Spin has reported that UCLA will be honoring the late Chris Cornell with a scholarship that will fund $1 million in student scholarships at the UCLA School of Law. Named The Chris Cornell Scholarship, it will go to cover student costs of attending one of the most prestigious law schools in the country. Cornell was heavily involved in human rights throughout his career, with the sales of his final release, the single “The Promise” going to help fund the International Rescue Community.
As the guitarist and lead singer of Soundgarden, Cornell became a cultural icon in the 90’s, helping to define the Seattle grunge sound. After Soundgarden’s breakup, he embarked on a successful solo career before reuniting the band. Sadly, Cornell took his own life earlier this year after a Soundgarden show, sending shockwaves throughout the music world.
Earlier this year the rare Cliff Poncier EP that featured a collection of Cornell songs was released for Record Store Day Black Friday. The title refers to a character in the legendary Cameron Crowe movie Singles, a musician that was supposed to be played by Cornell, who was unavailable for the role which instead went to Matt Dillion.