Aloha,
As we reflect on the UH Foundation’s mission, one truth stands out: philanthropy doesn’t happen by accident. It is deliberate, intentional work, and we are increasingly seeing what that vision makes possible.
Inside this issue of Kūpono, you’ll see what intentional giving looks like in action. We are honored to share stories of work that is making a difference across our islands, including:
The Hale Pāpa‘i Initiative at UH Maui College: a program started after community pleas for help due to the West Maui wildfires.
The ‘Ēlama and Hilo One Scholarships on Hawai‘i Island: vital programs that break down financial and social barriers, allowing local residents to attend Hawai‘i Community College and transforming their futures right in their own backyard.
We view our work as a profound privilege. Beyond managing financial resources, we are stewards of trust and hope. You are funding groundbreaking research, creating accessible pathways to education and directly addressing Hawai‘i’s workforce needs.
Thank you for your trust, your generosity and your unwavering commitment to our students and our state.
Tim Dolan
UH Foundation CEO and
UH VP of Advancement
Featured Stories
Gridiron ties and family pride: Mark Robison’s legacy as a lifelong ʻBow
In 1973, Mark Robison accepted an unexpected invitation to play football for UH. He recently cemented his dedication to UH Athletics with a $270K gift to the NIL fund. »
Future telehealth for the ocean: 'Reef halos' enable global checkups
Learn more about how UH Mānoa researcher Elizabeth Madin has discovered a new way to monitor the health of the world's oceans from above. »
A lifeline for students: UH West O‘ahu’s Basic Needs Program
Balancing college and living expenses is a growing challenge, but UH West O‘ahu’s Kumu Ola – Basic Needs Center is providing a crucial safety net. »
Hale Pāpaʻi: Tiny structures deliver mighty impact
In the wake of the devastating Lahaina wildfires, UH Maui College launched Hale Pāpa'i—a hands-on construction initiative designed to help the community recover and rebuild. »
Dr. Steven Nomura’s legacy lives on at JABSOM
He was the “quintessential big brother” who guided his family and quietly funded students' dreams. Now, the late Dr. Steven Nomura’s estate is making an impact at the John A. Burns School of Medicine. »
Meeting them where they are: How the Ēlama Scholarship is a lifeline for students
At Hawaiʻi Community College–Pālamanui, the Ēlama Scholarship is rewriting the narrative for students who might otherwise never step foot in a classroom. »
Photo Galleries
UH Mānoa Scholarship Dinner 2026
O‘ahu Community Colleges Scholarship Celebration Luncheon 2026
More gifts and announcements
Did you know that thousands of U.S. companies offer matching gift programs?
For example:
- Hawai‘i Gas — Matches donations 1:1 up to $500 annually per employee.
- Home Depot — Matches donations 1:1 up to $3,000 annually per employee.
We know that you, our UH donors, care deeply about our students and programs. Your employer may offer an opportunity for you to double your gift impact!
See if your company has a matching gift program by searching our database.
Companies with a matching gift program include:
First Hawaiian Bank
Hawaii Dental Service
HawaiiUSA FCU
Johnson Controls
Macy's
Matson
Omidyar Group
FOR UH • FOR HAWAIʻI, The Campaign for the University of Hawaiʻi, is 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.
