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Our mission is to empower people living with neuromuscular diseases to live longer, more independent lives.
2025 MDA College Scholarship Recipients Announced
MDA supports higher education opportunities for students living with neuromuscular diseases to empower their future.
New York - Monday, August 11, 2025 – The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of MDA College Scholarships, an empowering initiative now in its second year, designed to help young adults in our community follow their passion for leadership and community engagement. Sixteen exceptional students have been awarded scholarships of up to $3,500 based on their leadership, dedication to community, and personal drive. Beyond financial assistance, the program provides a network of support, educational content to guide their transition to college, and resources that foster confidence, independence, and long-term success in higher education.
2025 MDA Scholarship Recipients:
- Makayla Adams, University of Virginia, Biomedical Engineering
- Hassana Alnajjar, Washington State University, Marketing and Management
- Selim Argun, Emmanuel College, Biology
- Brenton Braxton, University of Illinois, Sports Management
- Sydney Bryant, Lewis University, Air Traffic Control Management
- Olivia Calvert, Washington College, Environmental Studies and Anthropology
- Blake Deakin, Arizona State University, Media Arts and Sciences
- Abby Dreyer, Eastern Connecticut State University, Business Administration
- Jonathan Lengel, Fordham University, Digital Technologies and Emerging Media
- Grace LoPiccolo, Saint Louis University, Bioethics and Catholic Studies
- Maxey Mapp, University of North Carolina, Exercise and Sports Science
- Diego Ramirez, University of Cincinnati, Urban Planning
- Jason Rice, Pennsylvania State University, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
- Connor Stager, University of Georgia, Economics and Molecular Biology
- Miles Sylvester, Dickinson College, International Business
- Xavier Taggart, University of Cincinnati, Game Design
“MDA is proud to continue this important initiative for the second year by awarding 16 outstanding students in the neuromuscular community with a scholarship,” said Alicia Dobosz, Executive Vice President, Community Engagement. “These students represent the future of our community. They are leaders, changemakers, and advocates. Their unique perspectives and experiences will add tremendous value and help to shape more inclusive and empowered communities. At Muscular Dystrophy Association, we are deeply committed to investing in young people living with neuromuscular diseases by providing the resources, encouragement, and community support they need to thrive in their academic and professional journeys.”
Scholarship recipients were selected through a rigorous, anonymized review process led by an independent panel that includes individuals living with neuromuscular disease and medical professionals with deep ties to the community. The process emphasized leadership, ambition, and community involvement. Open to students of all ages pursuing higher education, the program provides financial support and fosters academic and personal growth. Recipients are welcomed into a community of peers, designed to build lasting networks of connection and support, where they can share lived experiences, exchange advice, and pursue their goals with confidence.
An MDA Scholarship recipient, Brenton Braxton, said “Receiving the MDA College Scholarship is truly impactful. It eases my financial burdens, allowing me to concentrate on my education and future career. This support significantly boosts my efforts toward independence, providing essential resources. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and belief in my potential.”
“I truly appreciate the support that you provide for us and the MDA community. You are creating opportunities for me to thrive and succeed in higher education. It means so much to me and others in the MDA Community,” MDA Scholarship recipient Connor Stager.
MDA is grateful for the continued support of our program sponsor, Numotion Foundation.
Media contact press@mdausa.org.
About Muscular Dystrophy Association
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is the #1 voluntary health organization in the United States for people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular conditions. For 75 years, MDA has led the way in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating support and inclusion of families living with neuromuscular disease. MDA's mission is to empower the people we serve to live longer, more independent lives. To learn more visit mda.org and follow MDA on Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube
About Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 75th Anniversary
In 2025, the Muscular Dystrophy Association proudly marks 75 years legacy, impact and momentum in the fight against neuromuscular diseases. Since our founding, MDA has been at the forefront of research breakthroughs, providing access to comprehensive care, and championing the rights of people living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and over 300 other neuromuscular diseases. This milestone has been made possible by generations of dedicated support from people living with neuromuscular disease, their families, researchers, clinicians, volunteers, and donors—who boldly drive our mission forward. As we look ahead, we remain committed to honoring this legacy, building on the impact we’ve made together, and continuing our momentum toward transformative progress for people living with neuromuscular disorders. Learn more at MDA75.org.
