April 21, 2006
Contributed by Liz Ahana
The Order of Ke Ali'i Pauahi is the highest and most distinguished award given to those who have exemplified the vision of the Kamehameha Schools' founder – Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, great granddaughter of Kamehameha the Great.
The award was established in 1956 to honor individuals who have been unselfish in their gifts of time, dedication and service to Kamehameha Schools. A total of 65 individuals have been recognized since the inception of the award.
As of 2003, the awards have been extended beyond the Kamehameha Schools 'ohana to recognize individuals who have made extraordinary lifetime contributions to the community and exemplify the values and vision of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.
Criteria for the award align with Kamehameha Schools' 2000-2015 Strategic Plan of extending its reach to more Hawaiians in the community. The Order of Ke Ali'i Pauahi now recognizes those whose efforts have positively impacted the Hawaiian community.
Nomination forms are available online at www.ksbe.edu or you may call (808) 534-3803 to request a nomination packet. Nominations must be submitted no later than May 19.
Nominees are evaluated on qualities of character and leadership consistent with the spirit of Ke Ali'i Pauahi; contributions or service to the Hawaiian community; and personal and professional achievements. Nominees need not be Hawaiian, a Hawai'i resident, or a Kamehameha Schools alumnus.
Kamehameha Schools is a private charitable trust founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop and is the sole beneficiary of the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Estate. Kamehameha Schools operates a statewide educational system and currently more than 5,400 students of Hawaiian ancestry are enrolled in K-12 campuses on three islands and at more than 30 preschool sites statewide. Thousands of additional Hawaiian learners are served through a range of other Kamehameha Schools' outreach programs, distance learning programming, community collaborations and financial aid opportunities in Hawai'i and across the continental United States.