Franchise owner/operator of six McDonald’s on the island of Maui, Grelyn Rosario, brought holiday cheer in the form of a $10,000 multi-year gift to Chaminade’s campus recently, stating that he was pleased to re-engage with the university and hoped to inspire future entrepreneurs and students through his example of giving back.
Last year, Rosario participated in the alumni reunion’s “50-Minute University” with an informative session during which he shared his path to owning and operating McDonald’s restaurants. Having gotten an early start at McDonald’s himself as a second-generation franchisee, Rosario found the time and discipline to attended Chaminade University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in history in 1994 and an MBA in 1998. While on campus, he reminisced fondly about his time as a student, noting that the campus has become much more beautiful during the years since his graduation
With a strong belief in giving back to the community, Rosario serves on numerous boards including Maui United Way and previously Maryknoll’s board. He created a fund in the Philippines to support educational projects, feed needy children and provides the necessary materials to upkeep churches in Magsingal Ilocos Sur, the area where his mom grew up. The Philippines Consulate General and the City Council of Valenzuela have also recognized Rosario for his contributions to the Filipino community.
