"We develop grit thanks to her. She sets an example. She's one of those leaders that is here first thing in the morning and is the last to leave,” said Noelani Oliver, with the Development Office of Sacred Hearts Academy.



The school's first lay leader, White led Sacred Hearts from religious to lay instruction, helped boost staff, and created centers for performing and visual arts, science and computer labs.

An advocate of financial independence for women, White also paved the way for the school to offer symposiums in science, technology, engineering, and math to girls from all Hawai'i private and public schools.



"We want to make sure that our girls are financially secure. It's the STEM fields that are going to bring in more lucrative salaries,” explained White.



As for what's next, White said her and her husband Emmett, who also just retired, are looking forward to traveling and spending time with family.



"We have seven little grandchildren,” explained White.



"Those who know her are kind of anxious to see what retirement will bring for her because she operates at 120 miles an hour,” said White’s son, George White.