A Legacy of Giving
Established in 1887 by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, the Kamehameha Schools Endowment (KSE) is a private trust dedicated to educating Native Hawaiian students. With a current market value exceeding $11.2 billion, it is one of the largest charitable endowments in the world.
Origins and Mission
Princess Bishop’s vision was to establish a perpetual endowment to provide scholarships and other educational opportunities to Native Hawaiian children. She believed that education was essential for the cultural and economic empowerment of her people.
Growth and Impact
Over the decades, KSE has grown significantly, thanks to sound investment strategies and contributions from generous donors. The endowment has had a profound impact on the lives of countless Native Hawaiian students, providing them with access to quality education and empowering them to become leaders in their communities.
Sustainable Investment Philosophy
KSE adheres to a sustainable investment philosophy, balancing financial returns with social and environmental responsibility. It invests in companies that share its values and contribute to the well-being of the Native Hawaiian community.
Educational Initiatives
KSE supports a wide range of educational initiatives, including:
- Scholarships and financial aid for Native Hawaiian students at all levels of education
- Funding for Kamehameha Schools, a system of educational institutions serving Native Hawaiians from preschool to high school
- Programs that promote Hawaiian culture and values, including language, history, and the arts
Beyond Education
In recent years, KSE has expanded its mission to address the broader needs of the Native Hawaiian community. It invests in:
- Affordable housing
- Healthcare
- Economic development
- Environmental stewardship
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
KSE encourages innovation and entrepreneurship within the Native Hawaiian community. It supports:
- Startups and businesses that create jobs and economic opportunities
- Programs that foster innovation and creativity
- Collaborations with universities and research institutions to develop new technologies and solutions
Measuring Impact
KSE tracks its impact through a variety of metrics, including:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of students receiving scholarships | Over 4,500 annually |
| Amount of financial aid awarded | Over $100 million annually |
| Graduation rates of Kamehameha Schools students | Consistently higher than state and national averages |
| Number of Native Hawaiian businesses supported | Over 200 |
| Acres of land protected for conservation | Over 250,000 |
Future Directions
As the Native Hawaiian community evolves, KSE continues to adapt and innovate to meet its changing needs. It is exploring:
- New investment opportunities that align with its mission
- Partnerships with other organizations to expand its reach and impact
- Programs that empower Native Hawaiians to address the challenges facing their communities
A Lasting Legacy
The Kamehameha Schools Endowment is a remarkable testament to the foresight and generosity of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Its enduring legacy is to ensure the educational and economic well-being of the Native Hawaiian people for generations to come.
