Blog - PCC Legacy

Forged in Strength, Filled with Grace: A Woman’s Path to Peace

Grace Tueli is known for her infectious smile, warm personality, and ability to brighten any room she enters. A former beauty queen, honors graduate of Brigham Young University–Hawaii, and Spirit of Aloha Award recipient, she appears to embody success. Yet behind those achievements is a story of sacrifice, resilience, and transformation. From a career in air traffic control in Fiji to becoming a devoted wife, mother, and student, Grace’s journey has been shaped by faith, difficult choices, and a commitment to growth. Her story is a testament to the power of change, family, and trusting God’s plan.

Adding live animals to the PCC villages

Long before roaming chickens became a common sight in Laie, Uncle David Hannemann experimented with bringing Polynesian village life to PCC through live animals, creating memorable—and sometimes noisy—attractions.

Foley first job at pcc

Legacy content creator Mike Foley, the first student-stage manager at the PCC, describes some of the things he and the stage crew had to do in the late 1960s.

Elvis and his impact on PCC canoes

Few people realize that Elvis Presley, the famous “king of rock and roll,” helped shape one of the Polynesian Cultural Center most popular traditions — our iconic canoe tour and special; and some of those who do, are mis-remembering his “wedding canoe” ride.

Cast shared more than aloha with Jack Regas

These short stories come straight from the voice of our beloved Governor, Jimmy Mapu. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of personality, Jimmy shares moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and feel the spirit of the Polynesian Cultural Center. Each story is a small glimpse into life at the Center—told the way only the Governor can tell it.

Talk-story with Lokelani Lindsey

Read about Lokelani Lindsey, who previously danced with the CCH Polynesian Panorama group in Waikiki before joining the original PCC night show cast as a dancer.

Graduation Party for President Alfred Grace

Honoring a legacy of leadership and aloha ✨
Last Wednesday, April 22, 2026, the employees of the Polynesian Cultural Center celebrated CEO & President Alfred Grace— a leader whose vision, dedication and heart have shaped the Center’s good standing and uplifted generations through countless experiences.
President Grace is the long-serving president and CEO of the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in Laie, Hawaii. He is set to retire on May 1, 2026, after holding the position since December 2012. A New Zealand native and former BYU-Hawaii student, Grace previously worked as a student worker before leading the organization.
Mahalo for your service, your guidance, and the impact you left behind. Wishing you all the best in this new chapter.
A hui hou, President Alfred Grace!

Guided by Faith: Almay’s Journey to Purpose at the PCC

Guided by faith and shaped through unexpected trials, Almay Velasco’s journey from Cebu, Philippines, to the Polynesian Cultural Center reflects resilience, gratitude, and trust in God’s plan. As a student at Brigham Young University–Hawaii and a lead tour guide, Almay has faced life-changing storms, family hardship, and moments of uncertainty that deepened her faith and strengthened her desire to serve others. Through every challenge, she learned to embrace patience, remain open to God’s guidance, and lead with compassion—principles that now shape the way she creates meaningful experiences for guests from around the world.

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