I am honored to invite you to become a sponsor of the inaugural gala for The Ro Foundation—an extraordinary evening celebrating music, mentorship, and educational opportunity. The gala will be held on May 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Monarch Room at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

The evening will feature a special performance by legendary Hawaiian icon Robert Cazimero accompanied by the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra—a remarkable collaboration that promises to be both inspiring and unforgettable.

This evening is especially meaningful to me personally. As a proud graduate of Waipahu High School, I had the privilege of founding its Culinary Academy to help create pathways for students to pursue careers in hospitality and the culinary arts. Seeing these students grow in skill and confidence has been one of the great joys of my life’s work.

Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra and Waipahu High School’s Culinary Academy, supporting arts education and hands-on career training for our youth.

Guests will enjoy an exquisite dinner curated by award-winning Chef Jason Peel, prepared in collaboration with the talented culinary students of Waipahu High School. The evening will also feature premium wines and signature cocktails in an elegant setting befitting this landmark occasion.

This inaugural gala represents more than a celebration—it is an investment in our community’s future. Your sponsorship will directly support students, the arts, and meaningful educational opportunities while positioning your organization among respected community leaders and patrons.

I would be deeply grateful for your partnership in launching this signature event for The Ro Foundation. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you personally about sponsorship levels and how we can align this evening with your philanthropic goals.

Thank you for your consideration and for supporting the next generation of leaders and artists in our community.

With gratitude,

Kelvin Ro
Kelvin Ro
Founder, The Ro Foundation

Kamehameha Schools, Oct. 3, 2025

For more than 50 years, chef Kelvin Ro has been a constant presence in Hawai‘i’s food scene. Best known as the owner of Diamond Head Market & Grill, where lines of customers regularly form for his blueberry cream cheese scones and local plate lunches, Ro has built a reputation as a celebrated chef, restaurateur, educator and community leader. Yet his latest chapter is rooted not in the kitchen, but in the soil.

About three years ago, Ro began farming on five acres in Maunalua that he leases from Kamehameha Schools. The land had been primarily used to grow lettuce but was in need of care and renewal...

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