WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 31, 2020)—The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and American Council of the Blind (ACB) today announced they are jointly offering scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $7,500 for students who are blind or visually impaired attending a technical college or as an entering freshman, undergraduate or a graduate student.
Students will be awarded scholarships to help with post-secondary education financial needs such as tuition, fees, room and board and other additional costs associated with using adaptive technology.
"ACB and AFB have a long history of collaboration in the public policy arena, and we are excited to be able to work together in awarding scholarships to students who are blind," said Eric Bridges, Executive Director of ACB.
“The value of a good college education for a blind or visually impaired individual seeking to enter the workforce or simply pursue scholarly pursuits cannot be overstated,” said Kirk Adams, president and CEO of AFB. “We are delighted to partner with our longtime allies at ACB to offer scholarships for those seeking to attend institutions of higher learning.”
Eligibility requirements: Applicants need to be legally blind, maintain a 3.0 GPA (for most scholarships), be a full-time student (as well as students who work 32 or more hours per week and attend college part time), and be involved in their school/local community.
Applications for the 2020-2021 school year can be submitted online from Friday, November 1, 2019 to Friday, February 14, 2020 11:59pm (CST). All interested candidates must register for a new ACB account prior to submitting a scholarship application online at https://www.acb.org/scholarships.
To maximize financial impact, scholarship awardees may receive a combined AFB and ACB award. Scholarship winners will also be invited to attend ACB’s National Conference and Convention in July, where they can meet other students who share similar life experiences, and network with like-minded individuals. The conference and convention also include numerous sessions where attendees can learn about new technology and the latest news and developments in the blindness community.
2020/21 Awards
Doctor Duane Buckley (ACB)
Undergraduate who has overcome major difficulties.
Kellie Cannon (ACB)
Studying in the field of computer science, data processing, programming, web development, etc.
William H. Corey (ACB)
Pennsylvania resident.
Charles Dillman (AFB) (4 scholarships)
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation or teaching.
Rudolph Dillman (AFB) (4 scholarships)
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation or teaching.
Eunice Fiorito (ACB)
Studying in advocacy or disability services.
R.I. Gillette, Gladys C. Anderson and Karen D. Carsel Memorial (AFB)
For an undergraduate woman studying music.
John Hebner (ACB)
Must be working full time and enrolled in substantial courses.
James R. Olsen Memorial (ACB)
Undergraduate studying business, computer science, or information technology and involved in community service.
ACB Oregon (ACB)
Oregon resident.
Ross N. Pangere Foundation (ACB) (3 scholarships)
Studying in the field of business, computer science or information technology.
Floyd Qualls Memorial (ACB) (5 Scholarships)
General studies.
Paul and Ellen Ruckes (AFB)
Studying physical or computer sciences or engineering.
Norma Schecter (ACB)
General studies.
Arnold Sadler (ACB)
Studying in the field of disability rehabilitation, education, or law.
About the American Council of the Blind (ACB)
ACB works to increase the independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life, for all people who are blind or visually impaired. ACB advocates for policies that provide services, opportunities, infrastructure, and equipment that are necessary for an inclusive society, in federal, state, and local governments, and among service providers and industry. For more information, visit www.acb.org.
About the American Foundation for the Blind
Founded in 1921, the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that creates a world of no limits for people who are blind or visually impaired. AFB mobilizes leaders, advances understanding, and champions impactful policies and practices using research and data. AFB is proud to steward the Helen Keller Archive, maintain and expand the digital collection, and honor the more than 40 years that Helen Keller worked tirelessly with AFB. Visit: www.afb.org
