More than 100 Kamehameha high school seniors earn college associate degrees

In a ceremony today, 106 seniors from Kamehameha Schools Kapālama graduated with their Associate of Arts degrees from Hawai‘i Pacific University, more than three weeks ahead of receiving their high school diplomas on May 29.

The students’ Hawai‘i Pacific University graduation ceremony took place at the Hawai‘i Convention Center on O‘ahu, followed by a reception and lei presentation for haumāna and ‘ohana at Kaʻiwakīloumoku Hawaiian Cultural Center.

“Seeing so many of our high school seniors walk across that stage to receive their associate degree is emotionally fulfilling,” said Wendy Erskine, poʻo kumu (principal) of Kamehameha Schools’ Kapālama Kula Ki‘eki‘e (high school).

The Kapālama Class of 2023 represents the inaugural group of students earning their AA in the dual-credit program fully funded by Kamehameha Schools. Kapālama kumu, who hold master’s degrees, were vetted by Hawai‘i Pacific University to teach Kapālama curriculum rooted in Hawaiian culture-based education that aligns with Hawai‘i Pacific University’s university courses.

Enrolled haumāna, grades 9 through 12, earn college credits while completing their high school requirements. Classes include collegiate-level Literature of the Pacific, ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i and Astronomy.

“HPU’s dual-credit program increases Hawaiʻi high school students’ earning potential immediately out of high school while simultaneously reducing the time and expense of earning a college degree,” said Dr. Jennifer Walsh, senior vice president and provost at Hawai‘i Pacific University.

In addition to saving money on college tuition, haumāna who continue their education at Hawai‘i Pacific University are eligible for significant tuition discounts and scholarships, like Kamehameha Schools Kapālama senior and Associate of Arts student Noel Ah Mook Sang.

She will attend Hawai‘i Pacific University in the fall to finish her bachelor’s degree in computer science.

“Getting the opportunity to pursue higher education has motivated me to be more studious and appreciative of the education I’ve been gifted,” Sang said.