Queen's Health Systems donates Native Hawaiian Health Training Scholarship to Kapiolani Community College

Kapiʻolani Community College

Contact:

Margot Schrire, (808) 956-6774
Director of Communications

Posted: Nov 13, 2007

"It has always been my dream to get into the radiologic technology program. After I graduate, I will return to Molokai where they really need me. I have a son in Molokai, so it's been emotionally and financially rough going back and forth from Oahu to Molokai. This scholarship will really help me financially. Mahalo." - Pualani Griep, Queen's Health Systems Native Hawaiian Health Training Scholarship recipient

HONOLULU ‐ The Queen's Health Systems has invested in the healthcare industry's future through donating $25,000 for scholarships to Kapiolani Community College students enrolled in the health program.

"The Queens Native Hawaiian Health Program gave this gift because ultimately, we would like to overcome the health disparities of Native Hawaiians at Queen's Medical Center. By developing the social capital of those who are committed to Native Hawaiians (and the people of Hawai'i), we are contributing to the health of the entire community," said Diane Paloma, director of the Queen's Health Systems Native Hawaiian Health Program.

"Queens has a Native Hawaiian Health Initiative which includes a healthcare training aspect comprising of scholarships and assistance. When we first looked at the range of scholarships out there, we saw lots of support for doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. We realized that we could have a lot of impact if we funded the allied health fields and the allied health program at KCC. Queen's has a range of critical needs positions that require trained, committed staff. These KCC courses are the precursors for these positions. This scholarship builds an ideal partnership. KCC has the programs and students, and Queen's has the need for qualified employees," said Paloma.

At a recent check presentation event, Paloma and Dr. Gerard K. Akaka, Medical Director of the Native Hawaiian Health Program, presented KCC scholarship recipients with their award letters, and listened to moving stories from the students about how the scholarships will assist them in their studies.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAIʻI FOUNDATION
The University of Hawaiʻi Foundation is an independent, university-related, nonprofit organization whose purpose is to raise private funds according to priorities determined by the academic leadership of the University of Hawaiʻi and approved by the Board of Regents. Founded in 1955, the Foundation provides a full range of fund raising and alumni relations services for all 10 UH campuses.

For more information, visit: http://www.uhf.hawaii.edu