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Publish Date: March 9, 2022

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

The Lunalilo Scholars Program is an opportunity for students to transform their lives through education. The program was designed to uniquely serve and support students who demonstrate academic potential, but lack the family and financial support to attend college. Community partners, including feeder high schools, who assist Native Hawaiian, underserved, and noncollege bound students refer applicants to the program.