On a recent evening at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, the Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) held its Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner & Auction, an event dedicated to propelling students forward in fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The gathering succeeded in not only raising funds but also celebrating the achievements of young minds and educators who are making strides in these critical areas.
On August 23, the fundraiser spotlighted the exceptional work of students and a teacher who have shown immense dedication to bolstering STEM education in Hawaii. Honored with the Czechowicz Award, Maui High School physics teacher Michael Siopes was recognized for his long-standing service and commitment, "for embodying the values of lifelong learning and ʻohana with his students and colleagues," as reported by The Maui News. Siopes received a $5,000 cash award, acknowledging his decades of influence in shaping future scientists and innovators.
The Daniel K. Inouye Innovation Award was granted to Baldwin High School seniors Aileen Kim and Jeremiah Jacinto. They earned recognition for their AI chatbot project named "Kūlia Scholarships Connect," which simplifies the search for scholarships. "Our team is driven by a shared passion for equity in education and aims to remove barriers to financial aid through technology that empowers every student to reach their full potential," they told Maui Now. A $5,000 award was split between the promising students, with $2,500 for each.
The event also acknowledged the talent of Maui High School students who took home honorable mention prizes, each earning $1,000. Dominick Philippe Guiwa was honored for his project exploring fire retardant solutions, "From Tragedy to Innovation: Lahaina Fire Recovery through Fire Retardant Solutions," as noted by Maui Now. A student team consisting of Toby Naumov, Sarah Fehnestock, Ciana Cooper, Sophie Kato, and Joshua Mori caught the eye for their pragmatic 3D printed device, the "Stop the Bleed Tourniquet Simulator," designed to impart first-aid skills using a fabricated arm.
The attendees, including Hawaii News Now anchor Stephanie Lum and Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, engaged in an interactive signature game, with the evening's proceeds set to expand MEDB's STEM initiatives. Projects and innovations like the ones recognized demonstrate the event's larger aim, according to MEDB President and CEO Leslie Wilkins, to "celebrate the incredible talent and innovation of our students." Reflecting on the night's success, Wilkins emphasized, "Their achievements remind us that investing in STEM is an investment in leadership, opportunity, and the long-term prosperity of our community," as per a report by Maui Now.
