Photos by Kathleen Connelly
Punahou School officially began the 2026 – 2027 school year on Tuesday, Aug. 11, as students, faculty and staff gathered on Rice Field for Convocation. The morning also marked a milestone for the School with the opening of the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons.
Chaplain George Scott began the gathering with a prayer before President Mike Latham ’86 addressed the School community. Cheers echoed across Rice Field as Latham recognized each grade level and welcomed new and returning students.
Latham also reflected on the significance of the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons, named in honor of the renowned Hawaiian scholar, educator, composer and author who taught at Punahou in the 1930s and helped establish the School’s ʻike Hawaiʻi curriculum. The 53,300-square-foot interdisciplinary hub brings together the Cooke Library Collection, Punahou Archives and spaces for computer science, design, engineering, food, technology and hands-on learning. Throughout the building, Pukui’s legacy connects Punahou’s history and culture with new opportunities for students to explore, create and collaborate.
During his remarks, Latham introduced this year’s Chapel theme, “Pūpūkahi I Holomua,” which speaks to moving forward together in unity. He encouraged students to recognize their own value while helping others feel valued and connected.
Senior Class President Kenton Chan ’27 then urged students to approach the year with purpose, reminding his peers that motion without purpose is not progress and challenging them to find a cause larger than themselves.
Convocation concluded with the Punahou traditions of “Oahu a” and “Strawberry Shortcake,” officially ushering in a new school year and a new chapter for the School community.