2024 News 2024: UMass Dartmouth awards inaugural Tamotsu Yamamoto Scholarship

Heather Cachia awarded $10,500 in recognition of her commitment to interior architecture + design

UMass Dartmouth recently awarded the first-ever Tamotsu Yamamoto Scholarship to Heather Cachia '26, an interior architecture + design (IAD) student, marking a significant milestone for the program. Cachia received $10,500 in recognition of her commitment to the major through her involvement in clubs, internships, and academic achievement.

"I am incredibly honored and grateful to be chosen as a recipient of the Tamotsu Yamamoto Scholarship," said Cachia. "This scholarship is not only a financial blessing, but also a powerful attribution in pursuing my education in interior architecture and design. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my studies and to one day make a meaningful impact in the field."

"This scholarship is not only a financial blessing, but also a powerful attribution in pursuing my education in interior architecture and design. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my studies and to one day make a meaningful impact in the field."

The scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Professor Tamotsu "Tommy" Yamamoto, a former faculty member at Mount Ida College whose work significantly influenced the architectural community. After Mount Ida closed in 2018, UMass Dartmouth welcomed IAD faculty, students, and Yamamoto’s commitment to fostering creative talent. 

The scholarship, which has grown to over $500,000 since its establishment in 1999, will now provide annual support to interior architecture + design students, enabling them to further their education and creative pursuits. Cachia's selection as the award's inaugural recipient is a testament to her strong potential in the field.

"I would like to acknowledge the support of my professors and peers, who have shaped my educational experience," said Cachia. "Their guidance, encouragement, and collaboration inspire me every day to push my creative boundaries and work towards success. Their generosity has made a significant difference in my academic journey, and I am committed to paying it forward in the future. Thank you for supporting my goals."

Yamamoto, renowned for his architectural renderings and diverse artwork, is being celebrated through a curated exhibition of his work at the CVPA Gallery from October 1 through November 23. The exhibit features a collection of his architectural renderings in watercolor gouache, pen and ink, airbrush, colored pencil, markers, and other media, offering the UMass Dartmouth community a glimpse into the career and contributions of a man whose passion for design has left a lasting impact.

"Seeing the scholarship come to life and knowing that it will help students for years to come has been an incredibly rewarding experience," said Associate Professor and Program Coordinator Rose Mary Botti-Salitsky. "I worked with Tommy for 25 years. He was an exceptional educator who deeply cared about his students and their success. The legacy scholarship exhibits his passion to his students and future generations."

Applying for the Yamamoto Scholarship

The Yamamoto Scholarship provides financial assistance to one full-time undergraduate student enrolled in at least 12 credits per semester, studying in the field or major of interior design with demonstrated financial need. The recipient should show their commitment to their major through involvement in clubs, internships, and other related activities.

A recommendation letter from an interior architecture + design program faculty member is required. To be considered for this scholarship, you must complete the 2025/26 UMassD General Scholarship Application, file your FAFSA by April 1, and complete verification, if applicable.

See more scholarships at UMass Dartmouth.