The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa William S. Richardson School of Law is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Ulu Lehua Scholars Program, a groundbreaking initiative that has opened the doors of legal education to students from Hawaiʻi’s diverse communities since 1974.
Rooted in a deep commitment to social justice, the Ulu Lehua Scholars Program reflects the law school’s mission to make legal education accessible to those who demonstrate academic potential, leadership and a dedication to community service. Since the establishment of the program, the law school has graduated 445 scholars.
“The Ulu Lehua Scholars Program is an important aspect of fulfilling our mission as a law school committed to Hawaiʻi, the larger Pacific Region, and to social justice,” Dean Camille Nelson said. “We are proud of the ways in which this program has recognized talent in our communities both near and far, and the determination of people to make a difference through the uplift and insight that comes from a legal education.”
Each year, a select group of scholars—chosen for their academic promise and commitment to social justice—embark on a journey that begins with a tailored first-year curriculum designed to foster their growth in a supportive professional environment.
“I am so impressed every year with the caliber of our Ulu Lehua Scholars and the passion for justice that they bring to our Richardson community,” said Troy Andrade, director of the Ulu Lehua Scholars Program. “From our early days in the quarry as the Pre-Admission to Law School Program, our Lehua Program has guided some of the most talented legal minds in Hawaiʻi and across the Pacific to careers in service of others.”
Bronson Gonzales ‘26
Growing up in Waiʻanae, Gonzales says he witnessed firsthand the harmful stereotypes surrounding his community. Determined to break those negative narratives, he chose law school to challenge these perceptions and serve as a role model for future generations.
“The Ulu Lehua Scholars Program has provided me with a supportive community and mentorship, empowering me to push forward in my pursuit of justice,” Gonzales said.
Angie Anderson ‘25
As a former independent artist, Anderson pursued law school to become a legal advocate for underrepresented voices in Hawaiʻi’s arts and entertainment industry. She shared how meeting an alumnus during her first-year summer internship shows the strength of the Lehua network.
“The care and generosity extended to me during that time showed me how invaluable the Lehua Scholars program is—not just in law school, but in life and career,” Anderson said.
The UH law school will host a gala on November 2, to commemorate the program’s milestone and to raise support for future Lehua scholars. For more information, see the UH law school website.
