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

This year’s scholarship recipients are five freshmen, four undergraduate students, and one graduate student. The subjects range from biology, diagnostic ultrasound, and business administration to anthropology, history, and law. The 2024 scholarship recipients are:

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

Gary Fukuroku, President and CEO of Maui County FCU, expressed pride in the award winners 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 make a positive contribution to our community. 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 ambitions, Bennett Takahama said, “I hope to return to Hawaii to strengthen and grow our community. I want to use my acquired knowledge in biology to research native plants and find ways to sustain their growth and use throughout Hawaii.”

Hanale Kauhaahaa said: “I want to use my degree in computer science to start a career where I can contribute to new developments in the field. I am particularly interested in AI and the new opportunities it brings.”

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

Maui County Federal Credit Union is a nonprofit financial cooperative serving the residents of Maui County. Founded in 1937, the credit union’s mission is to provide financial services that help its members achieve their goals while giving back to the community through various initiatives, including scholarships, financial education programs and community service projects. Maui County FCU takes care of the financial needs of its members by offering services that promote financial well-being. Locations in Kahului, Lahaina and Wailuku. For more information, visit mauicountyfcu.org.