Applications open for the 2026–2027 Chrysanthemum Leadership Program

The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center is now accepting applications for the Chrysanthemum Leadership Program, a competitive, values‑based youth leadership initiative designed to empower Maui County high school students through cultural education, community involvement, and career exploration.

Open to Maui County sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher, the Chrysanthemum Leadership Program invites students who want to strengthen their leadership abilities, broaden their career pathways, and deepen their connection to Japanese culture. The program honors the legacy of Maui’s Nisei veterans by encouraging students to embody values of courage, service, and responsibility in their daily lives.

The inaugural Chrysanthemum cohort was led by Ambassador Abigail Tamayose (King Kekaulike) and Representatives Rylee Ota (Maui High School) and Keala Rodriguez (Seabury Hall).

“Our inaugural Chrysanthemum cohort set an extraordinary standard,” said Deidre Tegarden, NVMC Executive Director. “Abigail, Rylee, and Keala approached every challenge with maturity, compassion, and a genuine desire to serve their community. Their leadership showed us exactly what this program can achieve — young people who rise to meet responsibility with heart, discipline, and purpose.”

Participants engage in community service, cultural workshops, fundraising projects, and leadership development sessions. As part of the program, students raise funds that directly support both NVMC’s mission and their own college and career goals, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on responsibility, initiative, and long‑term planning.

The curriculum also introduces students to internationalism and cross‑cultural learning, reflecting Maui’s long‑standing relationship with Fukuyama City, Japan.

A hallmark of the program is its capstone experiences:

• The Chrysanthemum Ambassador, selected as the program’s top representative, travels with NVMC to Hiroshima and Fukuyama, Japan, where they lay peace cranes at Sadako’s Memorial, pay respects at the Cenotaph, and represent Maui in meetings with Fukuyama Mayor Edahiro and members of the City Council.
• The Chrysanthemum Representatives participate in a full leadership day on O‘ahu, meeting government officials, nonprofit leaders, and business partners. This civic immersion experience strengthens their public‑speaking skills, cultural fluency, and understanding of Hawai‘i’s role in the Asia‑Pacific region.

“The Chrysanthemum Leadership Program helps young people discover their strengths while connecting them to Maui’s history and community,” said Tegarden. “Students gain practical skills, cultural awareness, and a sense of purpose that supports their future academic and professional goals.”

Applications are due Nov. 7, 2026. Students may apply by scanning the QR code on the program flyer or visiting NVMC’s website:  Chrysanthemum Leadership Program – Nisei Veterans Memorial Center.

For more information, contact NVMC at 808-244‑6862