Five Kaua‘i students awarded newly created scholarships through Andy Irons Foundation

The Andy Irons Foundation awarded its first-ever scholarships to five Kaua‘i students.

The foundation, founded in honor of the late three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons, honored the inaugural recipients during a ceremony on Aug. 9 at Pine Trees in Hanalei.

Led by Lyndie Irons and Danielle Tache, Andy’s wife and mother, the foundation’s mission is to celebrate Irons’ legacy by supporting community-based programs for young people struggling with addiction, mental illness and learning disabilities.

“This scholarship is an extension of our commitment to Kaua‘i’s keiki,” said Lyndie Irons. “Andy loved this island and its people, and we want to continue opening doors for the next generation to pursue their education and dreams.”

The following students were honored last week:

• Zander Satterlee-King, heading to the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
• Stone Abubo, beginning his first year at UC Berkeley
• Shyloh McCann, entering her second year at UCLA
• Sofia Smith, starting her first year at the University of Massachusetts Boston
• Ilikea Kamalani, attending Tropic Bird Flight Service

Recipients and their families shared their excitement for the year ahead, traded advice, and shared stories about growing up together on Kaua‘i. Lei were given to each student, and Brittany Schwartz, owner of the popular food truck Hanalei Burger, donated fries and burgers for all in attendance.

The ceremony also gave special recognition to David Mireles, a college counselor at Kapa‘a High School, who has spent countless hours helping local students prepare for college. From helping with essays and filling out applications to figuring out financial aid, he’s been an invaluable resource for college-bound students on Kauai, always offering his time and support without any expectation of return, according to a news release from the foundation.

Founded in 2011, the Andy Irons Foundation began as a way to address the challenges Andy himself faced, using his story to help break the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction.

Starting locally in the Hawaiian Islands and expanding globally, the foundation partners with impactful organizations and programs to ensure no child struggles alone.

For more information about the Andy Irons Foundation or to make a donation, visit andyironsfoundation.org.