WAILUKU - Forty-five students who passed their high school equivalency test were honored at Hui Malama Learning Center's 36th annual graduation last month.

About 100 people - including Council Members Mike Victorino and Sol Kaho'ohalahala and former Mayor Alan Arakawa, who is also president of the Hui Malama board - helped the students celebrate May 27 at Hui Malama.

The 45 completed the preparation course for the national standardized General Educational Development (GED) test and received their passing scores from the Maui Community School for Adults.

Four special awards were presented.

Maisie Rapisura was honored with the Imua Award for her hard work and persistence during the school year.

Dan Brito received the third annual Maryann Nakama Award, which recognizes the student whose actions best honor the memory of former Hui Malama teacher Maryann Nakama. Jimmy Nakama, husband of Maryann Nakama, and her sister Irene Pavao of Hana, observed the award presentation.

Brycie Iwamasa was the recipient of the 2008-09 'Ohi'a Award, given to the student who best represents the values of dedication, determination, perseverance, resilience and strength.

The Academic Achievement Award was presented to Sachelle Bronstein. She was one of four Hui Malama students who scored more than 3,000 points on the GED test.

Guests and their families enjoyed entertainment provided by Hui Malama youth specialist Desmond Yap and students Serena Guzman and Cody Feig.

Graduates continued their celebration by attending the Maui Community School for Adults ceremony at the Baldwin Auditorium.

For information regarding Hui Malama programs and services, call 244-5911 or see Web site www.mauihui.org.