[NFBV-Announce] IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR 1ST TIMERS TO ATTEND NATIONAL CONVENTION!

Mon Apr 7 15:43:45 UTC 2025

***REMINDER: DEADLINE TO APPLY IS TUESDAY, APRIL 15***

**How to Attend the NFB 2025 National Convention: Scholarships and
Fellowships for First-Timers**

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) 2025 National Convention is an
extraordinary event bringing together over 3,000 blind and low-vision
individuals from across the country. This year, it's happening in the
vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, from July 8-13, 2025. If you've
never attended this transformative convention in person, there are two
incredible programs to help make your first experience unforgettable: the
Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship and the McDonald Fellowship. Here's
everything you need to know about these opportunities.

### **The Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship**

The Kenneth Jernigan Convention Scholarship, run by the National Federation
of the Blind, is a national program designed to assist first-time convention
attendees. This scholarship aims to empower individuals to overcome the
challenges of vision loss by connecting them with a supportive community and
resources during the convention.

**Who Can Apply?**

Anyone who has never attended an NFB National Convention in person is
eligible to apply for this scholarship.

**How to Apply:**

- Visit the [Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship webpage](
<https://nfb.org/get-involved/national-convention/kenneth-jernigan-conventio
n-scholarship> https://nfb.org/.../kenneth-jernigan-convention-scholarship)
for full details.

- The application requires responses to essay questions. Ensure you review
and prepare your answers thoughtfully before submitting.

- Deadlines for this scholarship align with the McDonald Fellowship to
encourage applicants to pursue both opportunities.

### **The McDonald Fellowship**

Established in 1998, the McDonald Fellowship honors the legacy of Robert and
Marian McDonald, who contributed significantly to the progress and
empowerment of blind individuals in Virginia. Administered by the National
Federation of the Blind of Virginia (NFBV), this program specifically
supports Virginians attending the national convention for the first time.

**Who Can Apply?**

First-time attendees from Virginia who are connected to an NFBV chapter or
affiliate are encouraged to apply. Winners will receive financial assistance
to cover the costs of attending the convention, including travel, lodging,
and meals.

**What to Expect as a Fellow:**

- McDonald Fellowship winners must attend the entire convention and are
expected to participate in the banquet on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

- Winners will be paired with mentors who help them navigate the convention
and make the most of their experience.

- Fellows will share their experiences during the 2025 NFB of Virginia State
Convention.

**How to Apply:**

- Submit your application online at [
<https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fnfbv.org%2Fmcdonald&h=AT1Iv8GjB
UR-bU6xueJpIInz51-8MjXsUiGKOtLghLe-xM0wPkGdEec2I-Kid9ieJFXKjot8hvy-XTYRKE-hO
JnHOCe52Q3QAz_t2bMiu_sZWd9z0W3m03lJJ6-0vwYiq68-531i1Puc7OowlXQwHsBsUiNlZOUBS
lPzjtyMryNMh3Sc&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5b0%5d=AT31vrBv3AH66GWAqp7DbSnhUQouH6m8t1w_9U
kJ7Xh6Od7YrfFRkgHXIj2SUhlqq0n1z2ChGjC8v7jwv548dmGnYyhZ9mFu7YzZAwY386bnkHNMoK
g8VBsufCSE95AzwVIiMaQe6gJV3s2G5zVPiQOmVSqxlQF7flHQ1n4ZsEsAggX54Ue4IzvpdaVtXl
Ke> nfbv.org/mcdonald]( <https://nfbv.org/mcdonald>
https://nfbv.org/mcdonald) by **Monday, April 15, 2025**.

- Prepare answers to the following in advance:

- Personal contact details

- Chapter or affiliate connection

- How you will benefit from the experience

- Contributions to your chapter or affiliate over the past year

- Any additional pertinent details

- Obtain a recommendation letter from your Chapter President or an affiliate
Board Member. Recommendation letters are also due by **April 15, 2025** and
should be sent to Mary Durbin at mrdurbin at cox.net <mailto:mrdurbin at cox.net>
.

### **Tips for a Strong Application**

1. **Prepare Early:** Since the online forms don't allow you to save and
return, draft your answers in a separate document first.

2. **Be Clear and Concise:** Avoid complex formatting like bullet points or
fonts that the form may not support.

3. **Secure Recommendations Early:** Reach out to your chapter leaders well
in advance to ensure they have time to write a strong letter for you.

### **Why You Should Apply**

Attending the NFB National Convention is a life-changing experience. You'll
gain new skills, meet mentors, and connect with a community that understands
the challenges and opportunities of vision loss. Both the Kenneth Jernigan
Convention Scholarship and the McDonald Fellowship are designed to help you
take advantage of this incredible event. Don't miss the chance to learn,
grow, and be inspired-apply today!

If you have any questions about the McDonald Fellowship, contact Mary Durbin
at mrdurbin at cox.net <mailto:mrdurbin at cox.net> .

Make 2025 the year you attend the NFB National Convention. It won't be the
same without you!

Peace,

Jacki Bruce

Corresponding Secretary NFBV

mailto:jackibruce6 at gmail.com

tel:(757)291-1789

Membership Chair

mailto:membership at nfbv.org

tel:(757)354-4170

Find us on Facebook @NationalFederationoftheBlindofVirginia

Find us on Instragram @nfbofvirginia

Subscribe to our Youtube: NFB Virginia

www.nfbv.org <http://www.nfbv.org/> 

STRONGER TOGETHER!

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