Honoring a Legacy of Love and Learning: The Frances “Shima” Shimaura ’63 Bowers Endowment
In the tapestry of Mid-Pacific’s history, certain individuals leave an indelible mark through their dedication, love, and unwavering support. Frances “Shima” Shimaura Bowers ’63 was one such individual whose legacy continues to inspire and support future generations. Her story, shared by her family, reflects the profound impact of philanthropy, continuous support, and planned giving on the Mid-Pacific community.
A Life of Responsibility and Leadership
Frances held cherished memories of her time at Mid-Pacific. Her husband, Stephen, recalls with a smile, “She got in trouble once, well, maybe twice. It was study hall time and she was doing her hair.” More than just a student, Frances was a senator at the school, tasked with ensuring law and order among her peers—a role she took very seriously. This responsibility shaped her character and leadership skills, attributes that stayed with her throughout her life.
Lifelong Connections and Community
Frances valued the friendships and connections she made at Mid-Pacific. Her daughter, Sarah, shares how her mother made lifelong friends as a dormer. “Decades later, this was still a really important place for her. She loved staying connected to her classmates,” Sarah recalls. The sense of community and belonging at Mid-Pacific was a cornerstone of her life and she carried these bonds with her long after graduation.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Frances was a steadfast supporter of Mid-Pacific for over two decades. Her dedication to giving back was rooted in her belief in the value of an independent school education. Stephen reflects, “Hawai‘i is such a remarkable place with people from all over the world. Fran valued the inclusiveness and the diverse community that Mid-Pacific represented.” This inclusiveness, coupled with the opportunities for students from various socio-economic backgrounds, was something Frances deeply appreciated and sought to support.
The Frances Shimaura Bowers ’63 Endowment
When Frances became seriously ill, she wanted to ensure her legacy continued. She and Stephen established the Frances Shimaura Bowers ’63 Endowment to provide financial aid to students in need. Stephen recalls, “When I told her we had this all set up, she just had this look on her face. It was one of the things she really wanted to take care of.” This endowment embodies Frances’s commitment to providing opportunities for students who might otherwise be unable to afford a Mid-Pacific education.
In a meaningful tribute to Frances’s legacy, Stephen has since made an additional planned gift of $250,000 to Mid-Pacific. Reflecting on the significance of this contribution, Shannon Cleary, Vice President of Institutional Advancement remarks, “Planned giving is such a special vehicle for philanthropy. We are grateful for this bequest and the chance to express our gratitude to Stephen now, in the present.”
The Lasting Impact of Philanthropy
Frances’s dedication extended beyond her endowment. She was an active hospice volunteer, known for her empathy and ability to listen without judgment. Stephen remarks, “Fran was one of the most empathetic people I ever met. She understood people’s struggles and was always ready to help.” Her yearbook quote, “A good deed is much more useful than a sermon,” encapsulates her philosophy and the legacy she leaves behind.
Encouraging Future Generations
Frances’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of giving back. Her endowment not only honors her memory, but also provides future generations with the opportunity to thrive at Mid-Pacific. Stephen emphasizes, “Having her name associated with a source of financial assistance for people who otherwise couldn’t afford Mid-Pacific is truly meaningful.”
In a world where education and empathy are more crucial than ever, Frances “Shima” Shimaura Bowers’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her life reminds us of the impact one person can have on their community and the enduring importance of supporting educational institutions.
“My fondest memory of Shima was when she was trying to teach this city girl how to fish. I believe we were camping as a group near her family home. Everyone thought it was so funny because I had never done it before and she didn’t laugh at me, but patiently showed me how. Not successful but great fun! Shima was always a very kind person.” —Gail Goo ‘63 Fujimoto
“Shima was super smart from Haleiwa town, unlike the rest of us. She was very serious in her studies with a nice personality.” —Lynn (Lynnko) Warashina ‘63 Murata
“Nobody called her Frances. She was Shima from Haleiwa, a strict dorm Senator who took her job seriously, yet with compassion for us rule-breakers in Atherton dormitory.” —Karen Kawano ‘63 Koles