Be Kind to a Student was the motto that he lived by, Dr. Niki Libarios was an elementary school teacher, community college counselor and academic advisor, and so much more.
Dr.Libarios was a passionate advocate for educational equity and a champion of local students. His research interests centered on Filipino recruitment, persistence and community college transfer to higher education. Having been a community college transfer student himself he believed in paying it forward through kindness and empowerment.
To honor his enduring legacy and life’s work, The Tinalak Filipino Education Council founded the Dr. Niki Libarios #BeKindToAStudent Scholarship. And through the generosity of our donors last year, 4 students received scholarship awards, here is what two recipients had to say:
"Thanks to the #BeKindToAStudent Scholarship, I was able to continue my studies and work that will hopefully help other students like me (Filipinx, female, first-gen) see themselves in the curriculum and in STEM. A little kindness and encouragement goes a long way, especially for students that are doing things that are firsts." - Diana
"The #BeKindToAStudent Scholarship has helped make it possible for me to follow my dreams as I continue to work towards getting an education and a degree where I will then have the opportunity to give back to my community and teach. I plan to help teach children and give them the opportunity to be all that they can be, just like you have given me." - Lacey
Your gift to the Dr. Niki Labarios #BeKindToAStudent Scholarship will assist UHM COE students who are committed to serving the Filipino community.
