James J. Karam Scholarship

The James J. Karam Scholarship was established in 2013 by James J. Karam. Mr. Karam is President and founder of First Bristol Corporation, a N.E. Real Estate Development Company. Mr. Karam’s current and past professional and civic affiliations are extensive. He is on the Board of Directors of the largest community for profit health care system in New England, Steward Health Care System, and was formerly the Chair of the UMass Board of Trustees. Mr. Karam also serves on the Board of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate in Boston, MA and is an alumnus of UMass Dartmouth. Eligible applicants must be currently enrolled full-time, and have an overall GPA of 3.0 or above. They must also demonstrate financial need of at least $4,000 as defined by the financial aid office and be a permanent resident of the South Coast of Massachusetts which includes the following towns: Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, Freetown, New Bedford, Somerset, Swansea, and Westport. Students may also be a resident of the town of Tiverton, Rhode Island. All majors are eligible as well as students who have yet to declare a major. Preference is for residents of Fall River, MA.

Award
Varies
Deadline
03/01/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. In 500-750 words, submit a personal statement describing your educational and career goals and how you plan to achieve them. Explain how your academic interests, personal experiences, or accomplishments—beyond what is reflected in your transcript—have influenced these goals. In your response, address: Your short- and long-term educational objectives, your career aspirations and the impact you hope to make in your field or community, how being awarded this scholarship would support your education, reduce barriers, and help you progress toward your career goals. Your essay should clearly demonstrate your motivation, preparedness, and commitment to achieving your goals.
  2. I agree that my completed scholarship application, essay, and UMass general application information may be reviewed by the University of Massachusetts Foundation Scholarship Committee. I also give permission to release such information to the donors, should I be selected as a recipient.