, our incoming PFA President, and her Leadership team for the 2025 – 2026 school year. I hope you’ll join in and be a part of this vibrant and committed group!
Mahalo,
Emmie Kia P’21, ’22, ’25, ’28, ’31
PFA President 2024 – 2025
