$2,000 Continuing Education Awards
The Rosa DeLauro and Tom Cole GLOBAL Advancement Awards, presented at the AcceptAbility Gala in Washington, DC, will be given to two outstanding individuals with Down syndrome who are pursuing continuing education opportunities after high school. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) are two of GLOBAL’s Congressional Champions who have shown unwavering dedication to ensure that NIH research funding for Down syndrome continues to increase every year. Selected awardees are asked to attend the AcceptAbility Gala, on Wednesday, May 20 at the JW Marriott Washington, DC, where the awards will be presented.
Eligibility:
- Applicant must show a demonstrated interest in continuing education beyond high school and active involvement in their community.
- Applicant must be 18 years of age or older, have Down syndrome or other IDD, and is a U.S. citizen.
- Awards are to be used towards a continuing education program, such as college, post-secondary education program, vocational program, therapeutic training, or any other program that will assist the awardee in achieving their dreams. The program to which the funds will be applied will be reviewed and approved by the scholarship selection committee.
- Recipients agree to attend the AcceptAbility Gala with a guest on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at the JW Marriott Washington, DC, where the awards will be presented. Recipient will be provided a complimentary ticket to the event plus one guest. The recipient must pay for their own travel (airfare and hotel, if needed) to DC for the event.
- Recipients agree to be included in promotional materials for this and future years’ Rosa DeLauro and Tom Cole GLOBAL Advancement Awards. Recipients agree to provide updates to GLOBAL after funds are utilized.
- Recipients may not be persons who are, or at any time in the last 5 years have been, in a position to exercise significant influence over GLOBAL (i.e. board members, ambassadors, family members, etc.).
Instructions:
Complete the below application including:
- A 300-500 word essay describing your future plans and how participation in ongoing education will help you: (1) Reach your goals, (2) Be included in your community, and (3) Help you make an impact in the world *required
- Upload one letter of recommendation (from a teacher, coach, program coordinator, etc.) *optional
- Upload a photo of yourself (high-resolution jpeg file requested) *required
Direct any questions to programs@globaldownsyndrome.org or 720-548-5605
Application window is closed and under review. Check back soon to read about the recipients.
