The Hawaii Lions Club has granted membership to senior Kasandra Kitagawa this week, a rare opportunity for high school students.

Academy graduates who are current members of the Hawaii Lions include Shaynalynn Ah Sam, ’11; Kristal Vidal, ’11; and Sherry Wong ’12. All students were dedicated Leos during high school and who have continued to serve their various communities through the Lions club.

“The Lions do not invite everyone but those who are truly dedicated and enthusiastic about serving their community,” said Academy Leo club adviser, Whitney Miyahira.

Kitagawa has been a student at Sacred Hearts Academy for 10 years and a member of the Leo club since the eighth grade. She actively participates in numerous service activities with the school group as club ex-officio.

“I enjoy Leo club because of the friendships I have made and the variety of service projects our club has done,” said Kitagawa.

The Hawaii Lions Club is a community service group with over 1,800 members in the state. Each member is evaluated by the board and requires a majority approval for entry.

Kitagawa received unanimous approval from all officials.

After Kitagawa’s acceptance, she received a personal invitation from the Kamehameha Lions Club adviser, Jim Bryan.

“To become a Kamehameha Lion, Kassy was awarded a special ‘endowment,’ which pays all of her dues for as long as she remains in school up to the age of 30.  That’s a very special honor which recognizes that Kassy has served her LEO club and her community with enormous dedication and hard work,” said Bryan.

Kitagawa’s initiation ceremony will be some time in the spring.

“I felt honored that I could be part of this organization that does so much to help the community. I can’t wait to wear the Lion’s club blue polo shirt and earn a gold vest,” said Kitagawa.