Mid-Pacific Embraces Cryptocurrency Donations With Inaugural $200,000 Gift

Innovative approach aligns with school's progressive vision and global outreach

HONOLULU – Mid-Pacific Institute is pleased to announce the implementation of a new policy to accept cryptocurrency donations, reflecting the school’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity in philanthropic endeavors. This initiative offers donors an additional, convenient method to support Mid-Pacific’s mission, aligning with the school’s forward-thinking approach and readiness to adapt to the evolving financial landscape.

“By embracing cryptocurrency donations, Mid-Pacific demonstrates openness to innovative funding solutions, potentially leading to new revenue streams,” shared Lesley Kaneshiro, Chief Operations Officer. “Offering multiple avenues for donations—including cryptocurrency, cash, and traditional methods—ensures inclusivity and convenience for all potential supporters. This flexibility caters to a diverse donor base, accommodating varying preferences, and financial practices.”

In alignment with its policy, approved by the Board of Trustees in November, Mid-Pacific will convert all cryptocurrency donations to cash upon receipt, ensuring the stability of donated funds. This approach mitigates the volatility associated with cryptocurrencies, safeguarding the value of contributions. Gregory Leong, Chair of the Mid-Pacific Board of Trustees, remarked, “Mid-Pacific has always been a progressive institution, and this step further establishes us as an inclusive, international school ready to embrace the changing financial landscape. Accepting cryptocurrency donations demonstrates our readiness to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of a modern world.”

The first cryptocurrency donation of $200,000 has been designated to support the Global Exchange Academy, a branch of the Center for Advancing Education at Mid-Pacific. This generous contribution underscores the global vision of Mid-Pacific’s educational programs and the potential of cryptocurrency to facilitate significant philanthropic impact.

“I’m thrilled that Mid-Pacific is embracing cryptocurrency, offering donors a modern and efficient way to give while enjoying unique tax benefits, such as avoiding capital gains on appreciated assets,” said Shannon Cleary, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “This flexibility, especially during year-end giving, allows us to engage a broader community of supporters and ensure every contribution strengthens our mission to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world.”

The policy and instructions for making cryptocurrency donations are available on the Giving page of Mid-Pacific’s website. With this new approach, the school continues to provide a wide array of giving options, ensuring that all donors can contribute in a way that is most convenient for them.

About Mid-Pacific Institute
Mid-Pacific Institute is a preschool through grade 12 independent school in Honolulu with 1,400 students, nestled into 43 acres in Mānoa Valley. Founded in 1908, Mid-Pacific cultivates compassionate world-ready learners who make a positive impact through purpose-driven passions and creativity. Mid-Pacific is home to the Center for Advancing Education, committed to transforming education in Hawai‘i through the Kupu Hou and Global Exchange Academies. First-in-Hawai‘i programs include School of the Arts, the Immersive Technology Program and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The Mid-Pacific experience empowers students to thrive with confidence, adaptability, and integrity as contributing members of their local and global communities. For more, visit midpac.edu.

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