Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship

Funder: United States-Japan Bridging Foundation (jointly with American Chamber of Commerce in Japan)

The Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship was established to honor Bill Bishop, his wife Izumi, and their daughter Sophianna, who were killed on Christmas morning 2022. The scholarship provides opportunities to U.S. undergraduates—who would otherwise be unable—to study abroad in Japan at Temple University, Japan Campus, where Bill Bishop was a lecturer and board member.

Fund Status

• Funds raised to date: $48,860
• Goal: Sponsor one student per year for at least 10 years
• First recipient: Student departed September 2023

Award Details

• Provides study abroad opportunities and internship placements in Japan
• Students study at Temple University, Japan Campus
• Includes five-month internship placements (e.g., with American Chamber of Commerce in Japan)
• Access to extensive mentorship and networking opportunities

Eligibility

• Citizenship: U.S. citizens
• Education level: Undergraduate students
• Financial need: Priority for students who would otherwise be unable to study abroad
• Academic quality and leadership potential: Demonstrated commitment to U.S.-Japan bilateral relationship

Program Focus

• Cultural and educational exchange
• Building the U.S.-Japan bilateral relationship
• Professional development and career advancement
• Business and cross-cultural understanding

What They Fund

• Study abroad programs in Japan
• Internship placements
• Mentorship and professional development
• Networking events and career opportunities

About the Bishops

William 'Bill' Bishop: Spent 40+ years living and working in Japan in the pharmaceutical industry. Arrived in Tokyo in 1974 as a student at Sophia University. Earned M.A. from Temple University where he later taught and served on Board of Overseers. Held positions at Eli Lilly, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, and Becton Dickinson. Served as trade representative for the state of Indiana. Established Bill Bishop & Associates consulting firm. Known for humor, friendly personality, and bridging cultural differences.

Izumi Morita Bishop: Wife of Bill Bishop. Met at Sophia University. Regular supporter of American Chamber of Commerce in Japan Charity Ball. Dedicated to family and community.

Sophianna Morita Bishop: Daughter of Bill and Izumi. Creative specialist and associate strategy director at Ogilvy Japan. Rising star in the company with significant talent and intellect.

Contact Information

Website: bridgingfoundation.org

Donation Page: Dedicated page for Bishop Family Memorial Scholarship Fund contributions