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Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces Recipients of Inaugural MDA College Scholarship Program

MDA supports higher education opportunities for students living with neuromuscular diseases to empower their future.

New York – Monday, August 12, 2024 -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) proudly announced today the 10 recipients of the inaugural MDA College Scholarship program from across the country. Students applied for this merit-based scholarship of $5,000 per student earlier in the year and were selected based on their commitment to community involvement, leadership potential, and personal growth. The scholarship funds will go towards their pursuit of higher education goals at an accredited college or university. In addition to the financial support, recipients receive access to a community of support, consultation hours to prepare for the various aspects that go into transition to higher education, and a variety of supplemental materials aimed at supporting their transition to college life.

Pictures of the Scholarship recipients.
Muscular Dystrophy Association announces recipients of inaugural MDA College Scholarship Program.

Inaugural MDA Scholarship Recipients:

  • Abby Dreyer, Eastern Connecticut State University, Business
  • Alex Mavian, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Physics/Mathematics
  • Blake Deakin, Arizona State University, Media Arts and Sciences
  • Grace LoPiccolo, Saint Louis University, Bioethics, Public Health
  • Grace Nelson, University of Iowa, Political Science
  • Jacy Thomas, Indiana University, Nursing
  • Jonathan Lengel, Fordham University, Digital Technologies & Emerging Media and Music
  • Olivia Calvert, Washington College, Environmental Studies
  • Serena Desiderio, University of Arizona, Physiology and Medical Sciences
  • Sydney Bryant, Lewis University, Air Traffic Control

“The MDA College Scholarship program underscores MDA’s commitment to supporting young adults living with neuromuscular disease by providing opportunities for higher education,” said Alicia Dobosz, Executive Vice President, Community Engagement. “It’s more important than ever to invest time and resources into this growing group of people who are committed to pursuing opportunities. By providing funds and support, we empower these capable young adults to thrive as they pursue their academic and career goals. MDA is proud to enhance the educational journey of students in our community and support their access to higher education.”

This initiative is designed to cultivate a network of support and connection for students pursuing their educational and career ambitions. Recipients were reviewed by an independent committee made up of individuals living with neuromuscular diseases and members of the medical community to ensure reviewers had familiarity with the neuromuscular disease community.

An MDA Ambassador who served as reviewer said, “Higher education scholarship opportunities for people living with muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular diseases are extremely important to me because I know the financial challenges they face. These challenges go beyond academic tuition, books, and fees including caregiver and assistive device costs. I am deeply passionate about MDA and the entire community dedicated to equal academic and career opportunities.”

Scholarship recipients were chosen through an anonymized review process based on their standout application. The application was open to students of all ages pursuing higher education. Beyond financial support, the program introduces students to an online community of peers, encouraging the exchange of experiences, advice, and of resources.

MDA is grateful for the support of our sponsors including Certinia, and Numotion Foundation.

About Muscular Dystrophy Association

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases. For over 70 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for the support of our families. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

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