The American Council of the Blind (ACB), alongside the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), has announced the recipients of its 2025 national scholarship program, awarding 24 legally blind students from across the United States scholarships totaling over $111,400. This initiative, established in 1982, stands as a pivotal financial aid resource for legally blind students pursuing higher education.
Scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 are awarded to students attending technical colleges, entering their freshman year, or pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees. These funds are designated to cover tuition, fees, room and board, adaptive technology, and other educational expenses, significantly reducing the financial burden on students and their families.
ACB Executive Director Scott Thornhill emphasized the program's role in expanding access to higher education for blind and visually impaired students, highlighting that the scholarships not only provide financial support but also recognize the recipients' potential, talent, and dedication. Eligibility criteria include being legally blind, maintaining a 3.0 GPA for most scholarships, and being enrolled full-time or part-time while working at least 32 hours per week, alongside demonstrating community involvement.
Brock Kitterman, a three-time scholarship recipient from Huntingdon, Tennessee, shared how the scholarship has impacted his education at the University of Alabama, where he studies computer science, mathematics, and philosophy. The financial support has allowed him to focus on his studies and prepare for his future career without the added stress of financial constraints.
This scholarship program underscores the importance of accessible education and the empowerment of individuals with visual impairments, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. By investing in the education of legally blind students, ACB and AFB are fostering independence, security, and equal opportunities for all.
