The University of Hawaii athletic department introduced a “major giving component,” named after one of its most legendary coaches Wednesday.
The Shoji Society, named in honor of four-time national champion women’s volleyball coach Dave Shoji, will “recognize individuals and organizations making significant commitments” starting with a minimum pledge of $50,000, according to a news release.
It was launched with 10 charter members who have donated $1 million or more at a news conference Wednesday: Waterhouse Charitable Trust, the Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation, the Dr. Alvin and Monica Saake Foundation, Rie Wong and the Edwin S.N. Wong Foundation, Bank of Hawaiʻi, First Hawaiian Bank, Matson, Jack and Frances Tsui, Walter Dods and Gabe and Shirley Lee. Collectively, they have committed over $38,300,000 over 46 years to support UH sports.
“The Shoji Society represents the next step in building a sustainable future for UH Athletics,” UH athletic director Matt Elliott said. “We are incredibly grateful for the individuals and organizations whose generosity and belief in our student-athletes make this possible. College athletics has changed, and long-term philanthropic investment is essential to providing our student-athletes with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. The Shoji Society recognizes those whose commitment will have a lasting impact on Hawaiʻi Athletics for generations.”
UH recently announced the re-branded ‘Bows Athletic Club, which also allows membership for donations as small as $100.
Shoji built one of the most successful programs in college volleyball history in his 42 years as Wahine coach, leading them to more than 1,200 victories. He also helped generate more than $1.3 million in philanthropic support for scholarships and other program needs.
“I am deeply humbled that my name is associated with such a meaningful initiative,” said Shoji said. “What has always made UH Athletics special is the incredible support from our community. Today’s student-athletes face a very different landscape than they did when I was coaching, and philanthropy has become an important part of helping them compete at the highest level while earning a world-class education. I hope this inspires more people to invest in the future of UH Athletics.”
Shoji is the first person to have a major donor group named in their honor in UH sports history.
“Coach Shoji’s success was never measured solely by wins and championships,” Elliott said. “He built a culture of excellence, inspired people to believe in our student-athletes and brought our community together in support of UH Athletics. The Shoji Society honors that legacy while helping ensure future generations of student-athletes have the opportunity to achieve their own success.”
For more about the Shoji Society and other ‘Bows Athletic Club information, go to the UH Athletics website.