Leaving A Legacy: The New Ann M. Rice '79 Memorial Scholarship for Women's Tennis

RADFORD, Va. -- Radford Athletics and the Department of University Advancement are proud to announce the establishment of a new scholarship, the Ann M. Rice '79 Memorial Scholarship for Women's Tennis.

Ann M. Rice was a beloved member of the women's tennis team, as well as the women's basketball team, during her time at Radford College. She was a part of the first wave of women competing in collegiate athletics following the passing of Title IX and a prime example of the benefits of sport on the lives of women.

Her peer, Tom Lillard '79, Radford Athletics Hall of Fame men's soccer player and the Associate Vice President for University Advancement, described her as a "well-respected and very kind two-sport athlete".

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work and spent her 31-year career as a social worker for Fairfax County Public Schools.

In a statement, Rice's family said, "Endowing a scholarship for our sister, Ann, is a fitting way to honor and remember her. Ann was a lifelong tennis player and shared her love of the sport with family and friends. Her time at Radford laid the foundation for her meaningful career in social work and as an advocate of women's sports".

Established by contributions from Ann's siblings, the scholarship will be gifted to a member of the women's tennis team in good academic standing, preferably studying social work.

"We are so appreciative of Ann's family because their gift will help us in recruiting future Highlander women's tennis players," said Director of Tennis, Rob Bareford. "With this gift, they have created an opportunity for future student-athletes to obtain their degree from Radford, while making memories that will last a lifetime."

Ann, one of seven siblings, shared her love of Radford University with her sister, Patricia Rice Hunter '85, and two nieces, Patricia's daughters Elizabeth Hunter '16 and Abigail Hunter '20. Ann passed away on January 11, 2020.

To contribute to the scholarship, please contact Penny White at 540-831-5344 or pwhite@radford.edu.

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