Memorial Scholarship

The Evan T. Bolton Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Evan Bolton, Kara’s funny, playful stepson, who passed away unexpectedly in March 2017 at the age of 13. Evan grew up in Gainesville, Florida, and was known for his bright spirit and sense of humor that brought laughter to those around him.

Evan had a deep love for the water—especially the ocean. His happiest days were spent at the beach riding waves, kite-surfing, boogie boarding, or skimming alongside his dad. On weekends, he often slept in a hammock aboard the family sailboat, lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the sea. The water was where Evan felt most free.

The scholarship supports students at the M.E. Rinker, Sr. School of Construction Management, part of the University of Florida. In honor of Evan’s adventurous spirit, applicants are invited to include a short reflection on their own connection to the water and love of adventure as part of the application process.

Kara has chosen to honor Evan’s memory by pledging $100 for every Kara Bolton Home sold since his passing, with annual contributions made to the Rinker School on the company’s anniversary. To date, Kara Bolton Homes has pledged more than $13,000 to the scholarship fund.

This scholarship serves as a personal reminder that we work to live—not the other way around—and that quality of life matters. Through Evan’s legacy, future builders are encouraged to pursue meaningful careers while holding onto joy, laughter, and a sense of playfulness—the qualities Evan brought into every space he entered.