Hawaii Opens $2K Scholarships for LGBTQ+ Seniors

High school seniors in Hawaiʻi now have a meaningful opportunity to fund their college dreams while celebrating who they are.

The Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation just opened applications for its 2026 Rainbow Legacy Scholarships, awarding $2,000 each to LGBTQ+ students planning to attend college or vocational programs. The deadline is February 28, giving students three weeks to apply through the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation scholarship portal.

"More than financial support, the Rainbow Legacy Scholarship is a celebration of leadership, resilience and dedication to Hawaiʻi's future," said Executive Director Randy Soriano. The foundation seeks students who embody hope, equality, unity, and service to their island communities.

Eligible students must be Hawaii residents graduating high school this spring with at least a 2.5 GPA. While any student can apply, the foundation gives preference to those who identify as LGBTQ+, demonstrate financial need, and plan to stay in or return to Hawaiʻi after their studies.

The foundation especially values students with strong volunteer experience and service records. Letters of recommendation play a key role in the selection process, highlighting how applicants have contributed to making their communities better.

The Ripple Effect

These scholarships do more than ease the financial burden of tuition and textbooks. They send a powerful message to young people across Hawaiʻi that their authentic selves are valued and their dreams matter.

By investing in LGBTQ+ students committed to returning home, the foundation helps ensure Hawaiʻi's future leaders reflect the islands' beautiful diversity. Every scholarship recipient becomes part of a legacy of inclusion, potentially inspiring younger students who see themselves in these success stories.

The foundation's commitment to keeping diversity, equity, and inclusivity at the forefront helps build a stronger, more welcoming Hawaiʻi for everyone. Supporting today's students means supporting tomorrow's teachers, healthcare workers, business owners, and community leaders who will shape the islands for decades to come.

In a thoughtful touch, the foundation accepts applications in English, ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, and Pacific Islander languages, honoring the multicultural fabric of the islands. This inclusive approach ensures language barriers don't stand between deserving students and their educational goals.

Students ready to take the next step toward their future can find complete application details at the Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation website.