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 WAER scholarship committee is hoping to have 2025 White Cane Day t-shirts for purchase this year as an additional fundraiser for the scholarship fund. In order to do that we need your help. We are looking for some design ideas. If you would like to create a design for the t-shirt or you know someone who would create a great design please submit the design to the following google form by July 28th.

The scholarship application for the WAER scholarship will open in early Spring of 2026. The requirements can be found by going to the application form. Please forward to any individuals that qualify. 

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 in spring of 2026 using the following form. 

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