Since 2020, the Wailea Community Association (WCA) has been changing the lives of hundreds of University of Hawaiʻi Maui College Nursing Program students. With nearly $300,000 in donations, including almost $100,000 this year alone, the WCA’s support has been crucial in ensuring that students can obtain their nursing credentials without financial strain.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the WCA shifted its scholarship strategy to support UH Maui College nursing students in three critical areas: covering graduates’ licensing fees, paying for their national board exams and ground transportation, and providing required study software. Additionally, the WCA offers scholarships for graduates pursuing their bachelor of science degrees in nursing.
Helping future helpers
Many students juggle full-time work and family responsibilities while attending college. Since spring 2020, approximately 60 licensed practical nurse students and 186 registered nurse students have graduated from UH Maui College, all benefiting from WCA’s contributions.
“The Wailea Community Association has helped me fulfill my educational goals and I am truly grateful for its generosity,” said Mary Jicel Butac, who graduated with a bachelors of science in nursing in May, and works at Hale Makua as a registered nurse. “I would not be in this position without the assistance of the WCA. I will continue to help my community as an RN and hope to give back in the same magnitude as the WCA has.”
Frank “Bud” Pikrone, WCA general manager, emphasized the importance of supporting local healthcare.
“Healthcare is always a concern—whether an accident, virus or ailments that come with aging—so it makes helping develop the best nursing care for the future of our island community a necessity,” Pikrone said. “WCA is proud to be a part of the UH nursing program.”
The WCA’s commitment to supporting the UH Maui College Nursing Program ensures that Maui’s future nurses are well-equipped to serve their community and underscores the importance of community involvement in developing a robust healthcare system.
“We are incredibly appreciative of the Wailea Community Association and their unwavering support of the UH Maui College Nursing Program,” said UH Maui College Allied Health Department Chair Mary Farmer. “We are so grateful for their generosity and giving spirit!”
