Making an Impact: Craig P. Hutchinson Scholarship

When the Independent Karate School became the Independent Martial Arts School, the name of the scholarship foundation also had to change.  Previously the Independent Karate School Scholarship Foundation, the name is now the Craig P. Hutchinson Memorial Scholarship Foundation.

The legacy of the Independent Karate School and the Independent Martial Arts School is NOT one of “teaching karate.”  It is one of giving students the opportunity for personal growth, using the teaching of karate as a vehicle.  In any given class, one can see the on-the-surface focus of various lessons in Kenpo and Enshudo.  But in aggregate, the instructors’ ultimate goal is to instill virtue, character, and personal strength.

There is also the legacy of helping students reach their potential—and this is one of the main goals of the scholarship.  The Foundation works in tandem with the school to award black belts who embody the ideals held most dear to the IMAS, and to assist them in achieving their life goals outside of the dojo.  Over the 28 years of its existence, the Foundation has awarded over $125,000 in scholarship funds to IKS/IMAS black belts, with the goal of helping those who have proven to be model karate students realize their academic goals.

Here are a couple of testimonials from previous Scholarship recipients, indicating what the Scholarship has meant to them.

“The Independent Martial Arts School not only supported me as I went off to college, but also helped me to develop the skills and confidence that I needed as a young martial artist during my childhood. I am extremely grateful to all of the instructors and community for the opportunities they have provided to me over the years, including receiving the Craig Hutchinson Memorial Scholarship. The award enabled me to seek an education, and I’m so thankful for that! I hope future students can continue to feel supported through this scholarship and our community in the same way that I have throughout my life.”

~Nikhil Karnane

“I was beyond honored to receive the scholarship. With the help of the scholarship, I was able to complete nursing school to get my LPN. Without that help, I may not have been able to continue on to get my RN. That truly changed my life for the better.”

~Angela Crowell

At the time I received the Scholarship in 1999, it helped me pay for some college textbooks and room & board expenses.  Over time, however, the Scholarship helped reaffirm my admiration for, and connection with this organization.  It demonstrated their commitment to the education of its members, and proved how education is the most important weapon one can have in life.  Yes, the Scholarship provides money, but it provides so much more in the long run.  I hope future generations will benefit from it just as I have been able to.

~Shihan Jeff Maistrosky

Every one of these black belts has taken a journey of their own in their education, and subsequently their careers.  No matter the path, the Craig P. Hutchinson Scholarship has made an impact on its recipients, and our goal is to continue offering this opportunity to those who seek it.

Now until July 20, The River is awarding its proceeds toward the Craig P. Hutchinson Scholarship, and you offer your support by visiting for an evening of fun if you’re of age to do so.  If you’d like to learn more about our scholarship and how you can contribute, please visit here for more information.