Funding Secured for Native Hawaiian Leadership Program

Liko A’e 2012 Scholars and ‘Ohana at Paeloko March 2nd. Courtesy photo UHMC.

By Maui Now Staff

The Liko Aʻe Native Hawaiian Leadership Program at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College received its second year funding after a successful first year annual report, program officials announced.

The $1.5 million award from the US Department of Education Title VII Elementary and Secondary Education Act, funds the program through August 2014, according to the University of Hawaii Maui College.

“This second-year funding for our Leadership Program allows us to provide scholarships and wrap-around support services to native Hawaiians students with a greater focus on serving those from rural and under-represented areas and non-traditional students,” said Program Director Malia Davidson in a media release issued today.

Since receiving its first federal grant award 10 years ago, the Liko Aʻe program has reportedly assisted more than 2,000 students with scholarships, counseling, mentoring, and support services.

“It is Liko Aʻe’s hope that, through participation in these leadership service opportunities, each scholar will share their treasures, wisdom, knowledge, and gifts in order to bring hope and encouragement to their community, while also learning valuable lessons themselves from their kūpuna and other community members,” program officials said.