LIHUE — The Mamoru and Aiko Takitani Foundation Inc. has named three high school seniors from Kauai as recipients of its annual Legacy Scholarship Program.
Charlene Tan of Kauai High School received the Aiko Takitani Outstanding Student Scholarship Award of $10,000, one of the foundation’s top two awards. Iris Murakami from Kapaa High School and Isabella Ancharski from Island School each received $2,000 scholarships as Takitani Scholars selected by their schools.
The students were among 62 recipients, one from each qualifying public and independent school in the state, who received scholarships based on academic achievement, community service and financial need. In total, the foundation awarded $176,000 to students throughout the state in its Legacy Scholarship Program this year.
“Mr. and Mrs. Takitani founded Hawaiian Host, and knew hard work, innovation and commitment to excellence were key factors in their success,” said KSSK Radio personality Michael W. Perry, Takitani Foundation board chairman.
“The Takitanis wanted to recognize those same qualities in Hawaii’s outstanding students with support to further their education.”
Tan, daughter of Ronald Tan and Rosellyn D’Amato, achieved a distinguished academic record throughout high school. She has been in the National Honor Society since her sophomore year, and was also a member of the Science Honor Society, where she tutored others in science and psychology and participated in community-service events.
Tan will attend the University of Washington in the fall.
Murakami is the daughter of Hideaki and Yasuko Murakami, and is a member of her school’s National Honor Society, JASH (a Japanese trivia competition team), and also participated on her school’s air riflery and robotics teams.
Ancharski is the daughter of Michael Ancharski and Carrie Brennan. Her strong academic work earned her recognition on both the Head of School’s List and High Honor Roll. Ancharski received her school’s College Algebra and International Relations awards in her junior year for her excellence in those areas, and was the captain of Island School’s volleyball teams her sophomore and senior years.
Congratulations Charlene, Rose, and Mark! You are wonderful parents and we are all so proud of your incredible daughter, as well as all of your beautiful children! Good luck Charlene, your future is bright!!