• W. M. Keck Observatory Welcomes Kapili ‘Oihana Interns.

    July 13, 2021
    Waimea (Kamuela), Hawaii –  We are pleased to share that Briane Souki and Evan Powers have joined W. M. Keck Observatory this summer as part of our continued collaboration with the  Kamehameha Schools Kāpili ʻOihana Internship Program (KOIP).

    Evan is from Oʻahu and is a Punahou Schools alum; he is a rising senior at Lewis & Clark College and has been selected for Keck Observatory's External Relations internship. Briane is from Hawaiʻi Island and is a Kamehameha Schools - Keaʻau alum; she is a rising sophomore at University of Northern Colorado and has been selected for Keck Observatory's Digital Media internship; due to COVID, both internships are being conducted virtually.

    We are grateful to KOIP for this opportunity to provide workforce development experiences for students. The program expands upon Keck Observatory's commitment to serve as an ingenuity incubator for the next generation by offering career development pathways in astronomy for Hawaiʻi students; in addition to KOIP, such efforts include the Keck Observatory High School Student Employment program, Akamai Workforce Initiative, and Maunakea Scholars program.


    Briane Souki
    Q: Tell us about yourself.
    I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) where I am majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice. I was born and raised on the Big Island and visit home during the winter break and summers where I love to go paddling with friends and spend time at the beach. After playing sports consistently throughout high school I continued team sports activities by joining the Ultimate Frisbee Club and Volleyball Club during my time at UNC.

    Q: Why were you compelled to apply for an internship at Keck Observatory through the Kāpili ʻOihana program?
    As a Kamehameha Schools alumni, I always admired the dedication of the Kamehameha Schools staff who have allowed students to have professional opportunities in programs such as Kāpili ‘Oihana. I wanted to take advantage of this opportunity to not only establish connections professionally but also to develop my skills working with others in a virtual environment to create content in various digital platforms.

    Q: What do you hope to get out of your experience at Keck Observatory?
    I hope to build meaningful connections that last, and to be able to experience the efforts taken to stay true to the mission of Keck Observatory of inspiring young adults and scientists alike in the pursuit of knowledge in science and astronomy.

    Q: Fun fact?
    I played the trombone in concert band for 7 years!

    Evan Powers
    Q: Tell us about yourself.
    I graduated from Punahou School in 2018 and I am going into my senior year at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. I am majoring in Sociology and Anthropology with a minor in Economics.

    Q: Why were you compelled to apply for an internship at Keck Observatory through the Kāpili ʻOihana program?
    I was very interested in working in the external relations field as well as learning more about what Keck Observatory does for the people of Hawaiʻi Island and how they make various scientific discoveries. I really thought it would benefit me to intern in such a place where people can make space seem closer, rather than distant miles away. I was also intrigued by the people at Keck Observatory. During my first few days, the staff at Keck Observatory encouraged me to succeed at this internship in every way possible and made me feel like I was at home.

    Q: What do you hope to get out of your experience at Keck Observatory?
    I hope to become a more proficient and detailed writer, as well as learn how to build and maintain connections and networks in the Hawaiʻi community. I believe that this internship will help better my understanding about working together to build relationships and new community outreach programs.

    Q: Fun fact?
    I am a member of the Lewis & Clark College football team in which I play running back and kick returner. I have been a member of the football team since my freshman year of college!