Donors help keep Leeward students on the path to graduation

People usually worry about the big tuition bills, but it’s often the day-to-day costs of living that force students to put their education on hold. For a student juggling work and classes, an unexpected expense like an empty gas tank or mandatory textbook can easily be the breaking point that forces them to drop out.

This is why the Leeward Community College Enrichment Fund exists. To date, the Enrichment Fund has financially supported more than 70 students. Some have used it to pay for bus passes; others for gas and books. By taking care of these everyday necessities, the fund keeps temporary financial hurdles from turning into permanent roadblocks.

“Raising a family while working a full-time job and going back to school is not easy,” said Shantel Nomura. “The scariest thing about going back to school was thinking that I would be too old to learn again. But once school started, it just felt right. Without scholarships and a good support system from the counselors and staff I wouldn’t be able to see my dream come to fruition.”

A flexible fund that meets immediate needs

Beyond covering basic needs, the fund also helps underwrite student-led events, guest speakers and professional development programs so they remain completely free and accessible.

For Carlos Peñaloza, current chancellor of Leeward Community College and interim chancellor of UH West Oʻahu, this financial support is an indispensable part of how the college serves its diverse student body.

“Donor support helps ensure our students have the resources they need to grow and thrive in a rapidly changing world,” Peñaloza said. “Gifts to the Leeward CC Enrichment Fund give campus officials the flexibility to respond quickly to students’ needs – supporting emergency assistance, experiential learning opportunities, campus activities, and the technology and materials that enhance learning. They help us create opportunities that support student success across our campus communities.”

Removing barriers to graduation

This support is critical at Leeward CC, where the student population includes many first-generation and non-traditional learners. By removing financial barriers, the college ensures that everyone has an opportunity to graduate.

With financial hurdles challenging our students every semester, community support is essential to keeping this lifeline strong. Your donation ensures Leeward CC students don't have to choose between their everyday basic needs and their education.