University of Hawaiʻi Maui College students interested in pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and STEM-related fields within a Hawaiian Studies and cultural context can now apply for performance-based incentives through the Kahikina O Ka Lā program. Supported by the National Science Foundation, Kahikina O Ka Lā combines current STEM and STEM-related curricula with traditional Hawaiian cultural knowledge. Over the course of the next academic year Kahikina O Ka Lā will develop multiple STEM and STEM-related programs to assist youth from K-12, undergraduate, and graduate levels as well as provide instructional opportunities for teachers and community leaders.

“Kahikina O Ka Lā is committed to guiding UHMC students to careers and leadership roles both locally and on a global stage,” said Damien K Cie, Project Director for Kahikina O Ka Lā.

For the 2012-2013 academic year approximately sixty students in STEM and STEM-related fields will benefit from the program. Applicants will be ranked on preference using multiple criteria such as GPA, course units completed, and academic interests and goals. Awarded students will receive continuous academic support through program counselors and an annual performance-based stipend award in the amount of $3,500 or $5,000.

To continue in the program, participants must meet minimum semester requirements, including but not limited to 1) maintaining a GPA of 2.5 ($3,500) or 3.0 ($5,000) 2) enrolling in STEM and STEM-related curriculum, with a minimum of one Hawaiian Studies course per year 3) creating an academic plan and meeting with a counselor twice per semester and 4) participating in academic enrichment (i.e. tutoring, mentoring) and providing campus and community outreach.

The Kahikina O Ka Lā program is funded through The Advanced Technology Solar Telescope Mitigation Initiative awarded by the National Science Foundation in response to the application to erect the Advanced Technology Solar Telescope (ATST) upon the summit of Haleakala. To assist in addressing the impacts of the ATST, the college was given the opportunity to establish a program focused on providing a complement of science and technologically based curricula grounded in the context of Hawaiian culture. Over fifteen different STEM and STEM-related programs offered at the University of Hawai’i Maui College are eligible for this initiative, including Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dental Hygiene, Electronic and Computer Engineering. Kahikina O Ka Lā welcomes and encourages all incoming and current UHMC students to apply.

For further information regarding the Kahikina O Ka Lā program visit maui.hawaii.edu/hikina or email hikina@hawaii.edu.