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Event Date: November 21, 2013

Honolulu CC donors and scholarship recipients enjoyed time together at this year’s Mahalo Reception. Chancellor Erika Lacro warmly welcomed guests and recognized scholarship recipients and the generous donors who are helping students succeed.

Scholarship recipient Michael Handy shared his moving story. He graduated with a degree in finance, and also earlier in life, chose a path that led him to jail.  While incarcerated, he seized the opportunity for self-betterment and helped others obtain their GED.  Once he served his time he obtained an AS in small vessel fabrication and repair at Honolulu CC.  Through his experience at the Marine Education and Training Center he learned about the Polynesian Voyaging Society and volunteered to help refurbish the Hokule'a and her escort boats in preparation for the World Wide Voyage. Michael is now enrolled in the construction management program. A former Phi Theta Kappa member, he shared his deep appreciation for the faculty and staff who have helped shaped his path, and the donors, like the Construction Management Association of America who are opening doors for students like him.

UHF Director of Scholarship Development Malia Peters reflected on the impact Mr. Charles Hemenway has made through his estate gift that has provided more than 6,500 scholarships to promising UH students. She then showed a 6 min. video featuring Hemenway scholarship recipients, and leaders in our community who shared their memories of this visionary philanthropist.

Guests enjoyed catching up with old friends, and making new ones, and hearing how the spirit of giving is alive and well at Honolulu CC.

Photos by Scott Nishi | UH Foundation