Thanks to an anonymous donor, West Hawaii students pursuing marine sciences at the new Hawaii Community College – Palamanui campus now have more scholarship support. A $50,000 gift established the West Hawaii Marine Science Endowed Scholarship.
This scholarship will support undergraduate students enrolled in the marine science degree program at the Hawaii CC — Palamanui campus. Until the marine science program is officially approved by the University of Hawaii Board of Regents, students enrolled in the natural science program are eligible, college administrators said in a press release.
Preference will be given to West Hawaii residents who are or have been active in Native Hawaiian cultural activities and groups including language, hula, ancient trail restoration work, fishing practices and more, who are also active in their community and performing well academically.
“We are very grateful for this generous endowed scholarship that will support West Hawaii students engaged in the marine sciences,” said Hawaii Community College Chancellor Noreen Yamane. “It is critically important for us to move forward in marine sciences as we educate and prepare students to be employed in an area that has such great impact on all of us who live on the Big Island.”
Kenneth “Marty” Fletcher, director of the University of Hawaii Center at West Hawaii said Palamanui will help lift West Hawaii from the lowest college going rate in the state.
“Our students are in critical need of scholarships to stay in college and continue their educational journey,” Fletcher said. “Marine science is a driver of West Hawaii’s economy and this scholarship will help our students be part of this momentum. Endowing this scholarship to support local young people on marine science career paths is visionary.”
If you are interested in learning how you can support the students and programs at Hawaii CC contact Executive Director of Development, Regional and Community Colleges K.C. Collins at kc.collins@uhfoundation.org or 956-3458. You can also make a gift online at uhfoundation.org/givetohawaiicc