September 26, 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 Kamehameha Schools' founder – Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, great granddaughter of Kamehameha the Great.
Order of Ke Ali'i Pauahi Recipients:
Roy Leonard Benham, passionate educator, servant leader and Hawaiian culture advocate whose life's work has positively impacted Hawai'i youth and kupuna for over five decades.
Mary Malia Craver, dedicated mentor, spiritual advisor, traditional healer and haku ho'oponopono who has devoted her life toward helping others through Native Hawaiian methods and practices.
Ku Kahakalau, Ph.D., educator, innovator and Hawaiian culturist, who has changed and enlightened the lives of thousands of Hawai'i's youth while advocating for the betterment of all of Hawai'i's people.
The Order of Ke Ali'i was established in 1953 to honor individuals who have been unselfish in their time, dedication and service to Kamehameha Schools. A total of 62 individuals have been recognized since the inception of the award. 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.
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.
For more information about the event, please contact Elizabeth Ahana at (808) 534-3872 or elahana@ksbe.edu.
Kamehameha Schools is a statewide educational system founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Currently, more than 6,500 students of Hawaiian ancestry are enrolled in K-12 campuses on three islands and at more than 30 preschool sites statewide. Kamehameha Schools also serves thousands of other Hawaiian learners each year through a range of outreach programs, community collaborations and financial aid opportunities in Hawai'i and across the continental United States.
Note: Detailed bios and photos (JPG format) of the awardees are available upon request.
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
