SCHOLARSHIP

Each year, the WAER recognizes accomplished individuals in the field of blindness and low vision. Additionally, we offer a $1000.00 scholarship to help support one individual who is going into the field.

The scholarship application for the WAER scholarship is open. The requirements can be found by going to the application form. Please forward to any individuals that qualify.  The deadline to apply is April 1, 2026. Please share with anyone you know who qualifies. 

AWARDS

Omar L. Miron Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation
The WAER Rehabilitation Award was renamed the Omar L. Miron Award in 1990 to honor a man who was committed to his profession and to providing quality services to the persons he served. This award is reserved for WAER members who have demonstrated excellence in the field of Vision Rehabilitation.

William H. English Award for Excellence in Education
The WAER Education Award was renamed the William H. English Award in the early 1990s.  William English was a leader in his profession and a life-long educator of children who are blind or visually impaired. This award is reserved for WAER members who have demonstrated excellence in education, natural leadership and outstanding enthusiasm.

WAER Special Award

The WAER Special Award is given to an individual who is not a member of AER but who has made a significant contribution to the field of blindness and visual impairments.

Nominating a deserving member of our field will take place ahead of the Collaborative Vison Conference being held on April 30 and May 1, 2026.  To nominate a deserving person for any of these awards please complete the WAER Award Nomination Form. Nominations will close on March 1, 2026, and recipients will be honored during lunch on Friday May 1, 2026 at the Collaborative Vision Conference. 

2025 Award and Scholarship Winners

• William H. English: Kay Rhode
• Special Recognition: Denise Jess
• Special Recognition: Bianca Williams-Griffin
• Scholarship: Mayra Badillo-Mendez
• Scholarship: Andres Isidoro