Please fill out the application and submit your unofficial transcript, personal essay, photo, and media release form. If you experience any issues with this form please e-mail scholarsship@iamkeptfoundationinc.org prior to the submission deadline.

 Who we are: The I Am Kept Foundation, Inc.., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2020 to honor the memory of Graham E. Hayes, II. His life was tragically taken on September 16, 2011. He left behind his wife and three children who were in the 12th grade, 10th grad, and 7th grade. Mr. Hayes was passionate about being educated and knowledgeable.

Our Purpose: Understanding the journey of dealing with and coping with life after the tragic loss of a loved one, the Hayes family aims to help other affected by the loss of a parent due to death by providing scholarships and support to students seeking higher education.

Qualifications: Must be a high school senior attending college in the fall or a current college student who experienced the death of a parent or guardian.

• Complete the application and submit all required parts by the stated deadline.

• Submit copies of your unofficial transcript(s) (please note that all scholarship recipients will be required to submit an official transcript upon notice of award).

• Submit required personal statements.

• Submit a professional headshot photograph of the scholarship applicant.

• Signed Media Release Form.

DEADLINE: August 1, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. EST​ 

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Personal Statement Requirements

• There are two Essays. Please complete and upload both essays. Applications with only one essay response will not be considered.

• No more than 500 words per Essay

• Essays should be typed, and double spaced.