The F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College has named James Barabe, M ‘08, winner of the 2007-2008 William G. McGowan Scholarship. 

Babson’s William G. McGowan Scholar applicants must maintain a 3.0 grade point average and submit an essay. McGowan scholar candidates must demonstrate leadership ability, interpersonal skills, and involvement in academic, campus, and community activities. The award also recognizes intellectual curiosity, and a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial potential.

Barabe is a first-year student in the Two-year MBA program. “Jim is a deserving recipient of this award. His leadership has great impact on the Babson community. He has a solid record of academic achievement, a spirit of curiosity, and a commitment to community building,” said Karen Maccaro, chair of the selection committee. “In a strong pool of candidates, the Committee believed he rose to the top as an exemplary embodiment of the characteristics the McGowan Foundation seeks to recognize and reward.”

 “I came to Babson to change careers,” said Barabe. “I love the science of wildlife and fisheries biology, but now I’m learning about business and how to become an entrepreneur. Looking ahead, I may work with a fellow Babson MBA alumnus who has started on on-line caviar business and is pursuing other opportunities in aquaculture systems. “

Barabe earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in wildlife biology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He lives in Upton, Mass. with his wife Robyn.

The William G. McGowan Scholars Program provides selected colleges and universities funding for scholarships to outstanding students enrolled in accredited business schools.  The purpose is to increase awareness of the contribution made by William G. McGowan, founder and Chairman of MCI Communications Corporation, to the fields of business, telecommunications, and entrepreneurship.