Kapaia Foundation announces scholarship

KAPAIA — The Kapaia Foundation on Thursday announced the availability of a $1,000 academic scholarship to a graduating high school senior who demonstrates qualities passed on from Hawaii’s sugar plantation era laborers. 

These qualities include hard work, perseverance and a positive attitude.

Scholarship application forms are available from each of the high school’s senior class counselor, or by calling 808-639-3606. There is an application deadline of April 15.

During 2024, the Kapaia Foundation Scholarship was presented to Chenelle Andres who graduated from Kauai High School and is currently pursuing a Nursing course of study at the University of Portland in Portland, Oregon.

The Kapaia Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve and promote the rich history of Kapaia Valley. When sugar and sugar cane was the main agricultural product of Kauai, 600 people lived in Kapaia. Many of the villagers worked for the Lihue Sugar Plantation Company, and the immigrant laborers’ work ethic set the foundation for success enjoyed by their children, grandchildren and generations that followed.