Every year on December 19, the students and alumni of Kamehameha Schools celebrate the birth of our founder Ke Aliʻi Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Pauahi is one of the most important figures of Hawaiian history because she used her lands and money to create the Kamehameha Schools- an institution to educate keiki of Hawaiian descent. Her generosity and love for her people has continued to bless the people of Hawaiʻi nearly 200 years later. On Founder’s Day, all 5,416 KS students come together to honor and thank Pauahi for the blessings and resources she has provided through mele (song), oli (chant) and hula. Although I’m no longer a student, I was lucky enough to attend the alumni luncheon with some of my best friends. A full (and free!!) Hawaiian food buffet was provided and seeing my classmates was a great way to kick off the holiday week. I’m thankful to Pauahi for providing me with an excellent education, countless opportunities and friendships that I will cherish forever. Hauʻoli lā hānau e ke aliʻi Pauahi! I’m forever indebted to you.