By Shelby Brown–

Students will be able to apply for a scholarship in memory of Cardinal writer Ryan Considine a year early.

The 2017 Ryan M. Considine Scholarship is for students pursuing a career in journalism and interested in writing about music, one of Ryan’s passions. Considine was a Cardinal writer who died July 10, weeks before his graduation. His diploma was awarded posthumously.

“My husband, Bob, and my son, Colin, and I were humbled and amazed at the generosity of the university when we recently learned that the scholarship would be awarded this spring, ahead of schedule,” Ryan’s mother, Mary Considine said.

Initially, the scholarship was set for the 2018-2019 year with a $10,000 donation from Considine’s family. Communication Department Chair Al Futrell proposed the department supplement the family’s funds during a faculty meeting so the $500 scholarship could be awarded this year.

“The Department of Communication whole-heartedly embraced this initiative, as Ryan was one of the department’s finest journalism students,” communication professor Nick Paliewicz said.

Paliewicz serves on U of L’s scholarship committee.

“It is clear that he touched many people’s lives,” Paliewicz said. “He is surely missed by fellow students and colleagues and faculty. It is clear that Ryan left an impression on the department, and we are so happy to commemorate him with this scholarship which, we hope, will serve as a living memory of Ryan and the inspiration he provided so many.”

Students must apply by April 7 at noon. Those interested should submit a cover letter, writing sample and resume. The website is being constructed and flyers will be posted on campus soon.

“Although our hearts are broken, his legacy will live on through the scholarship in his name,” Mary Considine said.

Ryan’s coursework focused on journalism,  frequently writing his byline in the Cardinal and covering topics for the news, features and opinion sections. Additionally, he was a founding member of U of L’s student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

Photo provided by family.