Down Syndrome Alabama awarded five young adults with scholarships May 5 to go toward their post-secondary education.
Among the recipients, Jackson Ray of Vinemont, Lindsay Davis of Mountain Brook and Grace Davis of Vestavia Hills are enrolled in the Eagles Program at Auburn University. Chandler Herrero of Birmingham is enrolled in CrossingPoints at the University of Alabama, and Hannah Baker of Trussville is enrolled in Mississippi State’s Access Program.
Each applicant submitted applications, letters of recommendation, personal essays and photos in addition to being interviewed by a four-member scholarship committee.
Jake Pratt, who also has Down syndrome and completed the post-secondary education program at ClemsonLIFE, handed out the awards.
According to a press release from Down Syndrome Alabama, Pratt’s wish is to help other young adults with Down syndrome go to post-secondary education programs with scholarships.
UPS granted Down Syndrome Alabama $25,000 in honor of Pratt, who just recently celebrated his 1-year work anniversary with UPS. During the awards ceremony, Justin Heckel, with UPS public affairs and community relations, announced a second $25,000 grant to Down Syndrome Alabama to continue the Jake Pratt Scholarship Fund.
“Down Syndrome Alabama is extremely excited to partner with UPS to give these outstanding young adults scholarships to help offset some of the costs of these programs,” Down Syndrome Alabama’s executive director, Kelly Peoples, said. “These programs, which prepare young men and women with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment and independent living, are a blessing, and we are grateful to have them so close. UPS is delivering what matters. We hope more companies follow their lead and give young adults with disabilities the opportunity to show off their abilities.”
In partnership with The UPS Foundation and Down Syndrome Alabama, the Jake Pratt Scholarship fund was established in 2021. The scholarships are awarded exclusively to students with Down Syndrome seeking a collegiate experience at an accredited program for students who desire to enhance their life through employment, independent living and life skills.