News Release
First Hawaiian Bank Donates $100,000 to Parker School to Help Fund Purchase of School Buses
Honolulu, November 22, 2023 - First Hawaiian Bank’s (FHB) Foundation announced today that it has donated $100,000 over two years to Parker School in Waimea, Hawaii Island towards the purchase of two school buses. A ceremony attended by faculty, students and families, was held at Parker School this morning to bless the buses.
“We are pleased to support Parker School and help fund the purchase of two very much-needed school buses to transport students to athletic competitions and field trip excursions,” said First Hawaiian Bank Chairman, President and CEO Bob Harrison. “Access to both athletic and scholastic opportunities are integral in the educational experiences of all students, and we take pride in knowing that we have played a small role in the procurement of the buses.”
The 15-passenger Chevy Express 3500 buses acquired by Parker School are equipped with a range of features designed to enhance passenger comfort and safety, including seat belts and air conditioning – both of which are new in the Parker School bus fleet.
“Our entire School community is incredibly grateful for this gift,” says Head of School Stephen Dunn. “Given the long distances that our students travel from Waimea’s high elevation for excursions, sporting events, and even to the Kona airport, our buses are heavily used. Now students in every grade can access the unparalleled learning opportunities that Waimea and Hawaii Island offer in vehicles that are safe and reliable.”
Since 2012, First Hawaiian Bank has invested more than $315,000 in Parker School through donations that primarily addressed Parker School capital and financial aid needs. These gifts included table sponsorship for the school’s annual fundraising gala and capital gifts that have been directed towards a media lab building, a mini school bus, construction of the Lower School, and The SMART Center, a 21,000 square-foot multi-use facility, currently under construction.
Parker School, situated in Waimea, Hawaii County, is a distinguished independent, co-educational day school providing a comprehensive college-preparatory program for children in grades K-12. Established in 1976, the school currently has 330 students enrolled, and holds full accreditation from both the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).