Scholarship Program

Jeanine Longboy - Waimea High School

Jeanine is a Kauaʻi High School graduate and will be attending Stanford University to study human biology to become a Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician. Jeanine interned at Wilcox Medical Center, which solidified her career aspirations. She has been active in cross country, tennis, and several clubs including the National Honor Society (NHS), Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), Key Club, and Student Council. She was also involved with her high school jazz band and symphony program, and she is an accomplished musician who is able to play five instruments.

Jeanine is described by her teachers as contagiously happy and humbly intelligent with a vibrant and positive personality that her peers flock to and appreciate. She impressed our scholarship interview panel with her passion for biology and dedication to healthcare. In addition to her involvement in sports, clubs and electives, she volunteered with nonprofit organization Mālama Hulēʻia, where she researched phytoplankton species in the ‘Alekoko Fishpond. Her efforts in applying scientific knowledge to real-world environmental issues assisted the organization in enhancing their restoration plans to strengthen the native ecosystem.

Madison Silva - Kapaʻa High School

Madison Silva is a Kapaʻa High School graduate and will attend Willamette University to study biology with the goal of becoming a physician or surgeon. She participated in Chaminade University’s early college dual enrollment program and also gained practical experience at Wilcox Hospital via their Nurse Aid Program. Madison credits her teacher Kara Kitamura for inspiring her to pursue healthcare, instilling a love of learning, and supporting her in her studies.

Known for her determination and work ethic in both academics and athletics, Madison loves to challenge herself and is always willing to take on tasks that others may not want to do. Her leadership and dedication are sure to drive her success in the medical field and inspire those around her.

Life hasn’t always been easy for Madison, but she will not let that diminish her spark. Her fierce competitiveness and personal drive are evident in the way she tackles life. “Madison has had many challenges in life that could have brought most young adults down,” Ms. Kitamura said. “Instead, she has flourished in spite of them.” Ms. Kitamura’s encouragement to work hard and excel academically has resulted in Madison being the first in her family to attend college!

Sofia Saunders - Waimea High School

Sofia Saunders is a graduate of Waimea High School and will be attending the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa to study Architecture and Environmental Design. Her goal is to return to Kauaʻi and design environmentally conscious architecture. As a talented graphic designer, Sofia’s work for the Kaua‘i Forest Bird Project was recognized at the state level and awarded three Gold Pele American Advertising Awards. For her senior project and as a volunteer, Sofia applied her design skills to help Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, a local nonprofit, rebrand and effectively engage younger generations in their work to create healthier marine life.

Sofia has found a way to merge her two passions for sustainability and design. Her ultimate goal is to become a licensed architect and create innovative, socially focused, and sustainable designs that will contribute to a healthier way of living.

Inspired by her mother, Sofia shared that her mom instilled in her the values of creativity, open-mindedness, and kindness from a young age. These values have led her to become the person she is today, and she strives daily to not take anything for granted and to give back to those around her in everything she does.