College of Hawaiian Language honors scholarship founders, donors

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The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikolani College of Hawaiian Language is celebrating scholarship gifts received from three families and a fashion entrepreneur, while reminding its students that it will begin accepting applications for the 2016-17 awards March 1.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikolani College of Hawaiian Language is celebrating scholarship gifts received from three families and a fashion entrepreneur, while reminding its students that it will begin accepting applications for the 2016-17 awards March 1.

In January, Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikolani College of Hawaiian Language administrators thanked each of the generous donors for making it possible to increase the numbers and proficiency of Hawaiian speakers, cultural practitioners and teachers through scholarship.

“We are deeply grateful for the support of these donors and their commitment to helping us fulfill our mission,” said Dr. Keiki Kawai`ae`a, Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikolani director.

The Daniel and Lydia Makuakane Endowed Scholarship was established in fall 2015 by their family to honor the contributions of their parents to the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian language and cultural practices.

Lawrence Silva was not a Hawaiian speaker, but he embraced his Hawaiian cultural heritage in everyday activities. He was a consummate educator who devoted his entire career to teaching, mentoring and inspiring Hawaii’s youth, enabling them to grow and develop into positive, contributing members of the community.

The Lawrence Silva Memorial Endowed Excellence Scholarship was created after his death in 1998 to provide support in perpetuity to Hawaiian studies students and to ensure the development of future generations of Hawaiian speakers.

The UH-Hilo Haunani Bernardino Endowed Scholarship for Excellence is named after the late educator, musician and songwriter Theresa Marie Haunani Bernardino.

Bernardino lost her three-year battle with colon cancer in 2006, but during her active lifetime, shared her music and `ike (knowledge) with thousands of people, including many students, who have gone on to become teachers of Hawaiian language.

Kai Noa swimwear owner and designer Noelle Bali has created a unique line of swimwear to educate people about native cultures throughout the world. By purchasing her swimwear, consumers support research, sustainability, educational projects or charities within those cultures.

Her admiration for the college’s mission led Bali to create the Kai Noa Scholarship Fund, to support those dedicated to researching and revitalizing all areas and forms of Hawaiian knowledge.

The application deadline for all four scholarships is April 29. The recipients will be selected in May. For an application and/or more information, including scholarship criteria, visit www.olelo.hawaii.edu/haawinakala or call 932-7360.

To learn about making a charitable contribution to support scholarships at UH-Hilo, contact Mariko Miho of the UH-Hilo Development Office at 932-7692.