Kristina Leialoha Kaleimamahu, a Hawaiʻi Community College student, has faced challenges to earning a degree in higher education. However, her determination has helped to propel her in her journey, recently earning a place as a 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar. Kaleimamahu will receive a $1,000 scholarship as part of her prize.
“As a single mother of five sons and the first to graduate from college in my family of 12, I have faced many challenges and overcame many obstacles. I have learned to be resilient,
resourceful, and determined in pursuing my goals and dreams,” said Kaleimamahu, “I plan to use my education and experience to help others who are struggling with addiction and other issues.”
Kaleimamahu earned her Associate of Arts degree in Liberal arts and will be transferring to University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa to earn her bachelor’s degree in Social Work.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion.
Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service.
