Each year, the Special Education Foundation (SEF) is honored to invest in students with disabilities as they take the next step toward their futures. As this year's scholarship recipients prepare to head to colleges and universities this fall, we're celebrating their accomplishments and the bright futures ahead.
1. A New Chapter Begins This Fall
In just a few short weeks, our 2026 scholarship recipients will begin their post-secondary journeys. Whether they're pursuing four-year degrees, technical training, or other educational opportunities, these students are taking an exciting step toward achieving their goals.
SEF scholarships help ease the financial burden of higher education so students can focus on learning, growing, and building successful futures. Thanks to the generosity of Emerson, the Vickrey and Davis families, and additional donations, these scholarships open doors that might otherwise remain out of reach.
2. Scholarships Create Lasting Opportunities
The impact of an SEF scholarship extends far beyond a single semester. Financial support allows students to purchase books, pay tuition, and reduce the need for student loans—giving them the confidence to pursue their dreams.
One former recipient of the John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson, who continues to inspire us, is Constance Anthony, whose journey shows just how far determination and community support can go. This fall, Constance will begin her senior year at Lindenwood University, where she is majoring in Fashion Design & Technology with a minor in Marketing.
During the past year, she created two fashion collections—including her first menswear collection—and showcased one of her collections at Kansas City Fashion Week.
She is also gaining valuable professional experience as a tailor at Stallone's Formal Wear while serving as the Director of Guest Experiences for Brainchild Next, a fashion consulting and event-planning company.
"The SEF scholarship allowed me to pay for my first year of college fully supported by scholarships, and I am still going strong on being debt-free!" Constance shared.
After graduation, she plans to remain in the St. Louis area and contribute to the region's growing fashion industry as a designer, writer, and marketer.
3. Your Support Helps Students Reach Their Dreams
Every SEF program is made possible because of caring donors who believe in the potential of students with disabilities. As our newest recipients prepare to begin college and former recipients like Constance continue to thrive, we're reminded that an investment in education creates opportunities that last a lifetime.
Thank you for helping students pursue their passions, achieve their goals, and build brighter futures. We can't wait to see where this year's scholarship recipients go next, and we look forward to sharing their successes in the years to come.
