Meet SPIO's 2022 Academic Scholarship Recipient, Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas
SPIO's 2022 Academic Scholarship Recipient, Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas. Courtesy of Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas
Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas is the recipient of the $5,000 2022 SPIO Academic Scholarship.
Degree: 3rd Year Ph.D. student - Doctorate in Political Science, specialization in Indigenous Politics, and an Advanced Graduate Degree in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
University: University of Hawai'i at Mānoa
Bio: Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas is a CHamoru and Samoan poet, scholar, activist, and educator born and raised in the island of Guåhan. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Indigenous Politics and an advanced graduate certificate in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.
“Saina ma'åse' and fa'afetai to my parents, siblings, and partner for loving and believing in me. A big thank you to Heoli Osorio and Kalani Reyes for your words of support—this was not possible without you both.” - Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas
Why is it important to have Pacific representation in higher education?
Pacific Islander representation in higher education is not merely important for visibility, but it lights up a path to inspire and encourage our youth to continue dreaming about their future, whether in the academy, in the community, or beyond.
How is this scholarship impacting your education?
I am so honored to receive this award, which will help financially support me as I head into the proposal and dissertation writing stages of my doctoral program. This award is further significant because it is from my community, the inspiration and passion behind my studies, which is an affirming reminder to continue working hard in progressing toward my degree.
SPIO's 2022 Academic Scholarship Recipient, Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas. Courtesy of Ha'åni Lucia Falo San Nicolas
What are your career and education goals?
After receiving my doctorate, I hope to become a university professor and scholar in order to continue teaching and writing joyful, hopeful, and powerful stories about our Pacific peoples.
Any tips to students applying for scholarships?
Do not let the fear of rejection keep you from applying or pursuing scholarship, academic, employment, and other opportunities. You are worthy of receiving all the awards and recognition, and you will never know the outcome unless you try.