Niuhelewai Scholars provides Honolulu residents with an opportunity to try college for free. Niuhelewai is the name of the ‘ili upon which Honolulu Community College (HonCC) sits and was also the name of a stream that once flowed through the campus area. The name literally translated means ”coconut moving waters” and refers to the coconuts that would fall from trees that used to line Niuhelewai Stream and travel downstream. We believe this name provides an apt metaphor for the journey that participating students will embark upon while attending school. The program provides scholarships and academic support to participants to attain certificates and associate degrees at HonCC or just to try taking a few college courses!
The Niuhelewai Scholars Project is part of the UHCC system-wide 13th Year Initiative and is modeled after Kaua‘i Community College’s Waiʻaleʻale Project. Each campus’ program is funded by a generous donor and HonCC is grateful to receive support from the Mamoru and Aiko Takitani Foundation, Inc., a non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to helping Hawai‘i’s students achieve their educational and career goals.
Services Offered
The program currently offers the following to students accepted into the program:
- Financial support to cover 100% of tuition, books, and fees during the first year.
- Academic, career, and financial aid guidance.
- First Year Experience program to support learners during their initial year at the college.
- Upon successful completion of the first year, additional support for tuition, books, and fees up to an Associates Degree!
Eligibility
Eligibility for the program is limited to Honolulu residents who:
- Have not attended a college or university previously.
- Have demonstrated financial need that creates a barrier to entering college.
- Will not be able to attend college without the Niuhelewai Scholars scholarship.
In addition, please note that:
- Students accepted into the program must be a Hawai‘i resident as determined by the UH Common Application.
- Students who do not have a high school diploma or GED may not be eligible.
- Priority is given to incoming high school graduates.
We can help
Jo Ann Tuifanu
Niuhelewai Scholars Student Support Coordinator
Phone: 808-845-9447
Kaleialoha Lum-Ho
Niuhelewai Scholars Program Coordinator
Phone: (808) 845-9176
Paul Kalani Ka‘awa Flores, Jr.
Niuhelewai Scholars Program Coordinator
Phone: (808) 845-9489
How to Apply
All applicants to Niuhelewai Scholars must be referred by an ”affiliate.” The strength of the referral is a primary consideration during the application review process. Affiliates should demonstrate in their referral that the applicant meets the eligibility requirements using specific examples and information where possible. Affiliates are also encouraged to keep abreast of, and support, their student’s progress once they have enrolled at the college.
In addition to a referral, applicants must also complete an application. Please note that the program only accepts students for Fall enrollment. Both the application and referral form must be completed in order to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Notes for Affiliates
HOW TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING YOUR STUDENT IN COLLEGE
Studies show that students are more likely to do better in school if they feel that somebody cares about their educational success. For this reason, affiliates are encouraged to support their student throughout their academic career at HonCC. Some small but meaningful things that affiliates can do to support their students include:
- Congratulate them on being accepted as a Niuhelewai Scholars scholar and on their decision to attend college!
- Ask them if they need help with the enrollment process to HonCC. (Offer your help or refer them to us for more detailed assistance.)
- Show an interest in their college pursuits: ask them how their classes are going, whether they’re having any challenges, etc.
- Make a point to call or talk to them during the first two weeks of the semester to see how they’re doing and whether they need any help.
- Call or talk to them at least once during the semester to check on them.
- If you become aware of a challenge that the student is having during the semester (transportation, childcare, falling behind in classes, non-attendance), please let us know as soon as possible so we can try to help. Call us at (808) 845-9176 or email us.
APPLICATION AND ENROLLMENT TIMELINE
The Niuhelewai Scholars Program is still accepting applications! All applications received by April 30 will be reviewed for eligibility and completeness from April 30–May 10. Applicants and affiliates will be notified of the status of their applications by May 15.
If accepted, scholars must attend mandatory program orientations in early June and complete intake paperwork. Following the program orientation, staff will assist students with the enrollment process, including completing the general UH application, attending a New Student Registration session, and applying for financial aid.
