I understand the culture shock, the homesickness, and the excitement of being in a new place. It helps me connect with them and support them in a way that feels genuine and understanding.
—Vaipuarii Tapiero-Kight ’05, dorm head
Carter Hall emanates girl power. In the words of former dorm head Sarah Schorn ’98, “Girl power means harnessing the unique, latent strength that is found in all women. It also means women and girls coming together to lift each other up.” The girls in Carter Hall agree. They represent multiple Hawaiian islands, numerous U.S. states, and many nations, and they are a force to be reckoned with.
Carter residential faculty are always available to any of the girls for support and guidance. These families and the eight prefects keep Carter running smoothly and the girls engaged.
The Carter Hall girls can be found hanging out in friends’ rooms, underneath the tree outside the dorm, talking story, or having movie marathons in the shared common room. They are active all over campus and have created bonds that will last a lifetime.
Dorm Head
Vaipuarii Tapiero-Kight ’05 is the Dorm Head at Carter Hall, HPA’s all-female residence hall for students in grades 9–12. An alumna of the HPA Residential Life program, Vai returned to campus in 2022 and also serves as the Residential Program Travel Coordinator, supporting boarding students through travel logistics and off-campus experiences. An international student from Tahiti during her time at HPA, she brings a deep sense of cultural understanding and care to her work.
