SCHOLARSHIP FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES AWARDED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 22,1996

Fairbanks, Alaska - The first University of Alaska Fairbanks scholarship to be offered specifically for students with physical disabilities has been awarded to UAF junior Shane Watson.

The Rafson Scholarship was established last year by the Fairbanks Host Lions Club through the Gerald Rafson Medical Fund, established to pay for surgery for Rafson. When it was later determined that Rafson would not have the surgery, he suggested that part of the fund be used for a UAF scholarship. The Rafson Scholarship is named in honor of his parents, Eugene and Loretta.

Watson, a computer science major who has a bilateral hearing impairment, says that his significant hearing loss has presented challenges during his on-going pursuit of a college education. Watson's remedy contains two key ingredients-dedication and a smile.

"He works hard, is responsible, and his refreshing attitude and honesty set him apart," said Candis Shannon, a graduate assistant with the English department who tutored Watson at the UAF Writing Center. "Shane succeeds by putting in extra hours accessing the information that others absorb effortlessly," said Shannon in a letter supporting Watson's scholarship.

Watson is one of more than 150 students who received assistance from Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) this year. From only ten students seeking assistance in 1989, the number of students seeking assistance in the past seven years has increased dramatically, according to SSD Coordinator Diane Preston.

SSD provides the majority of on-campus services for students with disabilities, which include verifying disability documentation, advocacy for students, referral to other campus agencies, note taking and providing interpreters.

Applicants for next year's $500 Rafson Scholarship can pick up forms at the UAF Financial Aid Office starting in January 1997. The scholarship is distributed by the University of Alaska Foundation.

CONTACT: Services for Students with Disabilities Coordinator Diana Preston (907) 474-7043, or Jillian Swope, University Relations (907) 474-7581

JCS/8-22-96/97-010