It was hard not to be impressed by the five cultural and educational giants in their fields being honored at the 49th annual “Living Treasures of Hawaii” luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Hundreds attended the program to pay tribute to the accomplishments of the honorees who, over the years, have shared their knowledge and devotion to their fields with colleagues and students, a selfless act of generosity that will likely influence generations for decades.
Honorees at the conclusion of the event: Julian Keikilani Ako, Douglas D.L. Chong, Sarah ‘Ilialoha Ayat Quick Keahi, Davianna Pōmaika’i McGregor, Ricardo D. Trimillos
Venue: Coral Ballroom at Hilton Hawaiian Village
Venue: Coral Ballroom at Hilton Hawaiian Village
Video screens provided an enlarged view of the stage
Co-Emcee Dennis Sekine and event volunteer Sharyn Sekine
Our valued event volunteers at the check-in tables
Three of the Living Treasures Committee members: Cindy, JoAnn, and Jon (chair)
Table set for the luncheon
Centerpieces by Ann NakataUse arrows at the edge of the photos to go forward or back.
Through personalized video presentations, the audience heard stories from their often humble beginnings to their inspiring achievements.
The stellar lineup of 2024’s honorees were Julian Keikilani Ako, Douglas D.L. Chong, Dr. Davianna Pomaika’i McGregor, Dr. Ricardo D. Trimillos and Sarah ‘Ilialoha Ayat Quick Keahi. Detailed information on this year’s honorees is available in a posted press release.
Bishop Toshiyuki Umitani and President Dr. Warren Tamamoto presented each recipient with certificates of acknowledgment and personalized calligraphy made by one of last year’s Living Treasures, calligraphy master Hiromi Peterson.
Several previous “Living Treasures” recipients were in attendance, a fitting acknowledgment to welcome 2024’s honorees to the fold.
Now it is time to consider the call for next year’s golden anniversary, the 50th annual celebration. And while the Aug. 1 deadline may seem several months away, the nominees, whether individually or by organization, need to submit a maximum of three letters to support the nomination.
Forms may be obtained either from Living Treasures web page or in person from Headquarters Office at 1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96813. The form includes details on the history, purpose, procedure, and criteria for selection.