Will Henderson

Will J. Henderson's 26-year tenure at Queen's Medical Center, as president and consultant from 1960-1986, was rich with meaningful accomplishments. A mentor to more than 50 individuals throughout his lifetime, Will set the standard in hospital leadership with compassion, understanding and dedication. As a major player in community health care, he became involved in the health care industry and education in Hawai'i, Japan, People's Republic of China and the Philippines.

Because Will cherished his time and experience with the staff at Queen's, he wanted to create a transformational gift to benefit their children's futures. As a result, Will established two charitable gift annuities that created an endowed scholarship fund to support children of Queen's employees. He also included a substantial charitable bequest in his estate plan for the same purpose. These generous gifts allow employees at Queen's to send their children to the University of Hawai'i where they will receive quality education for generations to come.

"Will Henderson's 26-year tenure at Queen's Medical Center is rich with meaningful accomplishments. A mentor throughout his lifetime, Will set the standard in hospital leadership with compassion, understanding and dedication. The UH Foundation had the privilege of partnering with Will over the years, as he grew his legacy through his philanthropy." - UH President and CEO, Donna Vuchinich 

During his career, Henderson was involved in the health care industry and education in Hawai'i, Japan, the People's Republic of China, and the Philippines. He was recognized for his contributions in myriad ways including being the recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays and Rosette from the Emperor of Japan.

In addition to playing a key leadership role in healthcare, Henderson was an active community leader, serving as a charter member of the board of directors and first vice president of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i; president of the Japan America Society of Hawai'i; member of the board of trustees at Willamette University; regent and life fellow of the American College of Health-Care Executives; and member of the board of trustees of the American Hospital Association. He also served as the president of Rotary Foundation of Honolulu, and president of Hawai'i Health Care Association. 

Henderson was the first academically trained hospital executive in Hawai'i, having earned a Master's degree in hospital administration from the University of California, Berkeley.

Henderson also created a scholarship for first-year medical school students at John A. Burns School of Medicine.

Will J. Henderson, kama'aina in spirit and heart, died on October 20, 2016. He was 95 years old. Through his generous philanthropy, his impact on quality healthcare will live on through the work of future physicians. Mahalo Will!