The air in the Pacific Northwest usually carries the scent of evergreen and rain, but for two nights in late February, it was transformed. On February 27 in Seattle and February 28 in Portland, the fragrance of fresh plumeria permeated through the typical chill, celebrating a historic milestone: 100 years of the Punahou Alumni Lū‘au.
The Punahou Alumni Association Northwest (PAANW) hosted nearly 150 alumni and friends across the two cities, bridging the distance between the islands and the West Coast with a profound sense of ‘ohana. As guests arrived, the evening began with a lei-making activity. Fingers strung together blossoms as old classmates reconnected and new friendships were made.
The dinner was a nostalgic feast. Plates were piled high with the comforting flavors of home: smoky kālua pig and refreshing lomi salmon. However, the true showstopper was a delivery straight from the buff ’n blue heart of campus – our legendary caramel cuts. The buttery, sugary treasure was enough to instantly transport alumni back to having snacks under a banyan tree.
Alumni in the Pacific Northwest participated in a fun lei-making activity and conversation with President Mike Latham ’86.
For an evening, Puns were transported back to campus, with Hawaiian music, lei and a delicious lū‘au feast
Between sets of graceful hula and stirring mele, PAANW leaders Laura Genoves ’84 (Seattle) and Bleu Blakslee ’87 (Portland) took the stage. Their updates on regional happenings painted a picture of a vibrant, active alumni network that remains deeply rooted despite the distance.
The evening’s keynote came from Punahou President Mike Latham ’86. He shared exciting news: the near completion of the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons (formerly Cooke Library). President Latham also looked toward the future, outlining strategic priorities that position Punahou at the forefront of global education. He discussed the Davis Democracy Initiative, the School’s proactive Climate Action Plan, and the thoughtful navigation of teaching and learning in an AI-driven world.
As the music faded and the last of the lei were draped around necks, the spirit of Punahou remained palpable. The 100th anniversary of the Alumni Lū‘au wasn’t just a celebration of a meal or a tradition; it was a testament to a century of community bonds.
– By Doug Rigg ’84