August 7, 2009, at Pearl Country Club felt like the perfect day for a tradition that brings the ‘Iolani community together. Alumni, families, and friends arrived early, clubs in hand, ready to play—and ready to celebrate what makes this event special: camaraderie, community, and a shared love for ‘Iolani School. This year’s tournament raised $32,000…
Month: October 2025
Mahalo and Aloha: Honoring Our Faculty & Staff
The final faculty meeting of the school year carried a special energy. The room buzzed with chatter, laughter, and a touch of bittersweet nostalgia. There is always something unique about these moments. They pause to honor the people who quietly shape the heartbeat of ‘Iolani. Headmaster Dr. Val Iwashita recognized educators who are retiring or…
What You Do With What You Have
There’s a picture in her office at Queen’s Medical Center. Not just another framed memory, but a reminder of a turning point. A woman—injured in the Pentagon attack of 2001—smiles faintly from a hospital bed, her family gathered close. Dr. Elizabeth Ignacio ’89 is beside her, speaking in Tagalog, helping the patient bridge language and…
Inspiration and Insight: Reflecting on Dr. Cathy Bell ’87
When I first heard about Dr. Cathy Bell ’87, I was struck not just by her accomplishments, but by the weight of history she carries. Her great-grandfather, Dr. Alsoberry Kaumualii Hanchett, was the first Hawaiian to graduate from Harvard Medical College in 1914. Her grandfather, The Right Rev. E. Lani Hanchett ’37, became the first…
Class of 2012: Where Their Next Chapter Begins
Every graduating class carries its own story — friendships built, lessons learned, and dreams that slowly shape into plans. For the Class of 2012, those dreams are now scattering across the map as our newest alumni step into the next stage of their journeys: college life. When I look at this list, I see more…
Spring Honors Day: Celebrating the Class of 2009
It was May 29, 2009, when the Class of 2009 gathered in the gymnasium for Spring Honors Day. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and gratitude. Seniors walked proudly, knowing that this moment was more than just about receiving certificates—it was about celebrating years of effort, late nights, challenges, and triumphs. A few days later,…
Celebrating Excellence: Academic Awards & Honors
Every year at ‘Iolani, the dedication of our students shines through in the classroom, on stage, and across the community. Reading the long list of honorees, I couldn’t help but pause and reflect — each name carries a story of persistence, long nights, and the quiet pride of accomplishment. Top Academic Students in Each Grade…
Farewell and Mahalo to “Mr. O”: Celebrating Fred Okumura’s Legacy
At the end of June 2010, Fred Okumura ’65 closed a remarkable 39-year chapter at ‘Iolani School. Beginning as one of the two Upper School counselors, Fred’s dedication and vision soon led him to the role of Dean of the Lower School. Over the decades, his leadership shaped the experiences of countless students, teachers, and…
Around the World in Two Days: The 21st Annual ‘Iolani Fair
This past April 20 and 21, the 21st annual ‘Iolani Fair transported us across continents with the theme Global Getaway. The air was filled with laughter, music, and the smell of everything delicious. There were games for every age, rides that spun and swooped, craft tables, face painting, a general store, a silent auction, and…
One Team, Many Journeys: Remembering the Class of 2012
I can still see it clearly—the way the wind felt that day, soft, almost shy, as if even the trade winds wanted to pause and watch. Graduation has this strange magic about it: one moment you’re still a student, the next you’re already carrying the title of “alum.” I saw it happen with the Class…