Hua receives First Wind scholarship

Jing Hua is enrolled at the University of California-Davis, where she will study Chemical Engineering.
HONOLULU — First Wind, an independent U.S.-based wind energy company, announced that Jing Hua will receive the company’s first renewable scholarship of $5,000 for up to four years.
Valedictorian of the Lahainaluna High School Class of 2010, Hua was recognized by First Wind officials in conjunction with the company’s groundbreaking ceremony on July 13 to celebrate the start of construction of its 30 MW Kahuku Wind project in Oahu.
“We are very pleased to recognize Jing as the first recipient of our four-year scholarship,” said Paul Gaynor, CEO of First Wind.
“Our scholarship program represents our support for young people who show an interest in and the capacity to contribute in the fields of environment, energy and science. Hawaii is home to some of our most innovative wind projects, so it is appropriate that we recognize one of the state’s future innovators today.”
In addition to granting one four-year scholarship of $5,000 annually to a top student nationwide, First Wind Scholars offers one-time $3,000 scholarships to support local high school students who display strong potential for a successful college experience, as well as interest in the environment, energy or the sciences.
Hua is the recipient of the company’s first four-year scholarship awarded through the company’s First Wind Scholars program. First Wind plans to announce the recipients of the one-time scholarships later this month.
As the recipient of First Wind’s four-year scholarship, Hua stood out from a number of very qualified students, all of whom went through a rigorous application process.
Hua has been a leader both inside the classroom as well as outside, where she has been active in the National Honor Society, Pacific Asian Affairs Council and the school’s Robotics Club.
First Wind’s 30 MW Kaheawa Wind Power project is located at Maalaea. Kaheawa Wind serves nearly 9 percent of Maui’s annual electricity needs with clean, renewable energy.
For more information on First Wind Scholars, visit www.firstwind.com/scholarships.