Japanese Cultural Society Awards Maui Scholarships

Nicole Fukumoto (right), presents a scholarship award to Kiara Galicinao. Courtesy photo.

By Wendy Osher

Two Maui students are the recipients of $1,000 college scholarships from the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui.

The awards were issued to Lahainaluna High School graduate and class valedictorian Kiara Galiciano, and King Kekaulike High School graduate Aja Muromoto.

The annual scholarships are issued to students interested in perpetuating the Japanese culture, and were based on a student’s involvement in their culture, as well as academics and community participation.

Nicole Fukumoto (right) presents a scholarship award to Aja Muromoto. Courtesy photo.

Galiciano is the daughter of Kelcie Matsui and Kevin Galicinao.  While attending Lahainaluna, Kiara was a member of the Japanese Club, Hawaiiana Club, Aloha Club, National Honor Society, Skills USA and Student Government.  She was also involved with cheerleading and volunteered as a Japanese tutor.

Kiara plans to study architecture and Japanese and will be attending the University of Oregon to pursue her college education.

“I will be sure to keep the promotion of the Japanese culture a top priority of mine as I continue on to college, and as well as when I return to Maui to begin my career,” said Galicinao upon accepting the scholarship.

Muromoto, meantime, is the daughter of Thomas and Liane Muromoto.  While attending King Kekaulike High School, Aja was a member of the Japanese Club, Key Club, National Honor Society, Avid Club, Best Buddies and is a current member of the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui.  She also played volleyball, and volunteered as a tutor.

Aja will be attending Western Washington University where she will study International Business and Japanese.

“In memory of our ancestors who sacrificed much for the life we enjoy and opportunities we have, it is important for my generation to honor them by living with integrity, gratitude, and compassion,” said Muromoto upon receiving the scholarship.

Those interested in making a donation towards the annual scholarship program, may do so by contacting the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui at P.O. Box 5090, Kahului, HI 96733.