LIHUE — Fujita & Miura Public Relations (FMPR) announced that two Kauai students, Kierstyn Bukoski and Willsendane Soriano, have been named the 2024 FMPR Scholars.
Each student earned a $1,000 college scholarship for the honor.
Bukoski, a Kauai High School graduate, is currently in her last semester at the University of Hawaii at Manoa studying accounting with a minor in psychology.
“I am determined to effect positive change by establishing my own firm, not only to provide employment opportunities for aspiring accountants, but also to contribute to the growth and development of the local industry,” Bukoski said.
“Central to my vision is the ethos of community engagement, as my firm will actively participate in volunteer initiatives and other community-oriented endeavors. As I embark on this transformative journey, I am resolute in my dedication to making a meaningful and enduring impact on both the accounting profession and the communities I serve.”
Soriano was a valedictorian of the Kauai High School Class of 2024. She is at Macalester College as a biology major.
“Challenges have been a part of my journey from witnessing the health care disparities on Kauai to navigating the flaws of our education system. However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to make a positive impact in my community,” Soriano said.
“As I look to the future, I am determined to continue my education and become a doctor who can provide comfort and care to patients from diverse backgrounds.”
FMPR said both scholars are rooted in Kauai and intend to use their newly-gained knowledge and skills to benefit their home and communities.
“We are incredibly proud of these two remarkable individuals whose achievements are a testament to their hard work and bright futures,” said FMPR Partner Jenny Fujita.
FMPR Partner Joy Miura Koerte echoed those sentiments.
“Both students have demonstrated exceptional leadership and aloha spirit for their communities, and highlight the potential of young leaders in shaping the future,” Koerte said.
FMPR scholars are selected based on several key criteria, including
• They are Kauai or Pennsylvania residents.
• They are students who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees.
• They are interested in owning or working for a small business and/or home-based business.
• They are engaged in entrepreneurial activities.
• They intend to come home to and pursue their livelihoods in their local communities following undergraduate or graduate school.
• They are engaged in community service and wish to advance their local community following college.
• They have proven intellectual and academic achievements.
• They show integrity of character and an interest in helping others.
• They have the ability to lead and the motivation to use their talents to the fullest.
Fujita & Miura Public Relations is a full service communications consulting firm on Kauai, and in the Greater Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania.
Headed by Fujita and Koerte, FMPR has been providing strategic advice and services to businesses and nonprofit organizations to help them achieve their goals since 2000.
For more information: www.fmpr.net.
