WEST STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Cameron Ryan Black of West Stockbridge was awarded a $1,150 scholarship from The Jamie Fund, a fund of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation named in memory of Stockbridge resident and gifted musician Jamie Bugley.

Black, who recently  from Monument Mountain Regional High School in June, will attend the University of New Haven this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in music and sound recording.

Black was selected from a field of eight applicants for his academic achievement and leadership in the classroom, as well as his independent initiative to produce music outside of school. He aspires to be a music producer, performer or professional disc jockey, with the specific goal of using music to express, and even solve, societal and global issues.

“As long as I’m working with music I will be happy,” Black wrote in his application. “I want my music to have a positive impact on the world.”

The Jamie Fund, which supports one graduating high school senior of Berkshire County each year who is interested in studying music or the vocational arts at an accredited educational institution, celebrates the life of James Bugley, an accomplished percussionist and vocalist who performed at venues throughout Berkshire County and in New York and Connecticut. Jamie, who died suddenly in 2010, was known for his exceptional work ethic, perfectionist attitude and warm sense of humor. These qualities live on in Cameron Black, as well as Anthony Sears of Pittsfield and Justin Geyer of Dalton, the first two Jamie Fund recipients.

“Cam has been a quiet and influential leader in our classrooms,” Principal Marianne R. Young wrote in a letter of recommendation. “He is inquisitive and funny, sincere and well-liked. He is passionate about music and philosophy, intrigued by big questions and big ideas. He is a learner.”

To learn more about The Jamie Fund, visit www.berkshiretaconic.org or call 413-229-0370.

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