Construction Industry of Maui donates $75,000 in scholarship funds to high school seniors

The Construction Industry of Maui awarded three students each a $25,000 scholarship to encourage education towards a career in the construction industry. The Bob Poulson Scholarship encourages Maui students to pursue a degree in the construction and design industry, away from Maui, then bring their acquired knowledge, skills and local hearts back to Maui to serve their communities. This year’s scholarship recipients are seniors, Macie Madaus, Kai Shively and Karissa Chapman.

“This year’s scholarship recipients exemplify the highest standards of perseverance, intellect, and character,” said Anthony Nelson, CIM Scholarship Committee Chair and President of Maui-based company, Rethink Restoration. “It is a great honor to support their academic endeavors. I am inspired by their potential and look forward to the positive and lasting contributions they will bring to our island community.”

Bob Poulson was a dedicated steward of the Maui community and a visionary leader in the construction industry. As one of the founding members of The Construction Industry of Maui, he co-established Arita Poulson General Contracting in 1986. Over the years, he played a vital role in the construction and renovation of more than a thousand projects across Maui and beyond including schools, housing developments, churches, healthcare facilities and other essential community structures.

This scholarship honors the enduring legacy of Bob Poulson—his unwavering commitment to service, his inspiring leadership, and his passion for mentoring the next generation. Through this tribute, his spirit of giving back and his enthusiasm for introducing young people to opportunities in the construction field will continue to make a lasting impact. To date, more than $350,000 in scholarship funds have been awarded to 15 of deserving Maui high school students. 

The three esteemed students received their scholarships at a celebration banquet May 21 at the Cafe ‘O Lei, Maui Tropical Plantation. Eligibility for the scholarships included graduating from a high school in the County of Maui  and entering a two- or four-year degree program in construction, engineering, landscaping and/or other design fields. 

Macie Madaus a graduating senior from King Kekaulike High School, has been awarded a 2025 scholarship in recognition of her academic excellence and commitment to environmental advocacy. She graduates with a 4.1 GPA and plans to attend Colorado Mesa University pursuing a degree in Construction Management. Macie’s senior project focused on promoting sustainability and increasing student engagement, showcasing her initiative and values-driven leadership. 

Macie also spent the summer working at the Maui Cookie Lady Bakery, where her diligence and reliability quickly earned her responsibilities involving proprietary recipes. Macie is known for her strong work ethic, her ability to lead by example and her determination to contribute meaningfully to both her school and her community. She reflects a student who not only understands the importance of sustainability, but who is prepared to dedicate her education and career to building a more responsible future.

Kai Shively, a graduating senior from Maui Preparatory Academy, has been awarded a 2025 scholarship in recognition of his academic achievement, leadership and community involvement. This fall, Kai will attend Williamette University, where he plans to pursue studies in business and leadership. He completed high school with a 3.7 GPA and a record of engagement that reflects his well-rounded character.

Throughout his time at Maui Preparatory Academy, Kai was active in the National Honor Society, Finance Club and several civic-minded organizations. He completed college-level courses in psychology, sociology and business, and was recognized with awards such as the Pueo Paddle Award and Head of School Honors. In addition to academic excellence, Kai also contributed as an athlete, helping lead his basketball team to a state championship and participating on the golf team. His faculty describe him as a student who has consistently grown into a confident and thoughtful leader.

Karissa Chapman, a graduating senior from Kamehameha Schools Maui, is the recipient of a 2025 scholarship celebrating her exceptional academic record, service and leadership. With a 4.11 GPA, Karissa has demonstrated not only intellectual excellence but also a deep commitment to her community. She will be attending the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in the fall, majoring in engineering, with aspirations to develop solutions to real-world challenges. 

At Kamehameha, Karissa was named on the Headmaster’s List seven times and served as president of the school’s Book Club. She competed in Track and Field during her freshman and sophomore years, qualifying for state competitions both times. Outside of school, Karissa volunteered with Camp Imua, the Kula Pumpkin Patch and youth athletics programs, while also holding part-time positions at Macy’s, Coldstone Creamery, and Ululani’s Shave Ice. Her mentors describe her as a quiet force—one who leads with consistency, humility and an eagerness to learn.