UH Hilo honored for language revitalization

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikōlani College of Hawaiian Language (KHUOK) has received the 2013 William Demmert Cultural Freedom Award from the National Indian Education Association (NIEA).

The award was presented to Director Dr. Keiki Kawai`ae`a during the NIEA’s 44th Annual Convention & Tradeshow held earlier this month in Rapid City, South Dakota. Established in 1970, NIEA is recognized as the premiere organization for advancing comprehensive educational opportunities for American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians throughout the United States.

As part of its mission, NIEA honors individuals, organizations and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to native education. The William Demmert Cultural Freedom Award recognizes KHUOK’s work in P-20 Hawaiian language revitalization and its positive impact on native student academic achievement.

“The faculty, staff and administration at Ka Haka `Ula O Ke`elikōlani are totally dedicated to its mission and works tirelessly to achieve it through its degree programs and many P-20 outreach efforts,” Kawai`ae`a said. “This award is a great honor, which recognizes over a generation of work that has made the College a leader in language and cultural revitalization.”