University of Hawaii Maui College

University of Hawaii Maui College. It is a public community college and a member of the University of Hawaii system, located in Kahului on the island of Maui. The college offers a range of associate degrees, certificates, and several four-year bachelor's degree programs, serving as a vital educational and cultural hub for the county. Its mission emphasizes supporting the local community through career training, liberal arts education, and unique programs tied to Hawaiian culture and the island's economy.

History

The institution traces its origins to 1931 with the founding of the Maui Vocational School, which initially provided agricultural and trade instruction. It later evolved into the Maui Technical School before becoming Maui Community College in 1965 upon joining the newly formed University of Hawaii system. A significant milestone was reached in 2010 when the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii approved its current name to reflect its expanded role in offering baccalaureate education. The college's development has been closely intertwined with the growth of Maui's key industries, including tourism, agriculture, and, more recently, renewable energy and sustainable development.

Academics

The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and awards Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, and various Certificate of Achievement credentials. It has developed distinctive bachelor's degree programs such as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Sustainable Science Management and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Technology. Specialized academic offerings include programs in Hawaiian Studies, Aquaculture, Culinary Arts, and Hospitality and Tourism. The college also hosts the Hawaii State-approved Early College program, allowing high school students to earn college credit, and maintains strong transfer pathways to institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa and University of Hawaii at Hilo.

Campus

The main 78-acre campus is situated in central Kahului, near Kahului Airport and the commercial harbor of Kahului Harbor. Key facilities include the Kaʻaʻike building, which houses many student services and the Hale Keaʻa library. The campus features the ʻIke Leʻa science building, the Paʻina culinary arts complex, and the Maui Language Institute. It is also home to the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, which focuses on native Hawaiian and Polynesian plants, and the Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a frequent partner for events. The University of Hawaii Maui College also operates education centers in Hana and on the islands of Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi.

Student life

Student life is supported by the associated students of University of Hawaii government and various clubs, including the Phi Theta Kappa honor society. The college competes in intercollegiate athletics in the National Junior College Athletic Association, fielding teams known as the UH Maui College Pueos. Cultural events, such as the annual Maui Film Festival and celebrations for Makahiki season, are integral to campus life. The Kīpuka Native Hawaiian Student Center provides a focal point for cultural programming and support services, while the campus frequently hosts community events and workshops through its Office of Continuing Education and Training.

Notable people

Notable alumni include Charles K. Djou, a former U.S. Representative for Hawaii's 1st congressional district, and Kalei Gamiao, a renowned ukulele virtuoso and recording artist. Faculty and affiliates have included influential figures in Hawaiian studies and sustainability, such as cultural practitioner Charles "Chipper" Wichman. The college has also been a training ground for professionals in Hawaii's hospitality industry, including many executives for major resorts like the Grand Wailea and the Ritz-Carlton.

Category:Universities and colleges in Hawaii Category:Educational institutions established in 1931 Category:University of Hawaii system