The Japan-America Society of Colorado is proud to offer its members the Paul Maruyama Scholarship program.

Congratulations to previous winners of the Paul Maruyama Scholarship:

• 2019: Alex "Zander" Rooke
• 2018: Brenna Faricy
• 2017: Breanna Conner

1. Overview

• Purpose: To build a bridge between the US and Japan by providing JASSC members with the means to pursue a project or goal that promotes increased awareness, education, and understanding of Japanese culture. 

• Max Award Amount: $100 - $1,000

• Submit the JASSC 2026 P Maruyama Scholarship Application Form.pdf to the address below or email to naomi@japanamerica.org.

2. Eligibility Criteria

• Must be at least 15 years old.

• Open to individuals of all backgrounds; enrollment in a school or university is not required.

• Membership must be in good standing with JASSC.

• May not be a member or immediate family member of the selection committee or JASSC Board.

3. Application Requirements

1. Completed application form.

2. Personal Statement (500 words): Explain how you will use the award to build a cultural bridge that promotes increased awareness, education, and understanding between the citizens of Southern Colorado and Japan. 

   • Example uses may include, but are not limited to: 

   • • Developing, piloting, or supporting a program, workshop, or event

     • Creating a presentation or experience that could impact youth in either the US or Japan

3. Supporting travel to/from Japan with a targeted purpose

4. Budget Proposal: Must request a specific amount between $100 and $1000, with the usage of funds clearly broken down into a budget. Outline how you plan to use the funds (e.g., materials, reservations, venue fees, marketing, airfare, lodging, program fees, or other expenses).

5. Letter of Recommendation: From someone, such as a mentor, teacher, or professional, who can speak to your commitment and qualifications.

4. Selection Process

• Applications reviewed by the award selection committee.

• Selection will be based on … 

• • History of volunteer service to JASSC

  • How the use of the funds will support JASSC’s mission of promoting awareness, education, and understanding between the citizens of Southern Colorado and Japan  

  • Inclusion of all requested materials above

• Preference may be given to applicants who … 

• • Have already demonstrated a commitment by participating in volunteer activities

  • Have a specific purpose, use, or event in mind for the award

  • Plan to effect impact on the community, not just an individual

  • Include a basic timeline of when the funds will be used

5. Award Disbursement

• The applicant’s requested amount of funding is not guaranteed. The selection committee and JASSC board will review the request and agree on a reasonable amount based on the clarity of the application and budget proposal. 

• Disbursements be awarded in two checks. 

• 75% of the approved amount will be awarded right away.

• The remaining 25% is contingent upon the applicant sending either

• • A written report of their progress, between 250 and 500 words long, with at least one photo

  • Or a video between 3 and 10 minutes long. 

• Within 60 days of returning/completing their program/class/project, the recipient is required to submit a short reflection (written or video) about their experience. 

• Applications must be received by 15 July 2026.

Address:

Japanese American Veterans Association (JAVA) Scholarship

The JAVA Scholarship Programs can be found here:  https://java-us.org/JAVA-Memorial-Scholarship-Program 

Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) Scholarship

The JACL has been helping students achieve their educational dreams with the National Scholarship and Awards Program since 1946. The program currently offers over 30 awards, with an annual total of over $70,000 in scholarships to qualified students nationwide.  Click on "Youth" and "Scholarships" on the following link for more information.

https://jacl.org/scholarships