Building Community, Connecting Hearts

We did it!

In 2012, Lester and Marian Kaneta dreamed of starting a program that would offer hope for students who felt a college was unattainable. Their vision led to a partnership with Kapi‘olani Community College and the founding of the Lunalilo Scholars Program. 

For the past 10 years, the Kanetas have worked diligently to expand the program and build community partners. They remain steadfast in this vision and their commitment to the scholars. 

The one-year full scholarship and support provided through the Lunalilo Scholars Program has become the key to success for many of us and what better way would there be to honor what the Kanetas have given to us, than to pay it forward and give back?

Recognizing the impact, opportunity and hope the Lunalilo Scholars Program has offered to so many, the Lunalilo Scholars alumni community is establishing the Kaneta Leadership Award. 

The Kaneta Leadership Award will provide scholarship funding for a Lunalilo Scholar in their second year of studies. 

Will you help us to meet our goal of raising $35,000 to endow the leadership fund? With nearly 600 Lunalilo alumni—if each alum donates only $10, we will be one fifth of the way to our goal. And if you’re a family member, friend, or educator who understands the importance of college, we kindly ask you to join us and help with a contribution.

Gifts of every amount make a difference. 

Please make a gift today!