by Emily Hunsaker

CARBONDALE, Ill. –The Larry Reynolds Memorial Scholarship is open to new and returning students studying music at SIU Carbondale. Preference will be given to graduates of Herrin High School who are incoming freshmen or current students. If no Herrin High School graduates are available, preference will be given to transfer students from John A. Logan College. The scholarship will be awarded annually.

“Mr. Reynolds was a very important part of the School of Music’s staff. The impact he made during his many years of service is immeasurable,” Jeanine Wagner, director of the School of Music, said. “He touched the lives of many students through his work and his involvement in extracurricular activities.”

Reynolds was a beloved employee who was held in high regard in the School of Music. An avid musician himself, he sponsored music fraternities and made regular appearances in student jam sessions. His wife, Judy, and children, Paul and Julie, hope that through this scholarship he will be remembered for his commitment to music and education.

“We wanted to establish this scholarship so Larry could live on in the School of Music,” Judy Reynolds said. “He was very involved with the students in the school, and was also very talented. He could play a little on any instrument. But he loved to play the banjo.”

With the family’s strong ties to SIU Carbondale and southern Illinois, Reynolds wanted the scholarship to benefit local students.

“Our children graduated from Herrin High School, John A. Logan and SIU Carbondale,” Reynolds said. “We decided on the scholarship stipulations based on these connections.”

Paul Reynolds is a 1997 engineering graduate. Julie (Reynolds) Patrick earned her degree from the College of Education and Human Services in 2001.

“Mr. Reynolds and his family clearly treasured their time at SIU Carbondale. Through this endowment, his family strengthens his legacy,” Jeff Lorber, associate vice chancellor for institutional advancement and executive director of development for the SIU Foundation, said. “By establishing this scholarship fund, the Reynolds family is investing in the future of our area students.”