HEA has proudly awarded $1,000 awards to 13 teacher candidates enrolled in University of Hawaii’s educator preparation programs that lead to state licensure. The HEA Scholarship Committee had the difficult task of selecting the recipients from among more than 30 applicants.
HEA supports students who are pursuing teaching careers by participating in state-approved preparation programs in the UH
system. Funding for these awards comes from a generous grant from the Hawaii State Legislature’s Grant in Aid (GIA) program.
In July 2024, HEA received its first GIA award of $50,000. To date, $36,000 has been awarded to preand in-service educators in the state. The GIA program allocates funding to nonprofit organizations, community groups, and educational institutions across the state.
The award recipients by UH Campus are:
- Leeward Community College: Matthew Alsbergas, Tiani Castaneda-Naboa, Joseph Jones, Tuturenga Lyles, Mariah Pate, Ami Phillips, and Keila Yael Santaella
- UH Manoa: Makella Diaz
- UH Hilo: Marc Randolph
- Kahuawaiola at UH Hilo: Piʻikea Lono and Wolfgang Rehmert
- UH West Oahu: Shane-Nah Brown and Ashley Reis
Some of the recipients shared moving reflections on how this HEA award supports their dream of becoming a licensed teacher to serve their local community:
“Becoming a Kaiapuni teacher…strengthens living our Hawaiian culture.”
— Wolfgang Rehmert
“I am pursing this career as someone who has seen first hand how important it is to have a teacher who is prepared.”
— Piʻikea A. Lono
“My pursuit of a teaching career in Hawaii is deeply rooted in both a personal commitment to education and a profound respect for the unique cultural and community values of the islands. I believe teaching is not just a profession, but a calling to serve, inspire, and empower the next generation.”
— Keila Yael Santaella
“I firmly believe in the importance of students knowing that their teacher is genuinely invested in their best interests.”
— Marc Randolph
“Receiving this grant would greatly support my journey by easing the financial burden of completing my teacher licensure and program requirements. It would allow me to fully focus on my studies and continue serving my students with dedication and heart.”
— Makella Diaz
“I am committed to becoming the best teacher I can be. I’m passionate about continuing to learn and grow with my students and am eager to build a long-term teaching career in Hawaii, where I can contribute meaningfully to the community.”
— Mariah Pate
