The Center for Chinese Studies (CCS) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is pleased to announce the first recipient of the William Kwai Fong Yap Scholarship, Austin Tafoya from College of Arts, Languages & Literatures.
Established by the descendants of William Kwai-Fong Yap, who played a significant role in the founding of the University of Hawaiʻi, the scholarship is to provide support for students enrolled at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa (*UH Manoa”) with a focus on or concentration in Chinese studies.
The $1,500 scholarship was awarded to Austin whose studies combine Chinese language and culture with pre-medical training, reflecting a commitment to serving linguistically and culturally diverse communities in Hawaiʻi and the broader Pacific region.
Through coursework in Mandarin language and Chinese culture, Austin is developing the skills needed to communicate across cultural boundaries and to better understand how language and culture shape trust, perspective, and decision-making. These competencies are especially important in Hawaiʻi, where Chinese heritage continues to play a significant role in the community and where culturally responsive healthcare remains an important goal.
The William Kwai Fong Yap Scholarship supports UH Mānoa undergraduate students whose academic work engages Chinese studies. The Center for Chinese Studies encourages eligible students to apply through STAR and welcomes applicants from a wide range of disciplines whose studies incorporate Chinese language,art, culture, history, society, and etc.
Through scholarships such as this, CCS remains committed to supporting students whose academic work bridges cultures, disciplines, and communities.Please check CCS William Kwai Fong Yap Scholarship webpage for detailed information and email ccsgrant@hawaii.edu for any inquiries.
