May 30, 2012
Contributed by ksinfo
"I am deeply honored and touched to have been awarded the Ke Ali'i Pauahi Medal," said Dr. Chun. "I understand the significance and high honor this award carries, as I have had the honor and opportunity to be on the selection committee for past recipients. This award is very, very special."
Dr. Chun will be retiring from his post as President and Headmaster of KS' flagship campus on June 30, 2012. The award, whose last recipients were Malia Craver, Roy Benham and Kū Kahakalau in 2006, has honored individuals who have been unselfish in their gift of time, dedication and service to Kamehameha Schools since 1956.
"Words cannot adequately express my gratitude to the Board of Trustees, Dee Jay and the institution for honoring me with this award," Dr Chun added. "I am blessed to be one of many stewards who have served Kamehameha Schools and its mission for the past 125 years – it is on behalf of all, including those who have walked with me over the last 24 years that I accept this important honor. I will never forget that special moment and the generosity of spirit with which this award was given."
Since the Award's inception, other recipients have included Frank E. Midkiff, Gladys A. Brandt, Daniel K. Akaka and Isabella Aiona Abbott. In 2003, the award was extended beyond the Kamehameha Schools 'ohana to recognize individuals who have made the extraordinary lifetime contributions to the Hawaiian community and exemplify the values and vision of Ke Ali'i Bernice Pauahi Bishop.
Kamehameha Schools is a private, educational, charitable trust founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. The year 2012 marks the 125th anniversary of the opening of Kamehameha Schools, which today operates a statewide educational system enrolling over 6,900 students of Hawaiian ancestry at K-12 campuses on O'ahu, Maui and Hawai'i and 31 preschool sites statewide. Over 40,000 additional Hawaiian learners and caregivers are served each year through a range of other Kamehameha Schools' outreach programs, community collaborations and financial aid opportunities in Hawai'i and across the continental United States.