Reunion committee members from classes ending in 3s and 8s revved up their planning at a pau hana event designed to inspire and ignite their passion for Punahou leading up to Alumni Week.
The Inspire! event began with tours of the Kosasa Neighborhood for Grades 2 – 5 before settling into a short program and meal at the President’s Pavilion. Vice President of Institutional Advancement Noelehua Lyons ’91 Archambault previewed the upcoming renovation of the Academy Learning Commons and Director of Annual Giving Kirsten Spilker shared about Giving Day on April 6.
One of the evening’s highlights was a presentation given by two Punahou seniors, Jules Morali ’23 and Aidan Fraiola ’23, who shared about how their Punahou experience has enriched their lives.
Both seniors spoke about taking advantage of opportunities and experiences offered by Punahou and expressed gratitude for their parents, teachers and classmates.
“I didn’t know what I was passionate about during my first year here. Punahou’s wide variety of student-led clubs and traditional courses and other resources and opportunities have helped me discover my passions,” said Morali. “I’ve been part of clubs such as mock trial, beach cleanups and Girls in the Wilderness, and these clubs have helped me gain experience and possible career paths and discover how I can live more sustainably and inspire others to do the same.”
“Punahou has made a difference in nearly every aspect of my life – from the classroom, to the canoe, to the stage and beyond,” reflected Fraiola. “Punahou’s new mission states that ‘from under the hala tree, we weave a mat that seats many – our home to dream and discover our purpose and kuleana to Hawai‘i and around the world.’ We truly believe that when we graduate in a few months time, that Punahou has prepared us to live meaningful and fulfilling lives, perhaps finding that we too will be sitting in the seats that you find yourselves in now.”
Reunion committees have been planning for Alumni Week since last fall. They are finalizing details on activities and events and reaching out to classmates to participate in their Class Gift. Registration for Alumni Week opens March 8.