RADFORD – The late Rita Sizemore Riddle has long been considered one of Radford University students’ favorite teachers. She was not only an English professor but a friend and mentor, rightfully earning the nickname Dr. Mama. Recently, three RU students became the first recipients of the Rita Riddle Creative Writing Scholarship, a distinction that will carry on her legacy of life-long learning through life-long experiences.

Scholarships were awarded to sophomore Michael N. Turner of Radford for the short story Acts of God, and graduate student Kathryn Bondurant of Radford for her poetry collection Remnants. Senior Liesel Eby of Winchester was named an alternate winner for Of Two Minds. Each received a scholarship valued at more than $600 to be used for studies at the Appalachian Writers Workshop at Hindman Settlement School in Hindman, Ky. Since 1902, the school has played a pivotal role in promoting literary and the cultural heritage of southeastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia.

Monies for the scholarships were raised by the sale of Riddle’s final book and money donated by Appalachian Regional Studies Center director Grace Toney Edwards. Judges were Ohio poet and Southern Appalachian Writers Cooperative (SAWC) member Ron Houchin, RU English professor Theresa Burriss and RU English instructor and SAWC member Jim Minick.