The Akash and Shai Kuruvilla Memorial Scholarship Fund, Inc. was formed in the Fall of 2007 to remember the life of Akash Jacob Kuruvilla and to continue his legacy of excellence and generosity posthumously. Having committed to honor, leadership, diversity, integrity, loyalty and wisdom, Akash Kuruvilla influenced a multitude that had the pleasure of being in his presence. The ideal scholarship recipients will embody those same principles and shall be committed to positively affecting the community throughout their collegiate years and beyond.

In 2007 when we were deeply affected by the passing of Akash Kuruvilla, we believed that the best way to remember him was by giving others the chance to pursue a college education. To date, we have helped 12 scholars chasing the American Dream. This past December, the lives of the Kuruvilla Family and AKMSF Team were once again changed by the untimely passing of Akash's sister, Shai Kuruvilla. In the time that we had with Shai, she was a source of generosity, gentleness and joy. Her life will forever be remembered by those who had the opportunity to know her. She had the ability to bring a smile to anyone's face with her sense of humor and witty personality. In short, she became a sister to all of us involved in this endeavor.

We, in conjunction with the Kuruvilla Family, have decided to change the official name of our fund to the Akash and Shai Kuruvilla Memorial Scholarship Fund to memorialize two very special individuals who have profoundly changed our lives. We will also be increasing the number of scholarships we award each year. We hope that the spirit of Akash and Shai will illuminate the lives of our scholars, who will in turn carry on that legacy in their future accomplishments.

The Akash and Shai Kuruvilla Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to 3 recipients in the amount of $1000 for each recipient with $500 given at the beginning of the academic year and $500 given at the midpoint of the academic year upon maintaining GPA requirements and enrollment as a full time student. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in an accredited college or university in the United States and be pursuing a Bachelor's degree. This scholarship is open to any field of study. Candidates for this scholarship must meet all of the requirements outlined in the online application by the appointed deadline. Late applicants will not be considered. The ideal candidate must demonstrate excellence in leadership, diversity, integrity and academia. The selection committee will also base its decisions on financial need, content of character and the candidates potential to make an impact on his/her peers and community.