THE james e. shepherd
memorial SCHOLARSHIP FUND

This Scholarship in memory of James Shepherd pays tribute to a man who was a devoted husband, father and grandfather; he was also a brilliant engineer, a passionate educator, and a person dedicated to community service. He completed his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering, physics and math before earning his doctorate in engineering at Harvard University.  While studying for his doctorate, Dr. Shepherd was an instructor of physics and communication engineering at that institution.  Following graduation he joined Sperry Rand where he worked on radar development and later, as head of their new research center, oversaw the work of 150 engineers.  Dr. Shepherd held no fewer than 17 patents for his work on radar and electronic systems. 

Dedicated to his family, he shared his love of travel, tennis, photography and chess with his wife, children and grandchildren. After retiring in 1972, Dr. Shepherd was also able to pursue his passion for teaching.  Not only was he a computer science instructor for the Concord-Carlisle adult education program, but he also volunteered many hours as a consultant, teacher of teachers, and tutor at Concord-Carlisle High School (CCHS).  His counsel, initiative and instruction were instrumental in helping the high school develop its early computer programs and to equip its new computer labs. 

As a result of his significant contributions to the community, Dr. Shepherd was named Concord’s Honored Citizen of 1988, an honor he shared with his wife, Annabelle, who was also recognized for her years of service to the Town of Concord.