Waimanālo homestead resident awarded HPU scholarship

From left to right: Loreen and Willis Peahi (Shylee’s parents), Shayden Peahi (Shylee’s brother), scholarship recipient Shylee Peahi, Aunty Moana Akana (WHHA Board Member), Sam Moku (HPU VP of University Relations), Kamakana Aquino (WHHA Board Chairman), and Roxanne Hanawahine (WHHA Board Member)

Through a partnership with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and the Waimanālo Hawaiian Homes Association (WHHA), a Hawai‘i Pacific University scholarship — with a goal to educate more native Hawaiians — was awarded. The WHHA let students within the Waimanālo homestead know of the opportunity to apply for the scholarship, and Shylee Peahi was named the recipient.

A 2016 graduate of the Kamehameha Schools Kapālama campus, Peahi enters HPU this fall and plans to major in business and minor in human services.

“Being informed of my acceptance to Hawai‘i Pacific University was a moment of great joy,” Peahi, who has an older sister Shereen in the HPU Nursing program, said.   

Peahi wants to make a difference in her community through the business degree she strives to gain. She said “education is the key, unlocking the doorway for a better future.”

While a student at Kamehameha Schools, Peahi had many volunteer opportunities including work at lo‘i (irrigated terrace especially for taro), fishponds and restoration sites across the island. Additionally, as a Confirmandi of the St. John Vianney Church in Kailua, she assists and leads the organization through events that bring together neighboring communities. Peahi also serves as a member of the Pearl Harbor Hawaiian Civic Club.

“I will fulfill my responsibility in carrying out the obligation to serve and preserve the values, traditions and culture of the island of Hawai‘i,” Peahi said.