A little rain couldn’t dim the moonlight, or the sparkle, at Island Pacific Academy’s Moonlight Speakeasy gala on Saturday, November 8, 2025. As the skies cleared, guests gathered under a beautifully lit tent on the field, where bistro lights and a crystal chandelier set the scene for an evening of celebration, connection, and generosity.
Guests enjoyed specialty cocktails, a delicious dinner, and incredible live entertainment, including smooth jazz by The Dae Han Experience and a captivating performance by Honolulu Classical Ballet. IPA students Braxtyn Montalbo ’26 and Aaron Marks ’27 served as emcees, guiding the evening’s festivities with confidence and charm.
Head of School Gerald Teramae welcomed guests and spoke about the heart of the evening — community, generosity, and the shared belief in the power of education. He highlighted IPA’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, with more than a quarter of students receiving tuition assistance, and thanked supporters for helping make an IPA education possible for families across West Oʻahu.
Before the Mission Moment, Director of Advancement Katherine Jones shared a deeply personal reflection on what it means to live out IPA’s values and the importance of tuition aid in ensuring access and opportunity for students who belong at IPA. The Mission Moment that followed underscored the heart of the evening — supporting the values that define the IPA experience and the students who benefit from them.
The online silent auction, open to both gala guests and those joining from home, featured an array of unique items and experiences, while the live auction offered sought-after getaways including Disney World Wonder, Las Vegas Lights, and Jewel of Mexico Escape trips, as well as a private dinner for six at MW Restaurant hosted by chefs Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka.
Guests also enjoyed themed photobooths and a raffle featuring prizes such as a Big Green Egg grill and a membership to Pickles at Forté. Adding a touch of vintage flair, the Elementary foyer was transformed into a speakeasy-style lounge — an unexpected hideaway where guests could pause, snap photos, and enjoy the atmosphere before returning to the main tent.
Thanks to the generosity and spirit of the IPA ’ohana, Moonlight Speakeasy was an unforgettable night under the stars and a true celebration of community, purpose, and commitment to excellence.
Mahalo to our generous sponsors, guests, volunteers, and IPA staff for helping make this memorable evening possible. Your support continues to strengthen our mission and the students we serve.
Sponsors:
Gatsby – Kalaeloa Partners, LP
Champagne – Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc.; Commercial Plumbing; Domino’s Pizza; First Hawaiian Bank; The Queen’s Health Systems
Velvet – American Floor & Home; Central Pacific Bank; HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union; Ladies Who Launch; Maunakea Integrated Solutions; Nordic PCL Construction, Inc.; Pacific Pump & Power
