Honoring alumnus James Foley at Marquette University: Local artist painting his portrait

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- As part of Marquette University's annual Mission Week events, artist Mary Pimmel-Freeman was painting a portrait of slain journalist and Marquette alumnus James Foley on Wednesday, February 4th.

The painting was set to be completed by Wednesday evening.

"I didn't know much about him before starting the painting other than just what I heard on the news and the more that I get to know him through the painting and research it's just an honor to connect with his spirit and to share his message with a wider audience," Pimmel-Freeman said.

Foley was kidnapped in 2012 by the Islamic State, which recorded and posted a video of his murder last August.

After his tragic death, Foley’s family and friends established the James Foley Endowed Scholarship at Marquette University, which was promoted by the likes of Katie Kouric and Anderson Cooper. As a result, more than 1,400 donors worldwide have contributed approximately $320,000.

Fundraising continues, but once fully funded, the scholarship will provide a renewable scholarship each year to a College of Communication freshman. The first Foley Scholar will be named next academic year.