Maui County Federal Credit Union awards $10,000 in college scholarships

Maui County Federal Credit Union has announced recipients of its 2024 scholarships. Scholarships of $1,000 were awarded to 10 outstanding students. The awards are part of the credit union’s ongoing commitment to supporting higher education and empowering the next generation of leaders.

This year’s scholarship recipients consist of five incoming college freshmen, four returning undergraduates and one graduate school student. Fields of study range from biology, diagnostic ultrasound and business, to anthropology, history and law. The 2024 scholarship recipients are:

• Taylor Aloy, 2023 Kamehameha Schools graduate, attending Seattle University.
• Kalela Gaspar, 2024 Maui High School graduate, attending Grand Canyon University.
• William George, 2023 Maui High School graduate, attending University of Nevada.
• Devyn Gruber, 2024 Lahainaluna High School graduate, attending University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
• Hanale Kauhaahaa, 2024 Lahainaluna High School graduate, attending University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
• Ava Takahama, 2024 Kamehameha Schools graduate, attending Creighton University.
• Bennett Takahama, Creighton University, 2024 Kamehameha Schools graduate, attending Creighton University.
• Andrew Teruya, 2022 Maui High School graduate, attending University of Puget Sound.
• Kahanu Vista, 2022 Kamehameha Schools graduate, attending Grand Canyon University.
• Layce Yamauchi, 2017 Baldwin High School graduate, attending University of Hawai‘i William S. Richardson School of Law.

Gary Fukuroku, Maui County FCU president and chief executive officer, expressed pride in the recipients and emphasized the importance of investing in the education of local students.

“At Maui County FCU, we believe that education is a powerful tool for personal and community growth,” he said. “By supporting these deserving students, we are investing in the future of Maui County. These scholarships represent our commitment to helping young people achieve their dreams and contribute positively to our society. We are incredibly proud of each recipient and look forward to seeing the great things they will accomplish.”

When asked about his educational hopes and aspirations, Bennett Takahama said: “I hope to be able to return to Hawai‘i to empower and grow our community. I want to use my gained knowledge in biology to research native plants and find ways to perpetuate their growth and usage across Hawai‘i.”

Hanale Kauhaahaa said: “I want to use my computer science degree to enter a career that allows me to contribute to new developments in the field. I am specifically interested in AI and the new opportunities it will bring.”

Over the past 23 years, Maui County FCU has awarded scholarships totaling $284,000 to Maui County students pursuing higher education.

Maui County Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative serving the residents of Maui County. Established in 1937, the credit union is committed to providing financial services that help its members achieve their goals while also giving back to the community through various initiatives, including scholarships, financial education programs, and community service projects. Maui County FCU cares for members financial needs by providing services that encourage financial well-being. Locations in Kahului, Lahaina and Wailuku. To learn more, visit mauicountyfcu.org.