‍ Ryan’s House Child Advocacy Center is honored to announce the launch of the First Annual Ryan Luke Memorial Scholarships, created to support Oklahoma students who are dedicated to protecting children and pursuing justice for victims of abuse. Two scholarships will be awarded in 2026:

• $500 Scholarship for a graduating Oklahoma high school senior

• $1,000 Scholarship for an Oklahoma resident who has completed their freshman year of college

Purpose of the Scholarship

The Ryan Luke Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Ryan Luke, a beloved child from McAlester, Oklahoma, whose tragic death in 1995 ignited a statewide movement for stronger child protection laws and ultimately inspired the founding of Ryan’s House Child Advocacy Center.

This scholarship is dedicated to students who share Ryan’s House’s mission: protecting children, advocating for victims, and strengthening the systems that safeguard our communities. By investing in future professionals in criminal justice, social services, and child advocacy, we strive to build a safer world for children and ensure that Ryan’s story continues to inspire meaningful change.

Eligibility Requirements

Scholarship A — High School Senior ($500)

Applicants must:

• Be a graduating high school senior

• Reside in Oklahoma

• Plan to pursue a degree in:

  • Criminal Justice

  • Social Work

  • Psychology

  • Forensic Science

  • Law Enforcement

  • Any field directly related to child abuse investigations or child advocacy

• Demonstrate a commitment to child protection and justice through academics, volunteer work, or personal experience

Scholarship B — College Student ($1,000)

Applicants must:

• Have completed their freshman year of college

• Reside in Oklahoma

• Plan to pursue a degree in:

  • Criminal Justice

  • Social Work

  • Psychology

  • Forensic Science

  • Law Enforcement

  • Any field directly related to child abuse investigations or child advocacy

• Demonstrate a commitment to child protection and justice through academics, volunteer work, or personal experience

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit the following materials:

Completed Application Form on https://forms.gle/D9CamDApX3AqkntU9

Personal Essay (500–750 words) Topic: “Why I want to pursue a career in criminal justice or child advocacy, and how Ryan Luke’s story inspires me.”

High School Transcript Must show GPA and graduation status.

Three Letters of Recommendation From a teacher, counselor, mentor, or other professional who can speak to the applicant’s character and commitment to justice.

Proof of College Enrollment or Acceptance Must be for a program related to one of the eligible fields listed above.

‍ Deadline

‍ All application materials must be submitted by May 1, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

‍ Selection & Notification ‍

A committee of Ryan’s House staff and community advocates will review all applications. The scholarship recipients will be notified by May 15, 2026.

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