I am thrilled to step into the role of President of the Hawaii State Bar Foundation, and I can't wait to get started on this journey of service with all of you. It's an honor to have the opportunity to lead such a distinguished organization.
Before accepting this responsibility, I took some time to reflect on the leadership of those that have come before me and the philanthropic impact of the Foundation as a whole.
In recent memory alone, and in addition to our “core mission” of contributing funding to HSBA service projects and programs, HSBF has been able to play a major role in promoting racial justice, supporting DEI initiatives, funding pandemic legal assistance programs, and contributing to the Maui Wildfire response efforts. All of which are made possible only through the dedication and passion of an amazing Board of Directors and an incredibly generous Bar. That HSBF has been able to thrive and create meaningful change is a true testament to the fact that together, we have the power to make a real difference in the lives of our communities and each other.
One of my primary goals as President will be to foster a sense of unity and collaboration within our legal community. By working together, we can leverage our collective talents and expertise to address the challenges facing our profession and our society. I believe that by listening to each other, respecting diverse perspectives, and embracing innovation, we can find creative solutions to even the most complex issues.
I also want to take this opportunity to honor Pat Mau Shimizu for all of the work she put into supporting and fostering the Foundation and the vision she had for the Bar as a whole. Although she is no longer with us, those of us who had the privilege to know her are infinitely better for that opportunity. Her legacy lives on in each of us, in the many Bar programs she started and grew, and especially in the HSBA Leadership Institute, which continues to prove an incredible environment for aspiring legal professionals.
In closing, I want to express my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you for your commitment to the Foundation and our profession. I'm honored to serve as your President, and I'm excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Let's work together to make the most of them.