The commencement ceremony for ‘Iolani School’s Class of 2009 marked both the closing of a cherished chapter and the opening of a new journey in the lives of 237 graduates. Held on June 6 in the heart of campus, the event brought together family, friends, teachers, and supporters to witness this momentous occasion.
A Day of Tradition and Inspiration
The ceremony began with an invocation led by The Rev. Daniel L. Leatherman, followed by a heartfelt address from senior class president Rance Fujiwara ’09. Valedictorians Robert Tamai ’09 and Julia Zhang ’09 spoke on behalf of their fellow Scholarship Medal recipients, sharing reflections on growth, friendship, and the shared experiences that defined their ‘Iolani years.
Honoring the enduring bonds of the ‘Iolani community, members of the Class of 1959 returned to campus, celebrated by Headmaster Dr. Val Iwashita ’67 for marking 50 years since their own graduation. This poignant moment highlighted the continuity, fellowship, and lasting impact of an Iolani education.
Recognizing Achievement and Service
Alumni Medals
The Alumni Medals celebrate students who embody excellence in both academics and athletics:
- Robert Tamai ’09
- Jana Tokuhama ’09
Bishop’s Award
The Bishop’s Award honors a graduate who demonstrates unselfish service, faith, and commitment to principle:
- Hanna Pang ’09
Scholarship Medals
Awarded to the 28 valedictorians of the Class of 2009, these students achieved the highest academic distinction from grades nine through twelve:
- Giulia Anderson ’09, Kai Yu Chen ’09, Rance Fujiwara ’09, Elysia Gabe ’09, Lianne Ho ’09, Grant Iwamoto ’09, Amy Ko ’09, Emily Kuo ’09, Jeffrey Kwock ’09, Qingyun (Anya) Liao ’09, Amelia Linsky ’09, Diana Lu ’09, Alyssa Alysson Ochiai ’09, Celia Ou ’09
- Jeffrey Sakamoto ’09, Marrisa Sakoda ’09, Jessica Lynn Saylors ’09, Zachery Simao ’09, Robert Tamai ’09, Eve Tang ’09, Jana Tokuhama ’09, Elysse Tom ’09, Uyanga Tsedev ’09, Thanh Vu ’09, Samuel Wechsler ’09, Sean Yancey ’09, Craig Yugawa ’09, Julia Zhang ’09
Headmaster’s Award
The Headmaster’s Award recognizes exceptional contributions to the school:
- Robert Tamai ’09
Unsung Heroes
Finally, Dr. Iwashita acknowledged the “Unsung Heroes” of the Class of 2009—students whose positive attitude and commitment to community enriched ‘Iolani in countless ways:
- Laurie Nitta ’09, Kyle Shiroma ’09, Chad Kuwana ’09, Chaz Silva ’09, Tyler Yamamoto ’09, Alana Calhoun ’09, Kelly Pang ’09, Erika Kim ’09, Sarah Fang ’09, Angelica Raquel ’09
Looking Ahead
Each graduate leaves ‘Iolani with a unique story, a personal contribution to the school’s legacy, and the promise of a bright future. The Class of 2009 celebrated not only achievement and service but also the shared experiences, friendships, and memories that define the spirit of our community. Now, the next chapter awaits, full of opportunity, growth, and new adventures.