Providing Talented Black Students with Financial Support for Study Abroad Experiences
The Keller Study Abroad Scholarship is open to all Black UVA students who qualify. Scholars are eligible to receive a one-time grant to supplement an approved study abroad experience. Multiple recipients may be named, with awards ranging up to $5,000 based on need and study abroad program costs. This scholarship is available for students studying abroad in the spring, summer, and fall.
For general information about study abroad, and to identify and apply for a study abroad program, please visit UVA’s Education Abroad website or contact the International Studies Office at studyabroad@virginia.edu or (434) 982-3010.
Incremental Costs Deter Black Student Study Abroad Experiences
Both nationally and at UVA, Black students are greatly underrepresented in study abroad programs. One of the largest reasons behind this lower participation is the additional financial cost of these programs (international airfare, passport/visa fees, international cell phone plan, etc.) Ensuring that Black students have access to a life-changing study abroad experience is a core University mission, and the Keller family is honored that Ricky’s legacy financially supports the global learning and exchange of ideas that lead to a more engaging and meaningful education for Black students at UVA.
About Ricky Keller
Ricky was a Lawn Resident and a 1985 Honors graduate of the College, where he was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., the IMP Society, the University Guide Service and the Board of Trustees for the Class of 1985. Upon his passing, it became known that he was also a member of the Seven Society.
Ricky participated in the First Years Seminars program and received the First Year Academic Achievement Award, the Afro-American Scholars Award, the Fraternity Leadership Achievement Award, and the John Kenneth Crispell Memorial Award.
Importantly, Ricky participated in a study abroad program at the London School of Economics. In his farewell letter to family and friends, Ricky noted his study abroad experience as one of the highlights of his time at UVA.