UH Maui College Awarded $3.7 Million in Federal Grants

Melissa Bonnin (left) and Dr. Keola Donaghy (right). Photos credit: UHMC.

The University of Hawai’i Maui College has been awarded two significant federal grants totaling $3.7 million over the next five years.

UHMC Chancellor Dr. Lui Hokoana made the announced today saying the grant awarded to Dr. Keola Donaghy (Music Studies and Institute of Hawaiian Music) is a US Department of Education Title III grant for Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions in the amount of $2.5 million for five years ($500,000 a year).

It will be used to renovate the college’s recording room and create a professional quality recording studio, to deliver the Institute of Hawaiian Music’s Academic Subject Certificate in Hawaiian Music to Moloka‘i, to create a new A.S.C. in Hawaiian Performing Arts, and to create new curriculum for Music Studies that will bring Hawaiian content and pedagogy to all music classes.

“I think it is an amazing opportunity for UHMC to strengthen and expand its programs for students interested in Hawaiian music and performing arts such as hula, whether as a career, for personal growth, or to contribute to our community of practitioners of these vital arts. It also advances the UH system’s goal to be a model indigenous serving institution,” said Dr. Donaghy.

The second grant was successfully secured by Melissa Bonnin, Grant Development Management Coordinator.  The $1.2 million, five-year Talent Search grant is part of the US Department of Education’s TRIO program.

The TRIO Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The college prep program will serve underrepresented middle and high students of Maui County.

Program services include career exploration, academic advising, college tours, support in applying for college, and help in all steps of the college admissions process, including securing financial support for college. Ultimately, the program encourages students to graduate from high school, enroll in college, and complete a postsecondary education program.

“This grant will be a great community resource to increase college access by starting the college prep process for underrepresented students in middle school. I am excited that UH Maui College was awarded the program and thankful for the team of people who made this happen,” said Bonnin.