When good people gather for a good cause, everybody wins. On the evening of March 5, a fundraiser for ‘Iolani School was held, bringing more than 350 friends to Waialae Country Club for “When in Rome.”  Proceeds from the Italian-themed event benefited the financial aid program of ‘Iolani.

Headmaster Dr. Val Iwashita ’67 and his wife Cynthia served as honorary chairs, and lent their support to the evening many ways, not least by acting as welcoming hosts and engaging table partners. Event chair Carin Lim contributed countless hours of her time working in cooperation with the offices of the ‘Iolani Fair and Institutional Advancement.

The guests were welcomed by costumed students of the ‘Iolani Dramatic Players who also performed a rousing version of “We Open in Venice” from the school’s spring musical, Kiss Me, Kate. After strolling through an Italian marketplace, guests passed from an outdoor café to the indoor décor of an Italian opera house, complete with accordions and High Cs.

A robust silent auction together with an exciting live auction found bidders for exquisite glass art by ‘Iolani’s longtime art teacher Dave Roberts, dinner at the Headmaster’s house, wine tasting and, naturally, a trip to Rome. Director of Institutional Advancment Jane Heimerdinger and fair coordinator Amy Tomisato extended their gratitude to all donors and volunteers who contributed time, talent and gifts.

The ultimate success of an evening that grossed nearly $196,000 for the students of ‘Iolani, rested with the gracious and giving guests, good people who came together for a good cause and a gala evening.

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