Arc Fayette seeking scholarship candidates
As college students return to campus for the fall semester, The Arc Fayette is encouraging eligible students to apply for the 2026 Merlin Arc Fayette Scholarship, a $2,000 award for students pursuing careers that will improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Now in its second year, the annual scholarship supports undergraduate students preparing to enter fields such as special education, social work, psychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, disability studies, early childhood education and other related fields.
“The need for dedicated, qualified professionals in the IDD field continues to grow, and we want students to know that there is a place for them in this work,” said Mary Mossburg, Executive Director of The Arc Fayette. “The Merlin Arc Fayette Scholarship is one way we can invest in students from our region who are choosing careers that will have a direct impact on the lives of people with disabilities and their families.”
The scholarship honors the legacy of David and Shirley Merlin and continues Arc Fayette’s commitment to strengthening the IDD field by investing in the next generation of professionals.
Applicants must be residents of Fayette County or live within a 30-mile radius, be enrolled in an undergraduate program, have completed at least one semester and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students may attend college online or in person as long as they are pursuing a degree in a field related to IDD.
Applicants must submit an updated resume, current transcript, proof of enrollment, two letters of recommendation and a personal statement of 500 to 1,000 words explaining why they are pursuing a career in the IDD field and how they plan to use their education to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with IDD.
Applications are due Sept. 30.
For complete eligibility requirements and to apply, visit arcfayette.org/scholarship. Questions may be directed to Kyli Stoner, Marketing and Communication Director for Arc of Fayette County, at kyli.stoner@arcfayette.org or 724-438-9042, extension 225.