Teachers PortalEducation is a powerful tool that empowers individuals to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams. However, for students with Tourette Syndrome, the journey towards academic success can be accompanied by unique challenges. Recognizing the importance of inclusive education, numerous organizations, institutions, and foundations have come forward to offer scholarships specifically designed to support students with Tourette Syndrome in their pursuit of higher education.
As the academic year 2023/2024 approaches, a range of scholarships tailored to the needs of students with Tourette Syndrome have emerged, providing them with the financial means to pursue their educational goals without unnecessary burden. These scholarships not only alleviate the financial strain on families but also contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for students with Tourette Syndrome, fostering their personal growth and academic achievements.
In this article, we will explore some of the prominent scholarships available for students with Tourette Syndrome in the upcoming academic year. We will delve into the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the positive impact these scholarships have on the lives of recipients. Whether you are a student with Tourette Syndrome or a parent or guardian seeking financial assistance for your child, this comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable insights and resources to navigate the scholarship landscape and seize opportunities for a brighter future.
1. Dollars 4 Tic Scholars Tourette Syndrome Scholarship
The Dollars 4 Tic Scholars Tourette Syndrome Scholarship, provided by the Kelsey B. Diamantis TS Scholarship Family Foundation, Inc., is a remarkable opportunity for students with Tourette syndrome to receive financial support and recognition for their academic pursuits. Established in 2014 by co-founder Kelsey Diamantis Padilla, who herself experiences Tourette syndrome, the foundation aims to address the lack of scholarships specifically tailored to the challenges faced by individuals with this condition.
Every year, from November to April, Dollars 4 Tic Scholars opens its application process for incoming college freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students across the nation. The scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial strain associated with Tourette syndrome, which may include expenses such as medication, psychoeducational testing, tutoring, counseling or therapy sessions, class retakes, and accommodations like private dorm rooms or sensory equipment such as weighted blankets and noise-canceling headphones. These scholarships acknowledge the difficulties students with Tourette’s face in traditional classroom settings, focusing on their ability to study, concentrate, and perform during exams due to motor and vocal tics.
Since its inception, Dollars 4 Tic Scholars has awarded 28 college scholarships to students throughout the United States, with some recipients hailing from Florida. Additionally, the foundation has supported 10 children in attending summer camp programs specifically tailored for individuals with Tourette syndrome. The scholarships are made possible through the generous donations of individuals and organizations who recognize the importance of empowering students with Tourette syndrome to achieve their academic goals.
The scholarship selection process entails a comprehensive evaluation of applications by a panel of experts and individuals familiar with Tourette syndrome. Criteria considered during the review include academic achievements, involvement in the community, leadership skills, personal growth, and the potential to become an advocate for raising awareness about Tourette syndrome.
For detailed information regarding the Dollars 4 Tic Scholars Tourette Syndrome Scholarship, including application deadlines, eligibility requirements, and contact information, please visit their official website at https://www.dollars4ticscholars.org/application/. The website serves as the most reliable source for the latest updates on the scholarship program, enabling interested individuals to apply for this invaluable opportunity or provide support to this impactful initiative.
2. Chad Stovall Memorial Scholarship
The Javon A. Stovall Memorial Scholarship was established in loving memory of Javon Akil Rogers Stovall, a vibrant young individual whose life was tragically cut short due to complications with epilepsy. Javon was only 27 years old when he unexpectedly passed away while pursuing his graduate studies at Florida International University (FIU) in November 2021. The news of his untimely demise deeply impacted not only his family and friends in his home state of Iowa but also the FIU community, including students, staff, and faculty.
To honor Javon’s life and preserve his legacy, those who knew and cherished him have come together to create the Javon A. Stovall Memorial (JASM) Scholarship. They seek support in building the scholarship fund, which aims to assist deserving FIU graduate students who embody the qualities and values that Javon exemplified throughout his life.
In November 2021, a heartfelt Celebration of Life was held at FIU, attended by over 200 family members, friends, and members of the FIU community, both physically and virtually. It was a touching tribute to Javon, with testimonials from numerous individuals who shared the impact he had on their lives.
Since Spring 2022, the JASM Scholarship has been awarded annually to at least one eligible FIU graduate student. This scholarship serves as a beacon of hope for those who continue Javon’s aspirations and dedication. Javon was pursuing his master’s degree in Higher Education at FIU, with plans to apply for the university’s doctoral program in teaching and learning, specializing in sociocultural and curriculum studies. As a graduate assistant at the Pride Center within the Office of Social Justice and Inclusion, Javon sought personal growth and sought to uplift his community and society as a whole. He embraced his identity as a queer, disabled student of color, valuing social justice education, leadership development, and scholarship. Javon’s genuine care for others, his advocacy for acceptance, inclusivity, and his ability to inspire those around him left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
Born to Julie Kay Rogers and Joseph Stovall in Iowa City, Iowa, Javon’s passion for music blossomed during his time at West High School. Following his graduation in 2012, he pursued his musical ambitions at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, before continuing his studies at Kirkwood Community College and eventually the University of Iowa (UI), where he obtained degrees from both institutions in May 2020. Javon’s academic journey then led him to FIU for his graduate studies.
The Javon A. Stovall Memorial Scholarship represents an opportunity to celebrate and perpetuate Javon’s inspiring spirit. By supporting deserving students who share his vision and commitment, this scholarship keeps his legacy alive and ensures that his impact will continue to be felt within the FIU community and beyond.
