Former professor inspires new scholarship

By: Stacy Smith/Activities reporter

Posted: 9/22/05

Martin Scott of the English department was found dead in late spring 2005.

Scott's death was ruled a suicide by overdosing on over-the-counter medicine. He was much loved in the English department and the community.

On Sunday, a scholarship fundraiser in his honor was held at Roc's Blackfront Tavern.

"Marty loved his students and loved his teaching so much," said Judy Duffield, Scott's mother, "he was just in a rough situation."

The room was donated by Roc's for the event because Scott had played with his band there for other fundraisers.

Approximately 100 of Scott's friends, as well as former students and colleagues, attended the fundraiser, said Angela Vietto, assistant English professor.

"We wanted to come together to help raise money for the scholarship fund because Marty Scott was a dedicated teacher, and we wanted to help make a positive legacy out of his tragic death," Vietto said. "It was very good to see that many friends come together for a good cause," she added.

Vietto asked Scott's musical friends to perform at the event.

Performers included local blues singer Reverend Robert, Jenny Keefe, Grits 'n' Hominy, Chris Hanlon, Andrew Lenahan, Eric Hake; Rachel Vaughn with special guest Bob Zordanl, Ryan Groff, and the Mudshow alumni Scott Lutz and Brianne Bolin. Stephen Swords also played, and Brent Byrd provided sound.

Items such as artwork, books, jewelry, plants and services from local businesses were available at the silent auction, which also took place to help fund the scholarship.

Over $700 was raised at the door- a $5 donation was requested- and the money raised from the silent auction has not been totaled yet, Vietto said.

Approiximately $1500 was collected from a viewing at the memorial service, said Duffield.

All the money will be donated to the scholarship fund, but scholarship is an endowment; meaning the money goes into the EIU Foundations' account and after the money has been raised, interest is used to make the actual scholarship awards.

This way the scholarship can be awarded every year without having to constantly raise money every year, Vietto said.

"The scholarship is not completely settled yet," Duffield said. "I want the scholarship to be directed to what he taught: non-fictional creative writing."

"Hopefully, we can get some funds and build up interest soon so students who knew Marty have the chance to get it, instead of five years from now," Duffield said.