NPIEN Annual Conference Attended by 270!

OVER 270 PARTICIPATE IN NPIEN’S 7TH ANNUAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Paramount High School, Los Angeles, CA.

Keynote Speaker, James Kawika Riley, from the Big Island, Hawaii, spoke of his experiences as a McNair Scholar. Originally denied the opportunity to apply for financial aid, because Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, “are not underrepresented minorities,” Riley helped to reform federal rules that formerly excluded Pacific Islanders from thousands of dollars to support their college dreams. Other presenters were Ukulele Instructor Uncle Henry Kamae, Cabrillo High School (Long Beach, CA) Teacher Zobeida Castillo, and Wilson Financial Services, “How to Fund for Education.” Performing groups included the presentation of the Island Nation Flags by Boy Scout Troop 120 of Bellflower, CA, and dance performances by Hughes Middle School of Long Beach and Paramount High School. Dannica Ofisa, former Lakewood High School student, and current California State University, Fullerton student, received the Christina Diaz Scholarship. NPIEN recognized 37 student scholars, and 4 teachers, and 4 community members for contributions to Pacific Islander education during the conference’s closing ceremony. A special thanks to Major Sponsors Majestic Realty Foundation, California Credit Union, Penske Toyota Scion, TEAM referral Network, Gateway Business Bank, and State Farm Insurance.