Island Pacific Academy’s 20 Years of Excellence Gala, presented by First Hawaiian Bank, on February 8, 2025, was an evening filled with celebration, gratitude, and vision for the future. Held at the Four Seasons Resort Oʻahu at Ko Olina in a more intimate setting than past galas, this year’s event was a special gathering as we marked two decades of inspiring students to lead with confidence and compassion. We also took a bold step forward with the launch of our Families and the Future Campaign. This $3-million initiative will provide critical support for our Families and the Future Endowed Fund and the Navigator Fund, ensuring our commitment to student success for generations to come.
Honoring Those Who Pave the Way
A highlight of the evening was recognizing three honorees whose generosity has helped shape IPA’s future by establishing and supporting vital endowments:
Dr. Dan & Judy White – I Mua Me Ka Haʻaheo Faculty & Staff Endowed Fund
Founders of IPA and its first Head of School, Dr. Dan and Judy White, created this fund in honor of the school’s 20th anniversary. Their dedication to faculty and staff salaries and professional development ensures the continued excellence of IPA’s educators, whose unwavering support makes the school’s mission possible.
The Wilhelm ‘Ohana – The Hisako Wilhelm Endowed Scholarship
Established in honor of Lance Wilhelm’s late mother, The Hisako Wilhelm Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance to students from single-parent households. As a founding member and Emeritus Trustee, Lance, along with his wife, Marcy, remain deeply committed to making IPA’s values-driven, college preparatory experience accessible to all. Their daughter, Kate ’20, is an IPA alumna, further deepening the family’s connection to the school.
Kalaeloa Partners, L.P. – Families & the Future Endowed Fund
Led by General Manager Hans (Ruedi) Tobler, Kalaeloa Partners, L.P. was the first major donor to support this newly established fund with the largest single gift IPA has received in its 20-year history. Their incredible generosity will provide financial assistance for students, ensuring that IPA remains a beacon of excellence in education for years to come.
A Night of Generosity and Impact
Thanks to the incredible support of our sponsors, guests, and donors, the event raised more than $110,000 to support tuition aid and student programs. We extend our deepest appreciation to First Hawaiian Bank, our Exclusive Presenting Sponsor, as well as our Kapena Level Sponsor, Kalaeloa Partners, LP. Mahalo to all of our generous sponsors, and to all who contributed during the Mission Moment, reaffirming their commitment to the future of IPA students.
Words of Inspiration
Throughout the evening, our school leaders expressed heartfelt gratitude and reinforced the profound impact of the collective generosity of IPA’s supporters.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only 20 years of remarkable achievements but we also embrace a pivotal step into our future with the Families and the Future Campaign,” shared Head of School Gerald Teramae. “Your presence and contributions fuel our ability to ensure no promising student is turned away due to financial constraints. Together, we will continue to make a difference, ensuring Island Pacific Academy remains a beacon of excellence and a cornerstone of our community in West Oʻahu.”
Katherine Jones, Director of Advancement, reflected on the transformational power of education. “Just as a garden cannot flourish without healthy soil, our school cannot continue to grow without the support of those who believe in our mission,” she shared. “The Navigator Fund and our Families and the Future Campaign serve as the foundation that allows us to cultivate this growth. When you contribute to these funds, you become an essential part of this garden – helping us provide the nourishment our students need to take root, rise, and reach their full potential.”
A Spotlight on Our Student Emcees
The evening’s program was expertly guided by student emcees Connor Koyano ‘25 and Thayleah Hall ‘26, who brought energy, humor, and poise to the event. Their engaging presence and confidence on stage exemplified IPA’s values, making them outstanding representatives of our school community.
Looking Ahead
As we close this milestone celebration, we look forward with enthusiasm and determination. The Families and the Future Campaign is just beginning, and with the continued support of our incredible community, we are confident in our ability to provide a world-class education for every student who walks through our doors.
Mahalo for being part of our journey. Here’s to the next 20 years of excellence!
How You Can Make a Difference
Join us in shaping the future of Island Pacific Academy! Your support of the Families and the Future Campaign ensures that IPA continues to provide an exceptional education for generations to come. To make a gift or learn more about our initiatives, visit https://www.ipafamiliesandthefuture.org or contact our Advancement Office at [email protected].
Together, we navigate toward a brighter future!
