Ally Davis arrived at Northern Kentucky University in fall 2017 with a heart full of ambition and a deep passion for musical theatre. Pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts Performance with a musical theatre focus and a minor in dance, Ally quickly became a cherished member of the School of the Arts (SOTA) community. Her professors, peers and the wider campus all took note of her talent, her work ethic and the warmth she so generously shared.

Although her life ended far too soon, her spirit and influence have endured through the memories of those who knew her and the legacy that now carries her name. Five years after her passing, Ally is remembered not just for her performances but for the way she lifted others up, led with empathy and truly found her place at NKU.

"'And though she be but little, she is fierce.' One of Ally's closest friends quoted this line from A Midsummer Night's Dream to describe her," says her parents, Barry and Betty Davis. "Ally was little but fierce from the day she was born. Her heart was kind, and she loved being a support to younger or novice members of any production in which she was cast. We know that she would be incredibly happy with how her scholarships will support NKU students enrolled in SOTA in the years to come."

That support is now a lasting reality. In her memory, loved ones established two scholarship funds to help future NKU students pursue their artistic dreams. The Ally Davis Memorial Scholarship provides a full-tuition award to students in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program, with preference given to those majoring in musical theatre or who call eastern Kentucky home—just like Ally did. This scholarship also takes into account community involvement, academic achievement and a student's personal story—making it deeply personal and representative of Ally’s own journey.

The second fund, the Ally Davis Memorial Student Support Fund, was created to address another common challenge faced by students: unexpected financial hardship. This fund offers flexible financial assistance to undergraduate students in SOTA. Its purpose is to keep students on track toward graduation, even when challenges arise.

For those who knew her, these scholarships feel like a natural extension of her character. Ally was known for mentoring younger students, encouraging others with quiet strength and bringing joy and kindness to every space she entered. Now, through the scholarships in her name, she continues to play a vital role in the lives of students who may never have known her, but who will benefit from her legacy.

"The Ally Davis Memorial Scholarship will ensure that Ally's vibrant spirit and passion for musical theatre continue to inspire future generations of NKU students. Through this fund, her artistry, friendship and empathy will forever resonate on campus, empowering aspiring performers to pursue their dreams," says Jamey Strawn, professor and head of the Theatre and Dance program at NKU.

Ally Davis will be remembered not just for the roles she played but for the life she lived. Countless students will find their footing and chase their dreams at NKU because she once walked these same halls with purpose, laughter and love.