The Azure Summit: A Transformational Experience for School Leaders & Advancement Officers

When Noelehua Archambault, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Punahou School in Honolulu, attended The Azure Summit, she came as an observer. With decades of experience in institutional advancement and a deep understanding of Hawaiʻi’s unique philanthropic landscape, Noe was eager to explore how this conference could benefit school leaders in her community. What she experienced was a transformative event that left a lasting impression.

An Immersive Experience

The Summit provided an immersive environment where heads of school and their chief advancement officers worked together to fortify their fundraising strategy. Noe witnessed firsthand how the intimate setting fostered deep connections and breakthrough moments.

“Seeing the relationships between heads of school and their advancement leaders build over the course of two days was one of the great joys of the conference,” she recalled. One moment stood out: A school leader who had been uncertain about their role in fundraising experienced a major shift in understanding. “This individual realized just how important philanthropy was and how vital their role was in shaping the school’s vision. It was exciting to see that happen in real-time.”

Practical and Personalized Guidance

Beyond inspiration, the Summit delivered practical, personalized guidance. Unlike large-scale fundraising conferences, Noe took note of how interactive it was, with tailored support from experts. Participants weren’t just absorbing knowledge—they were actively working on their own strategic plans. “Attendees left with a concrete roadmap, whether it was building general philanthropic support or preparing for a major campaign,” Noe explained.

One of the most significant reinforcements from the Summit was the power of storytelling.

“Having a clear, concise, yet emotive story about your school is everything,” Noe emphasized. “It explains your strategic vision and articulates why your institution needs philanthropic support—not just for today, but for the next 100 years.”

A Summit that Honors the Unique Culture and Philanthropic Landscape in Hawaiʻi

The impact of the Summit extended beyond the conference itself. Inspired by the experience, she and a few of her peers are now adapting the Summit for independent and charter schools in Hawaiʻi, in recognition of its unique cultural and philanthropic dynamics.

For anyone considering attending, Noe’s message is clear:

“The Azure Summit is about developing a transformational case for support that is mission-aligned, strategic, and visionary. It provides a step-by-step approach tailored to your school’s specific needs. The depth of expertise and personalized support you receive here is incomparable.”

As schools navigate an increasingly complex philanthropic landscape, The Azure Summit stands out as an invaluable resource—one that not only builds fundraising skills but also deepens the essential partnership between heads of school and advancement leaders. It is an experience that reshapes the way school leaders think about and approach fundraising.

Learn More About The Azure Summit Hawaiʻi

The Azure Summit Hawaiʻi will be held from June 15 – 17 in Honolulu. To learn more, visit The Azure Summit Hawaiʻi.