“Everybody should have a chance to be a superhero… that’s kind of my saying. Everyone should have a red cape.”

Those are the inspiring words of one retiring Lower School counselor who will be dearly missed. With 19 years in public education and another 22 years of service at ‘Iolani, Mrs. Deanne Kanekuni has been a devoted champion of kindness for Lower School kids through her warmth and empathetic presence.

Her signature “red cape” is a real costume that she holds for her favorite ‘Iolani tradition, dress-up days, and it’s also symbolic of her mission to make her “honored guests” feel comfortable. “You want to make them feel like [‘Iolani] is their space too; this is where they can be themselves,” Mrs. Kanekuni said.

This goal is reflected in the students she has worked with, inspiring glowing reviews of her character: Hana P. ’31 said, “She can relate to me if I’m feeling bad,” and described her as both extremely helpful and kind. Eyan T. ’29 shared, “Mrs. Kanekuni was and still is the kindest, most compassionate and hardworking person I know. Her work completely changed my perspective during hard times.”

Mrs. Kanekuni has also left a mark on her colleagues. Fellow counselor Mrs. Emilyann Shupe also said, “I think she’s one of those special people that you don’t forget. There have been many sons and daughters who as juniors and seniors just seem so happy to see her again. I can tell she’s made such a big impact on so many children.” Another counselor, Mrs. Jamie Shoma Loo said, “Deanne has been more than just a colleague—she has been our role model, mentor, and the sweet ‘Aunty’ of our counseling department, who represents all that “One Team” stands for.”

Although Mrs. Kanekuni originally fell into the position through a newspaper notice, she knew ‘Iolani was a special place almost immediately. After being able to draw on prior experiences to help some ‘Iolani kids in grief after losing their moms, Mrs Kanekuni said, “It felt like God was telling me I’m supposed to go do this thing.”

And do it she did. Throughout her 22 years at ‘Iolani, she has been a dedicated warrior for countless Lower Schoolers. Mrs. Shupe said, “Deanne has always been someone I know I can go to for children’s advocacy… and our whole office can rely on her for warmth and wisdom from her many years of experience.”

Even though Mrs. Kanekuni feels like it’s the right time and looks forward to enjoying some post-retirement golf, among other things, she still plans on coming back to ’Iolani occasionally to catch up with old friends, volunteer with the 2nd and 3rd grade prayer group, and help out with the school’s kalo garden, which her sister originally donated.

Mrs. Kanekuni will be dearly missed, yet her impact on the ‘Iolani community will continue on. Tsuchiyama said, “While she will soon be leaving our ‘Iolani ‘ohana, her legacy as a great teacher and mentor will forever be in everyone’s hearts.”