The University of Hawai‘i community is deeply saddened to announce the passing of UH Foundation President Donna M. Howard, who led the organization with distinction during a transformative period in its history
When Howard assumed her role at the UH Foundation in 1994, she took the helm at a pivotal moment in the institution’s history. With a clear vision, a collaborative leadership style and deep respect for education, she transformed the Foundation into a dynamic force for philanthropic growth – one that would leave a lasting impact across the UH 10-campus system.
Howard’s tenure was marked by a remarkable expansion in both the scope and effectiveness of the Foundation’s work. Annual contributions saw a significant increase – a testament to her success in engaging a broad and diverse community of alumni, supporters and stakeholders. Just as impressive was the increase in the value of those gifts: annual giving rose to new levels, fueling scholarships, faculty support and program development across the UH campuses.
“Donna will be remembered by many for all she did for UH leading our Foundation at a critical time when we were becoming serious about creating a culture supportive of philanthropy,” said UH President Emeritus David Lassner. “She continued to be a great supporter of UH even after she retired. When I was appointed President she was one of the first people to open her home to introduce me to community members who could help and she continued to be there for us whenever we needed assistance.”
Howard understood well that philanthropy was more than just fundraising – it was about building meaningful relationships and cultivating trust. She made a point of listening to donors, understanding their motivations and connecting them with opportunities that aligned with their values. She strengthened ties with local businesses, energized alumni engagement and advocated tirelessly for the university’s mission.
Championing transparency and accountability in fundraising, Howard worked diligently to ensure that donors saw the impact of their contributions. Her leadership contributed to a dramatic rise in donor confidence and institutional credibility, essential factors in the Foundation’s long-term success.
During her time as President, the Foundation’s endowment grew substantially, creating a more stable financial future for the university. This growth translated into real-world benefits: more scholarships for deserving students, more endowed positions to attract and retain talented faculty, and more funding for research, innovation and community outreach.
Howard would later establish the Howard-Carhart Scholarship Endowment for Maui students, attributing the reason for her gift as a way of showing her appreciation for Hawai‘i and the university. “Reflecting, I realize how much my family and I owe to the University of Hawai‘i,” she noted about her gift. “Besides the vibrancy UH adds to the cultural life of our Hawai‘i, both my daughter, Kimberly Carhart, and I received our masters degrees from UH. These have prepared us well for our careers. And my nephew, Travis LaBoy, can thank his UH Warrior days for helping launch a successful NFL stint. The University has given us much and we are grateful."
Her impact was felt beyond the balance sheets. Colleagues recall her as a thoughtful, strategic leader – someone who brought both heart and rigor to her role.
“She was a great President,” recalled Jere Nakamura, Director of Gift Processing at UH Foundation. “Donna had a warm, approachable leadership style that made everyone feel valued. She took the time to know people personally and always led with a genuine smile – one that could brighten even the busiest of days. She inspired a sense of purpose in our work and made us feel like we were all part of something meaningful. Her presence will be deeply missed.”
After leaving the University of Hawai‘i Foundation in 1999 to lead the Kapi‘olani Health Foundation, Howard left behind a stronger, more resilient organization and one poised to support the university for generations to come.
Her years at the UH Foundation set a high standard for leadership in university advancement. They also underscored the essential role that philanthropy plays in public higher education – a role Howard helped to define and elevate in Hawai‘i.
FOR UH • FOR HAWAIʻI, The Campaign for the University of Hawaiʻi, is focused on raising $1 billion to support UH priorities on all 10 campuses across the state, including student success; research that matters; kuleana to Native Hawaiians and Hawaiʻi; sustainability, resilience and conservation; innovation and entrepreneurship; building Hawaiʻi’s workforce; and engaging our community. Learn more at uhfoundation.org/4UH4HI
Questions? / More Information
If you would like to learn how you can support UH students and programs like this, please contact us at 808 376-7800 or send us a message.
# # #
The University of Hawai‘i Foundation, a nonprofit organization, raises private funds to support the University of Hawai‘i System. The mission of the University of Hawai‘i Foundation is to unite donors’ passions with the University of Hawai‘i’s aspirations by raising philanthropic support and managing private investments to benefit UH, the people of Hawai‘i and our future generations. uhfoundation.org
