Donate to the Ryan L’Homme Memorial Scholarship

Support the Ryan L'Homme Memorial Scholarship

The Ryan L'Homme Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Ryan C. L'Homme, a dedicated member of the Delta Lambda Colony at Florida State University. Tragically, Ryan’s life was cut short while representing the colony at an intramural softball game. Ryan was an outstanding student and athlete, a Florida Merit Scholar, and a valued leader within his fraternity.

This scholarship continues Ryan's spirit by supporting FSU Pi Kappa Alpha brothers who exemplify his qualities of leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement. Your gift ensures that his memory lives on through the lifelong brotherhood of Pi Kappa Alpha.

Join us in celebrating Ryan’s legacy and making a lasting impact on the future of Pi Kappa Alpha at FSU. Your tax-deductible donation will help fund scholarships for deserving students who embody the same values that Ryan lived by.

Give Today and Honor Ryan’s Legacy.

Ryan L’Homme Biography

April 1981 to March 2000
 
Ryan L’Homme was born in Tampa, Florida. He attended Burns Middle School, where he was a member of the National Junior Honor Society, and later graduated with honors from Bloomingdale High School in Valrico, Florida. While at Bloomingdale, Ryan was actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including:

• Athletics: Pole vaulter for the track team, JV baseball catcher
• Leadership & Service: Member of the Student Advisory Council, Student Government, Senior Steering
• **Community Involvement: **Leo Club (serving underprivileged children), National Honor Society
• Recognition: 1999 Honor Court

Ryan had a deep love for baseball and Florida State University (FSU) football. He attended the Mike Martin Baseball School at FSU for two consecutive years, further fueling his passion for the university. At just nine years old, he asked his parents to take him on a campus tour—an experience typically reserved for high school students—solidifying his dream of becoming an FSU Seminole. That dream became a reality in August 1999 when he enrolled at FSU, joined by four of his closest friends. They became known as the “Fab Five” of Bloomingdale High School.

Shortly after arriving, Ryan rushed Pi Kappa Alpha and was selected as the 20th member of the 97 men chosen to re-found the Delta Lambda Chapter, which had been absent from FSU’s campus for 12 years. His dedication to academics was just as strong as his commitment to the fraternity—he made the Dean’s List in his first semester with a 3.6 GPA and planned to major in electrical engineering with aspirations of working for NASA. He also looked forward to becoming involved with FSU Pike alumni. When intramural softball season began, he eagerly joined the team.

The Accident & Legacy
On March 21, 2000, Ryan was playing in an intramural softball game between Pi Kappa Alpha and Chi Phi. While running to second base, he began his slide just as the shortstop fielded the ball and threw to first for a double play. Tragically, the ball struck Ryan on the right temple. His teammates immediately called 911 and tried to keep him conscious, but he was unresponsive by the time paramedics arrived.

Ryan remained on life support until March 23, 2000, when he was pronounced brain dead. During this time, an organ donor representative approached the family. Though the topic had never been discussed with Ryan, his family and friends unanimously agreed that he would want to help others. Thanks to Ryan’s generosity, five of his organs were donated, saving the lives of four individuals. One recipient later named his first child Zachary Ryan in gratitude.

Remembering Ryan
Ryan’s impact extended far beyond his immediate circle. His passing deeply affected the FSU community. One of his longtime friends, Scott Hundley, expressed the profound loss:
"You always hear that bad things can happen to good people. This is the perfect example. He was somebody I trusted, somebody I depended on. I just had a lot of pride and respect for Ryan."

The night Ryan’s family arrived in Tallahassee, they were asked to address the students gathered for updates. Walking into the auditorium, they were overwhelmed by the sheer number of people—well over 100—who came to show their love and support. It was then that Ryan’s father realized his son’s impact went far beyond his close friends.
Ryan L’Homme’s life was marked by dedication, friendship, and a commitment to excellence. Though his time was short, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched.

 
Respectfully,
Charles L’Homme and Family