Jenice Riley Memorial Scholarship

This competitive $2,000 scholarship is awarded to Alabama K-8 educators in support of history- and civics-related projects in their schools and classrooms. The award aids teachers in attending a conference, purchasing classroom materials, or creating programs that enhance students’ understanding of history and civics.

The Alabama Humanities Alliance awards the Jenice Riley Memorial Scholarship annually. Since 2003, we’ve named 106 Riley Scholars and awarded more than $100,000 in teacher scholarships.

2025 proposal theme

“RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN HISTORY”

All Riley Scholarship proposals must address how funds will be used to enhance teaching and learning about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Note: This is also the theme of AHA’s 2025 Alabama History Day competition! 

Who is eligible?

The scholarship competition is open to current Alabama educators of grades K-8, in public and private Alabama schools. Teachers must be current educators in the K-8 classroom who seek to enhance the classroom experience or expand their professional development in the areas of history and civics (this includes geography and Alabama geography, Alabama history, world history, U.S. history, and civics).

About Jenice Riley

Created in 2003 in memory of Jenice Riley, the scholarship recognizes educators who share her extraordinary commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Alabama. Jenice was the daughter of former Alabama governor and first lady Bob and Patsy Riley; she had a passion for teaching, and fostered creativity and a desire to learn within her students.