The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) signed a memorandum of agreement on December 19, renewing their collaboration to enhance outreach and recruitment efforts while offering students valuable opportunities for academic and professional growth through the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI) scholarship program.
This MOA, signed by Coast Guard Rear Adm. Sean Regan, commander of 14th District, and UH Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno, renews a previous agreement signed in 2019 and expands on the engagement between the two institutions. The updated agreement will span four years and includes more comprehensive plans for USCG participation in UH Mānoa events and initiatives.
“The partnership is designed to create more awareness about the USCG’s recruitment efforts and provide mentorship and career development support for students interested in transitioning to the Coast Guard,” said Bruno. “We are proud to work alongside the U.S. Coast Guard in developing future leaders who will contribute to the Coast Guard’s multiple missions, including maritime safety, security and environmental stewardship.”
Opportunities through CSPI program
Through the CSPI scholarship program, one UH Mānoa student each year will have the opportunity to receive a scholarship that provides up to $25,000 annually, along with full pay and benefits at the E-3 grade. The CSPI-Student Loan Repayment Program is also available, offering up to $60,000 in student loan repayment assistance.
“I feel incredibly privileged to be part of the CSPI program,” said Officer Trainee Brandon Reed, a current scholarship recipient from UH Mānoa who will graduate in spring 2025 with a bachelorʻs degree in business administration. “The program has given me the opportunity to pursue my academic goals while heading toward a meaningful career in the Coast Guard. Training with local units in Oʻahu and assignments in the continental U.S. have prepared me for Officer Candidate School, which will follow my final semester at UH Mānoa.”
Supporting student success
The program has given me the opportunity to pursue my academic goals while heading toward a meaningful career in the Coast Guard.
—Brandon Reed, CSPI scholar
UH Mānoa stands out as one of only six Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions and one of two Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian institutions participating in the CSPI program.
Simone Mausz, a CSPI scholarship recipient from Xavier University and now a USCG Commander in the Coast Guard 14th District, played a key role in fostering the agreement.
“Being a recipient of this scholarship not only opened doors to a life-changing career and further educational opportunities, but it also empowered me to believe in my potential,” Mausz said. “Now, I’m honored to pass on the same opportunity to others, helping them turn their aspirations into achievements.”
Strengthening collaboration
USCG will participate in campus events such as the Discover UH Mānoa Open House, career fairs, and presentations to student groups. The MOA also calls for the exploration of collaborative programs between USCG and UH Mānoa that could benefit both parties and further support student success.
To apply or learn more about the CSPI program, please visit your local recruiting office.
