HMSA awards 15 outstanding students $75,000 in scholarships (2021)

HMSA awards 15 outstanding students $75,000 in scholarships

Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program celebrates 16 years.

The Hawai’i Medical Service Association (HMSA) awarded $75,000 in scholarships to 15 high school seniors statewide as part of its 2021 Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program.

Now in its 16th year, the program recognizes Hawaii high schools and high school seniors who excel in academics, athletics, community service, healthy activities, and sportsmanship.

“Supporting local students in their pursuit of higher education is essential, especially during times of challenge and uncertainty,” said HMSA President and Chief Executive Officer Mark M. Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S. “We honor these amazing students who’ve shown that excellence doesn’t stop at the end of the school day – it extends to helping those in our community.”

Since 2005, HMSA has sponsored the Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program in partnership with the Hawaii High School Athletic Association (HHSAA).

Scholarship judging criteria was modified this year to open applications to a wider pool of students. All 2021 scholarship winners displayed the key qualities of the Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program.

Traditionally, the program also acknowledges high schools whose student-athletes excel both on and off the field. No school awards were presented this year due to numerous changes and restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

HMSA Kaimana Awards & Scholarship Program 2021 Student Scholarship Winners

Big Island Interscholastic Federation

Alexander Bell, Kealakehe High School

Alianna West-Rodrigues, Hawaii Preparatory Academy

Interscholastic League of Honolulu

Kenna Higa, Kamehameha Schools Kapālama

Sophia Lee, Kamehameha Schools Kapālama

Penicia Pene, Sacred Hearts Academy

Sumin Sung, Iolani School

Kauai Interscholastic Federation

Alakai Gonsalves, Kapaa High School

Wailana Marvin, Island School

Maui Interscholastic League

Ryllah-Rae Rodrigues, Lanai Elementary & High School

Cael Yasutake, Lahainaluna High School

Oahu Interscholastic Association

Min Seo Kim, Kalani High School

Katrina Kuo, Kalani High School

Rodley Nelson Jr., Moanalua High School

Christopher Wolfersberger, Kahuku High & Intermediate School

Jing Ting Zheng, Kalani High School

For biographies and images of all scholarship recipients, visit HMSA.com/kaimana.

About HMSA

Caring for the people of Hawaii is our promise and our privilege. Working together with employers, partners, and physicians and other health care providers, we promote well-being; develop reliable, affordable health plans; and support members with clear, thoughtful guidance.

HMSA is the most experienced health plan in the state, covering more than half of Hawaii’s population. As a recognized leader, we embrace our responsibility to strengthen the health and well-being of our community.

Headquartered on Oahu with centers and offices statewide to serve our members, HMSA is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

####