Building Futures: The Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation Scholarship

At the Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui, we are deeply committed to nurturing the potential of our island's bright young minds. A cornerstone of this commitment is our annual Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation (HRYF) Scholarship, which helps deserving Upcountry high school seniors pursue their dreams of higher education.

Our Club's Dedication to Upcountry Scholars

Every spring, our club proudly awards a $5,000 scholarship to one outstanding senior from an Upcountry high school. Our dedicated members have the privilege of interviewing a pool of talented applicants, learning about their aspirations and accomplishments. It's a testament to the remarkable talent on Maui that, often, many of the students we interview – and ultimately select – have previously been honored as our Students of the Month during that very school year, showcasing their consistent excellence and leadership. This personal connection reinforces our belief in their potential.

The Enduring Legacy of the Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation

The Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation (HRYF) itself is a testament to the visionary leadership within our Rotary District (District 5000). It was founded by Maurice J. “Sully” Sullivan during his impactful year as Rotary’s District Governor in Hawaii (1976-1977). Sully envisioned HRYF as a vital vehicle to help Hawaii’s high school graduates achieve their full potential by attending a college or university of their choice, whether here in Hawaii or on the mainland United States. His enduring desire was not only to support education but also to teach young people about the advantages of the free enterprise system, which he saw as fundamental to our democracy.

Incorporated in the State of Hawaii as a non-profit on September 3, 1976, HRYF has steadily grown under the guidance of its Charter, bylaws, and dedicated leadership, including "Sully" himself who served as its president for a decade.

A History of Empowering Generations

Since its very first scholarship was granted in 1977, the Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation has made an incredible impact. As of March 18, 2018, HRYF has proudly awarded 1,750 scholarships with a monumental total value of $6,488,313.

In memory of Maurice J. Sullivan, who passed away in 1998, HRYF established the prestigious Maurice J. Sullivan Scholar Award, granting $10,000 annually to one outstanding student. In 2008, the Joanna Lau Sullivan Scholar Award was also established, providing another $10,000 to an exceptional student attending a four-year college or university in Hawaii.

The Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui is honored to be a part of this rich legacy, contributing directly to the foundation's mission and empowering the next generation of leaders from our beloved Upcountry community.

Join Us: Empowering the Next Generation

If witnessing the dedication of these students and contributing to their futures resonates deeply with you, consider joining the Rotary Club of Upcountry Maui. Our commitment to youth development, through scholarships, student recognition, and various programs, offers truly rewarding opportunities for service. If you're looking to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people and build lasting connections within our community, we invite you to contact us today or join us at an upcoming meeting. Discover how your passion for empowering youth can find a powerful home in Rotary.