Michael Rich Scholarship Foundation
Coach Michael Rich dedicated his life to mentoring and empowering student-athletes. Through this foundation, we carry his legacy forward by providing scholarships that honor his commitment to education, athletics, and community.
Transforming Lives, Building Legacies
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Scholarship
Legacy
Legacy in Motion
3-on-3 Basketball Tournament Event
Fundraiser Recap
The Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship Foundation proudly hosted our first annual 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, bringing the community together for a day of fun, teamwork, and purpose.
This year’s champions were Hope at Liberty’s 3-on-3 Volunteer Team, who showed incredible sportsmanship and spirit throughout the event.
A special thank you goes out to our amazing sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible. Your support helps us continue our mission to uplift youth through scholarship, mentorship, and community engagement.
Check out our photo gallery below to relive some of the best moments from the tournament!
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Our 2025 Scholarship Recipient
Cheyenne Walker
Fayetteville State University
Track and Field, Nursing
We are proud to announce our first annual Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship recipient
Cheyenne is a freshman at Fayetteville State University majoring in Nursing. She is a student-athlete on the track team. She stated,
"I am applying for the Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship because it would make a big difference in helping me continue my education."
Cheyenne represents the heart of what this scholarship stands for: leadership,
perseverance, and a commitment to education. During our presentation ceremony, we were joined by the Mayor and community leaders to celebrate her achievement and the lasting legacy of Michael Rich.
Let's change lives Together
Donate Today!
Michael Rich
Scholarship Foundation
Transforming Lives, Building Legacies
Application Window
Applications for the next Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship open November 1st.
Students are encouraged to apply and continue the mission of excellence and service that Michael Rich embodied.
Check back here for the application link and eligibility details.
Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision
The Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship Foundation envisions a future where every female athlete thrives academically, athletically, and personally. Inspired by Coach Michael Rich’s unwavering dedication to excellence and mentorship, we aim to create opportunities that empower student-athletes to achieve greatness both on and off the court, leaving a legacy of resilience, leadership, and success.
Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure that student-athletes have the resources they need to excel academically and athletically, fostering a culture of empowerment, perseverance, and community impact. Through this scholarship, we continue Coach Rich’s tradition of inspiring lives and shaping futures.
The Legacy of Coach Michael Rich
Coach Michael Rich was a cornerstone of Fayetteville State University’s athletic and academic community. As a coach of the women’s basketball program from 1993 to 2009, he led his teams with passion, discipline, and a deep commitment to their growth as athletes and individuals. Beyond the court, Coach Rich served as a trusted student advisor from 1996 until his passing in 2022, guiding countless students toward achieving their dreams. An alumnus of Hampton University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and a proud graduate of Fayetteville State University’s master’s program, Coach Rich exemplified the values of education, mentorship, and excellence. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the victories he championed, and the countless young women he inspired to reach their full potential.
Our Why
The Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship Foundation was established to honor the extraordinary life and impact of Coach Rich. His dedication to fostering academic achievement and athletic excellence among female student-athletes was unparalleled. This foundation seeks to continue his mission by providing financial assistance to help female athletes at Fayetteville State University excel in their academic pursuits while thriving in sports. Through this scholarship, we aim to uphold Coach Rich’s belief that education and athletics are powerful tools for shaping resilient, confident, and successful leaders. By supporting these young women, we celebrate Coach Rich’s legacy and ensure that his passion for empowerment continues to inspire future generations.
Women Sports News
FSU Women's Back to Back CIAA Champs
On behalf of the Michael Rich Memorial Scholarship Program, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Fayetteville State University Women's Basketball Team for making history as back-to-back CIAA Champions! Your dedication, teamwork, and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire us all. As proud supporters of Bronco women in sports, we celebrate this incredible achievement and look forward to your continued legacy of greatness. Keep shining, champions!
