Mission
"Princeton Pono Pathways seeks to expand the limited opportunities for Indigenous Studies education at Princeton by immersing students in community-guided work aligned with Native Hawaiian values and knowledge. We believe that Indigenous knowledge serves not only Indigenous Peoples but the world at large, offering essential perspectives on justice, sustainability, and resilience. While this is a non-Native-led initiative, the program is grounded in a deep commitment to cultural respect and humility. We aim to follow the leadership of Native Hawaiian partners and support the priorities they identify. Through internships, volunteer service, and expert-led learning, the program enriches students' academic and personal growth while ensuring that their summers are spent in meaningful, respectful, and community-aligned ways."
Three Pillars of Our Work
Cultural Immersion
Deepening understanding of Hawaiian culture, values, and traditions
- Hawaiian language and cultural workshops
- Traditional practices and ceremonies
- Site visits to cultural and historical locations
- Engagement with kupuna (elders) and cultural practitioners
- Understanding of Hawaiian worldview and values
Community Engagement
Building meaningful relationships and supporting community-led initiatives
- Partnerships with local organizations
- Hands-on community service projects
- Participatory action research
- Supporting community self-determination
- Building lasting relationships with community members
Leadership Development
Developing skills to be effective advocates for Indigenous justice
- Cultural leadership principles
- Community organizing and advocacy
- Cross-cultural communication skills
- Project management and coordination
- Policy and systems change work
Our Goals
For Students
- Develop deep cultural competency and humility
- Build meaningful relationships with Native Hawaiian communities
- Gain practical leadership and advocacy skills
- Understand Indigenous justice issues and solutions
- Create lasting connections and networks
For Communities
- Support community-led initiatives and priorities
- Build capacity for local organizations
- Create opportunities for cultural exchange and learning
- Develop sustainable partnerships with academic institutions
- Advance Indigenous self-determination
For Society
- Promote understanding of Indigenous rights and justice
- Build bridges between academic and community knowledge
- Support environmental stewardship and sustainability
- Advance cross-cultural collaboration and respect
- Create models for ethical community engagement
Join Our Mission
Be part of creating meaningful change through cultural immersion, community engagement, and leadership development.