The University of Hawai'i Board of Regents has approved the conferral of an honorary degree upon Princess Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawananakoa, the great-grand niece of King David Kalakaua and Queen Kapi'olani.

The request was introduced by Chancellor Gene Awakuni of UH-West O'ahu, the sponsoring campus.

The Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters is awarded by the Board of Regents to individuals distinguished by their national or international reputations or accomplishments in scholarship, public service, profession, or industry.

"Princess Kawananakoa's philanthropic work has been essential to the preservation of Hawaiian culture as a heritage for future generations," said UH President David McClain.

"Through her dedication and generosity, she has helped to sustain authentic Hawaiian history, music, hula, literature and language."

Kawananakoa served as the president of the Friends of 'Iolani Palace for nearly 30 years and was the moving force behind the palace's restoration project.

'Iolani Palace is now recognized as a world-class edifice rich in history and tradition symbolizing the Hawaiian monarchy.

She has generously supported many projects throughout the state, from Hawaiian language immersion schools to the historic renovation of The Hawaiian Hall at Bishop Museum.

Her strong ties with royals throughout the South Pacific is also a testament to her goodwill toward cultures around the world, according to a UH news release.

She established the Abigail K. Kawananakoa Foundation to support the preservation of Hawaiian culture.

She also formed Na Lei Ali'i Kawananakoa, a Native Hawaiian organization serving and representing the interests of Native Hawaiians.

Many Hawaiian artifacts have been "rescued" or preserved through this organization.