The 2025 Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Polynesian Cultural Center honored three remarkable figures whose achievements reflect the strength, spirit, and legacy of Polynesia. Jim Nicholson, Chris Kemoeatu, and Kalani Sitake were celebrated for their contributions to football and culture, inspiring future generations with their dedication, humility, and deep roots in the Polynesian community.
Directed by Blair Treu, Sharing Aloha offers a heartfelt look into the lives of BYU–Hawaii students behind the Polynesian Cultural Center’s night show. Premiered at the Zions Indie Film Fest, the documentary highlights their cultural journey, sacrifices, and spirit of aloha.
In June 2024, the Polynesian Cultural Center and BYU–Hawaii worked together to prepare and sail the beautiful 57-foot traditional wooden Hawaiian sailing canoe Iosepa to Kualoa to participate in the Pacific Festival gathering of canoes at Kualoa. On its way back to Laie, the Iosepa circumnavigated Oahu.
Many of the Polynesian Cultural Center students who participated in the 1966 mainland promotion to the Hollywood Bowl and Salt Lake City said their visit with President David O. McKay and his wife, Emma, at their home in Huntsville, Utah, was the highlight of the trip.
Hā: Breath of Life premiered on August 14, 2009 — almost 18 years ago — and is the Polynesian Cultural Centerʻs longest-running night show.
Polynesian Cultural Center people have made numerous major achievements beyond normal operations over the years, and one of those is Reg Schwenke turning the Aloha Liberty Foundation into a worldwide story that deserves to be listed in PR case studies.