To apply for this scholarship, visit the official website.
3. The John Lepping Memorial Scholarship
The John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Lep Foundation for Youth Education, aims to support students residing in New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania who are pursuing higher education. This scholarship has been specifically designed to assist disabled individuals who have shown exceptional determination in completing their college education despite facing setbacks. The scholarship amount can go up to $5,000 and is intended to alleviate the financial burden of college for disabled students who may have additional medical costs to contend with.
Eligibility for the scholarship includes various physical conditions such as spinal cord injuries, limb loss, and birth defects, as well as psychological conditions like autism and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Applicants must provide proof of disability in the form of a physician’s letter of confirmation, which is required after being notified of the award. Additionally, applicants must be permanent residents of New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania.
The scholarship selection criteria are based on academic achievement, demonstrated by evidence of working to one’s full potential, meeting the eligibility requirements in one of the three outlined categories (physical or psychological conditions), and being accepted for admission to an institution of higher education such as a college, community college, university, or vocational school. Official documentation must be provided to substantiate all grades.
By offering the John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, the Lep Foundation aims to recognize the determination and resilience of disabled students, providing them with financial support to pursue their educational goals. This scholarship not only assists with the costs of college but also serves as a symbol of encouragement and belief in the potential of disabled individuals to succeed academically and contribute to society.
The John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Lep Foundation for Youth Education, provides financial support to qualified students pursuing higher education. This scholarship honors the legacy of John Lepping, who greatly admired disabled students’ determination to overcome obstacles and complete their college education. Its purpose is to alleviate the financial burden of college for disabled individuals who may lack resources due to overwhelming medical costs. Eligibility is open to individuals with physical conditions (such as spinal cord injury, limb loss, birth defects, etc.) and psychological conditions (including autism, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.). Applicants must provide proof of disability with a physician’s confirmation letter. Additionally, three letters of recommendation from non-family members are required. Applications can be submitted via email or mail. For further information, please visit the scholarship’s website.
The scholarship amount varies, with an average award of $5,000. Applicants must attend a university, four-year college, two-year college, or vocational-tech school. The scholarship is specifically available to individuals with learning or physical disabilities and is restricted to residents of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.
To apply for the John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, applicants should prepare the following documents: proof of disability, a completed application form, an essay, a financial need analysis, recommendations or references, and a transcript. The application form can be submitted by email, and all necessary details can be found on the scholarship’s website.
For any further inquiries or assistance, interested individuals can contact the scholarship organizers via email at thelepfoundation@gmail.com or by mail at PO Box 299, Millstone Township, NJ 08510.
4. ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship
The ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship is a scholarship program that provides financial assistance to high school students with Tourette syndrome who are planning to attend college. The scholarship is open to students who are US citizens or permanent residents, have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, and have been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. Applicants must also submit an essay describing how Tourette syndrome has impacted their life and how they plan to use their college education to advocate for others with Tourette syndrome.
The scholarship was founded in 2015 by ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters, a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to people with Tourette syndrome and their families. The organization’s mission is to “foster a love of learning and reward the perseverance it took to get to college despite challenges from Tourette syndrome.”
The ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship is one of several scholarships available to students with Tourette syndrome. Other scholarships include the John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, the Tourette Association of America Scholarship, and the Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada Scholarship.
To learn more about the ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship, visit the organization’s website at https://scholasticsupport.org/. The application deadline for the 2023/2024 scholarship year is March 1, 2023.
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident.
- Be a high school senior graduating in 2023.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
- Have been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome.
- Submit an essay describing how Tourette syndrome has impacted their life and how they plan to use their college education to advocate for others with Tourette syndrome.
The application process for the ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship is as follows:
- Visit the organization’s website at https://scholasticsupport.org/.
- Click on the “Scholarships” tab.
- Click on the “Apply Now” button for the ScholasTIC Tourette’s Supporters Scholarship.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your essay.
- Submit your high school transcript and two letters of recommendation.
5. Kenny’s Dream Foundation Scholarship
The Kenny’s Dream Foundation Scholarship is a scholarship program that provides financial assistance to high school students with Tourette syndrome who are planning to attend college. The scholarship is open to students who are US citizens or permanent residents, have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5, and have been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. Applicants must also submit an essay describing how Tourette syndrome has impacted their life and their goals for the future.
The scholarship was founded in 2014 by the Kenny’s Dream Foundation, a non-profit organization that was created in memory of Kenny Lindo, a young boy who had Tourette syndrome. The foundation’s mission is to “provide support and resources to individuals with Tourette syndrome and their families, and to raise awareness about the disorder.”
The Kenny’s Dream Foundation Scholarship is one of several scholarships available to students with Tourette syndrome. Other scholarships include the John Lepping Memorial Scholarship, the Tourette Association of America Scholarship, and the Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada Scholarship.
To learn more about the Kenny’s Dream Foundation Scholarship, visit the foundation’s website at http://kennysdreamfoundation.org/.
Here are some additional details about the scholarship:
- The scholarship is worth $1,500.
- The scholarship is awarded to two students each year.
- The scholarship can be used to cover tuition, fees, books, or other educational expenses.
These are just a few of the many scholarships available to students with Tourette Syndrome. To find more scholarships, you can search online or contact local organizations that support people with Tourette Syndrome.
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