Lahainaluna Stadium Named in Honor of Major Donor

A state-of-the-art sports and events stadium being built at Lahainaluna High in West Maui will be
named in honor of its primary benefactor, Sue D. Cooley. Courtesy photo.

By Maui Now Staff

The events stadium being built at Lahainaluna High School in West Maui will be named in honor of Sue D. Cooley, its primary benefactor and part-time Maui resident, the state Department of Education announced today.

According to the announcement, Cooley has contributed $7.5 million to the project since the Lahainaluna High School Foundation began its campaign in 2007 to raise funds for the stadium.

The contribution translates to an estimated 80% of the $9 million total cost of the project, state officials said.

The state Board of Education approved of the naming recommendation today after receiving positive testimony from complex area superintendent Lindsay Ball and supporting organizations.

“It’s my hope that these gifts will inspire others to give and support public education in Hawaiʻi,” said Cooley when DOE officials asked her about the contribution.

According to the Department of Education, construction on the stadium is expected to conclude next month.

Some of its features include: seating for 3,000 people; a new synthetic 4-lane track; an artificial turf athletic field; lights; and scoreboard.

“The people of West Maui and especially at Lahainaluna are deeply appreciative for Ms. Cooley’s generous contributions,” said Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi in a department press release. “This stadium will be a significant gathering place for the community to celebrate student activities. Extra-curricular activities help young people develop teamwork and sportsmanship skills, which are vital for success in college, career and community.”

BOE Chair Don Horner also commented saying, “We much appreciate Ms. Cooley’s confidence, caring and commitment to public education. Her contribution will positively impact generations of school children.”