Honor the legacy of Karim, while supporting current and future UMD students

About Karim

As a friend, student and community member, Karim C. Kambo Jr. made a significant impact in just a brief period of time.

After graduating from Fairmont High School as the Class of 2016 salutatorian, Karim enrolled at the University of Maryland.  He was selected as a full-tuition scholar in the 16th cohort of the Incentive Awards Program (IAP) and was a community health major within the School of Public Health. 

As a leader who consistently focused on the welfare of others, Karim worked for institutions including but not limited to the Maryland National-Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (MNCPPC) Inclusion Services. There, he supervised and cared for kids with physical, mental, emotional, and intellectual disabilities. 

Karim had a passion for business and entrepreneurship. Within the Honors College, Karim was a member of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program (EIP), whose mission is to foster an entrepreneurial spirit, create a sense of community and cooperation, and develop ethical and innovative leaders.

Karim's Cameroonian and Ivorian heritage allowed him to remain open-minded to the intricacies of different cultures. As an active member of the African Student Association's modeling team, he helped runway different clothing lines and events inspired by West African culture. Karim also attended a study abroad program in Argentina intended to provide cultural and professional development activities such as homestays with Argentinian families and workshops on intercultural communications.

In June 2020, we tragically and unexpectedly lost Karim to gun violence. Karim was the only son of four children. He left behind his family, close friends, and other loved ones. 

Help us make sure that Karim’s name and legacy will live on by making a gift to the C.D. Mote, Jr. Incentive Awards Program (IAP) today.  IAP was an important part of Karim’s education, and we want to give other IAP students the same support.  Your gift will help cover the cost of books for IAP students!

About IAP

The C.D. Mote, Jr. Incentive Awards Program (IAP) is designed for exceptional students who demonstrate academic ability, uncommon persistence, and maturity despite very difficult circumstances. Through full scholarships and wraparound services, Baltimore City, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County high school students with significant financial need can attend and thrive at the University of Maryland.

Gifts in support of the University of Maryland are accepted and managed by the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, Inc., an affiliated 501(c)(3) organization authorized by the Board of Regents.  Contributions to the University of Maryland are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Please see your tax advisor for details.