The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) deeply mourns the heartbreaking loss of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, a bright and kind-hearted young leader whose life was tragically and senselessly cut short on July 1, 2025, when he was struck by a stray bullet in a fatal shooting in Washington, D.C. Eric was a participant in the TFAS Spring Washington Fellowship from January to April and was interning on Capitol Hill in the office of Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS) at the time of his passing.
A rising senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Eric was studying finance and political science. On campus, he actively engaged with his peers and pursued his academic passions through involvement in the Finance Society, Investment Club, Investment Banking Club and Ski Club. His intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm were evident to all who knew him.
Eric embodied the qualities of a courageous leader who was making a meaningful impact on his community. He was kind, gentle, soft-spoken and intelligent. He was developing a real passion for public policy and public service, fueled by both his academic studies and the TFAS seminars.
Abby McGovern, program manager for the spring TFAS Washington Fellowship, recalled the impression Eric left on those around him.
“It was an honor to get to know Eric during the Washington Fellowship,” McGovern said. “Through our interactions, I learned that Eric was exactly the type of student and leader that TFAS hopes to develop. He was kind, thoughtful and had a quiet confidence that left an impact on all of us.”
Clark Burg, a close friend and TFAS classmate of Eric’s, remembers him as someone you could always count on. Whether for advice, a companion for an errand or just someone to talk to, Eric was there; generous with his time, kindness and heart.
“If you could have any friend, you would always want him as a friend,” Burg said.
Eric spoke often and fondly of his time in Washington, D.C., where he returned to intern with Rep. Ron Estes this summer. He found meaning in how representatives and senators shape the lives of everyday people. That experience only deepened his commitment to making a difference.
Eric was incredibly focused, not just on his career, but on the future he dreamed of building. He often spoke about setting up a good life, one rooted in love and stability, for the family he hoped to have someday.
Colton Schmaderer, a friend, classmate and roommate of Eric’s, recalled when they were first paired as roommates as a moment that marked the beginning of a close and lasting friendship.
Schmaderer said living with Eric left a lasting impact, turning what could have been an ordinary semester into something unforgettable.
“Eric was the best roommate I’ve ever had,” Schmaderer said. “I couldn’t have experienced the program with anyone else. Because of him, I went to the zoo, the U.S. Botanic Garden and the White House Garden Tour back in April. He made my TFAS experience.”
Malcolm Mahoney, a close friend since high school and 2023 TFAS D.C. summer program alumnus, remembers Eric for his kind heart, sharp sense of humor and his unwavering dedication. Mahoney says Eric had a rare gift of lighting up a room; he could make you laugh even on your worst days.
Even back in high school, Mahoney says Eric had a clear sense of purpose and knew exactly what he wanted to pursue. His determination and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
“He was really there for you,” Mahoney said. “Even if weeks had passed, he’d reach out just to check in. He made the effort to stay connected, always asking when he could meet up again, always making sure everyone was doing OK.”
In honor of Eric’s life and the values he embodied, Eric’s family and TFAS are establishing a scholarship in his memory. The Eric Tarpinian-Jachym Memorial Scholarship will support future undergraduate students to attend TFAS programs in Washington, D.C.
Through this scholarship, Eric’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower future students who seek to become honorable leaders and impact the world around them.
Honor Eric’s legacy at TFAS.org/Eric.