A Living Symbol of Hope: The Planting of the Puakenikeni Tree

The ceremony, held in the Friendship Garden, was a moving tribute to the memories held in our hearts and a forward-looking step toward a brighter future.

The Puakenikeni, meaning "ten-cent flower," is cherished for its fragrant blossoms, which are often used in lei to symbolize love and honor. The flower’s transformation from creamy white to a beautiful golden orange as it matures serves as a poignant metaphor for the community’s own journey. As Dr. Solis, the Head of School, explained, "We have bent but not broken, and we continue to grow stronger."

The "Tree of Hope," as it's been named, will stand as a testament to resilience , community, and hope. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of loss, something new and beautiful can take root and flourish.

The ceremony included a moment of silence to honor those we hold in our hearts, followed by heartfelt words from students Mia Tenorio, Kai Smith, and Lehua Wilson,who shared simple yet profound sayings, while an senior student, Kellen Cordero-Fernandez, recited a powerful poem that beautifully captured the community's experience of weathering the storm and reaching for the sun again.

The ceremony concluded with a collective act of planting. Participants, from the Head of School to students and staff, took turns adding a scoop of dirt to the tree's base. Dr. Solis encouraged everyone to silently think of one thing they were hopeful for, turning the simple act of planting into a shared expression of collective hope.

As Dr. Solis noted, this tree will stand in the Friendship Garden for generations, its fragrance and beauty serving as a constant reminder of the strength, unity, and love that have carried the community this far.