'Iolani School Podcast

Having learned in the spaces that he's now teaching in, Manny Dayao '97 shares his unique perspective on the performing arts at 'Iolani School. As the director of the marching band and current head of the Performing Arts Department, he stewards traditions of excellence established by the late Wayne DeMello, who was his teacher, colleague and friend. While sitting in a band room filled with trophies, he also explains why a letter written to his wind ensemble a decade ago is among his most valued possessions. Please subscribe to the 'Iolani School Podcast. Mahalo!

A native of Seoul, South Korea, Andrew Park '22 arrived at 'Iolani in 2018, as a member of the school's first cohort of boarding students in 59 years. Two days before graduating as one of the Class of 2022 valedictorians, he shares an insider's perspective on the boarding program. He also talks about his experiences with the 'Iolani robotics team and what is was like to be accepted to his dream college, Stanford University. Please subscribe to the 'Iolani School Podcast. Mahalo!

For the past three decades, every visitor to the College Counseling Office has been greeted by Sue Lee. No matter who you are or what you are looking for, she's there to help. Often times, "Aunty Sue" knows what you need before you ask. During this heartwarming discussion, she shares priceless stories about Eddie Hamada and others who helped shape our school's culture, and talks about all the people who continue to make 'Iolani such a special community.

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Upper School English teacher Lisa-Anne Tsuruda is also the co-advisor of the Class of 2022. Prior to joining the 'Iolani faculty in 2016, she was honored with the prestigious Milken Educator Award while teaching at Mililani High School. Her son Ryan Tsuruda is a member of the Class of 2022, one of three senior proconsuls and one of the football team's four co-captains. Tears of joy and gratitude were shed as a wide variety of topics were discussed during this heartfelt conversation. Please subscribe to the 'Iolani School Podcast. Mahalo!

An integral member of the 'Iolani School community since 2001, Melanie Pfingsten is in her first year as Dean of Lower School. While overseeing our K-6 campus, which has exciting new spaces and continues to be transformed, she is also a parent of two Lower Schoolers. Previously, she was our Dean of Studies, a K-12 administrative position, after serving several years as a history teacher in the Upper School.

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A beloved member of the 'Iolani School faculty since 1984, Dr. Michael LaGory has contributed to our community in many special ways and hundreds of graduates regard him as their favorite English teacher. He shares amusing stories about growing up in Ewa Beach, his college years in California and the projects he has worked on to support 'Iolani and its students.

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Before heading to Georgetown University, John Vierra '21 shares his message of "small things that make big impacts." A remarkable young man, who has contributed to our community in so many special ways, he also talks about his 13-year journey through 'Iolani School, what goes into being a valedictorian and his love affair with golf.

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In addition to providing a delicious and diverse menu, Mr. Kevin Wada and his dedicated staff organized and implemented new food service procedures that were an integral part of the campus reopening plan in September of 2020. Of course, one of the many topics discussed is the overwhelming popularity of 'Iolani School's mochiko chicken. The Sodexo general manager is also a talented performer and grateful 'Iolani parent.

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A trailblazing educator, Mrs. Lisa Lee Simon '88 teaches "creative movement" to our youngest students in the new Sidney & Minnie Kosasa Performance Studios. She discusses the process within her curriculum and her deep passion for teaching. Of course, she also shares special stories and insight about her father, Mr. William Y.S. Lee '53, the legendary former Upper School Dean of Students.

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Teaching design and technology to our youngest students in the new Kaneshiro Science & Innovation Center is Mr. Michael Fricano's dream job. An award-winning educator, his impact is further magnified since he also assists fellow teachers, helping them become comfortable with new technologies, which was particularly important in 2020, during preparations for distance learning.

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