Raegan Hunt, a trailblazer in global engagement and community activism, shines bright as the recipient of the esteemed Paul S. Honda Scholarship from the Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC). Representing Hawaiʻi Technology Academy with pride, Raegan's dedication to fostering change and promoting literacy is truly commendable.
As Secretary of the HTA PAAC Club, Raegan plays a pivotal role in promoting intercultural understanding and leadership development. Her active participation in PAAC's programs Leadership Education And Development (LEAD) program and the Global Leadership Program highlights her commitment to building bridges and driving positive change.
Raegan shared the impact of PAAC, “PAAC has provided me with a platform to deepen my understanding of the world around me and has given me insights into diverse cultures and ongoing global challenges. In an era characterized by unprecedented global interconnectedness and complex geopolitical dynamics, organizations like PAAC play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders like myself. My journey with PAAC has been a transformation, expanding my understanding of global affairs and developing my commitment to creating positive change on a global scale.”
Raegan's impact extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her role in founding the Honu Library at HTA Elementary School, a testament to her commitment to education and community empowerment. Her involvement in organizations like the National Honor Society and the Debate Club showcases her dedication to academic excellence and critical thinking.
Despite her busy schedule, Raegan maintains an impressive 3.86 GPA while juggling part-time work and internships. Her dedication to civic engagement shines through her participation in programs like the Close Up Foundation civics program, where she traveled with a group of like-minded, civically engaged students to Washington D.C. There, they had the opportunity to meet with our nation's leaders, showcasing Raegan's commitment to advocating for meaningful change.
Inspiration stays close to home for Raegan; inspired by her fatherʻs leadership in the US. Air-force, Raegan says, “through his guidance, I learned to navigate the celestial tides of international affairs, recognizing the interconnectedness of our world and the delicate balance of diplomacy, just like he had. Yet, amidst the celestial grandeur, my father remained grounded, a beacon of stability amidst the cosmic chaos that was our life. His steadfast commitment to duty, like the gravitational pull of a star, anchored me in times of uncertainty, instilling within me resilience and a dedication to international peace-building. He steered me through the asteroid storms of life, teaching me to navigate through the stars even in the darkest of nights.”
Now, with the Paul S. Honda Scholarship in hand, Raegan is poised to pursue her dreams of studying international economics and business at the University of Texas San Antonio. Her commitment to addressing global issues and fostering sustainability promises a future filled with impactful contributions to the world.
Here's to a future where Raegan's leadership continues to inspire positive change and global citizenship!