At Mid-Pacific, a group of committed high school students is showing what it means to be true changemakers. Through the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Club, these students have worked steadily and purposefully to build a school community that values belonging, respect, and representation for all.
Guided by faculty members Eileen Keane and Kara Hisatake, the DEI Club has taken an active role in shaping student-led advocacy. “Our students are incredibly organized, passionate, and thoughtful,” says Keane. “They don’t just raise concerns; they develop actionable plans, work collaboratively, and keep pushing until real progress is made.”
Founded two years ago, the DEI Club builds on earlier initiatives at the school. Keane and Hisatake have helped students bring structure, focus, and long-term vision to the group. Each year begins with students identifying their priorities, which are then organized into short- and long-term goals. Under this model, student leaders have addressed key issues such as mental health awareness, increasing access to gender-neutral restrooms, updated dress code policies, and DEI training for faculty and staff. These initiatives require thoughtful planning, collaboration, and sustained effort.
“Our students are learning real advocacy skills: how to research, draft proposals, present to administrators and the Board, and follow through,” explains Hisatake. “It’s not just talk; they are taking ownership of these issues.”
A cornerstone of their work is visibility and outreach. The club launched the “Speak Up” initiative to empower students and staff to address bias and discrimination. Members have presented across campus and at national conferences, including the Student Diversity Leadership Conference (SDLC), a prestigious gathering of more than 3,000 students. There, they gained leadership tools and the affirmation that they are not alone in this work. “At SDLC, they saw thousands of others just like them: passionate, courageous, and ready to lead,” says Keane. “It’s empowering in the deepest way.”
In February, nine students and three faculty members attended the Shanti Alliance DEI Conference. DEI Club leaders served as student facilitators and presenters, gaining advocacy skills while working at Kawainui Marsh and learning about peace-making, civic action, and giving back to the community. These experiences empower students to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact.
Throughout the semester, the club expanded its impact across campus. Members are launching affinity groups—safe, supportive spaces for students who share common identities or experiences, such as race, gender, or culture—to build community and promote inclusion. They are also working with school leadership to introduce an anonymous reporting system to foster a safer, more respectful environment. In addition, they have advocated for more inclusive cafeteria options, including working with our Dining Hall General Manager to introduce vegan ramen as a plant-based option for students. Beyond the high school, club members partnered with younger students through book readings and art projects, helping plant the seeds of belonging early.
One standout initiative was the DEI Block Party, led by student Grace H. ’27. The event united clubs across campus to celebrate culture, identity, and community through live music, interactive booths, and shared food. It was a joyful and inclusive event that brought the spirit of belonging to life.
Throughout this work, Keane and Hisatake emphasize that students are the drivers of change. “What’s remarkable is their willingness to stick with difficult issues over time,” says Keane. “Some projects take time, yet our students stay committed, refine their proposals, and collaborate respectfully with faculty and administrators.”
The school’s openness to listening and collaborating has been key. “The administration and Board have been receptive to feedback and have worked with us to make meaningful changes that reflect our school’s commitment to every student’s sense of belonging,” shares Keane.
With a growing roster of 35 active members and a strengthened leadership team, the DEI Club continues to be a model of thoughtful, student-led advocacy. As its initiatives expand, the club remains focused on a simple but powerful goal that aligns with Mid-Pacific’s mission: making Mid-Pacific a place of belonging where every student feels seen, valued, and supported.