West-Central Independent Living Solutions (WILS) is proud to announce that Mary Beth Adkins, a high school senior at Lexington High School has been awarded the WILS Empowerment Scholarship. This $500 scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior in Johnson, Lafayette, Henry, Benton, Pettis, or Saline Counties with a disability who plans to continue their education at a four-year college, associates program, community college, or vocational technology program.
Adkins was chosen by a panel of judges based on her essay application. Adkins shared, “My hobbies are aerial silks and welding. I really enjoy being active, creative, and expressive. I found a love of welding through hands-on-learning and hard work. I plan to make a career of welding. Although welding involves math, it helps me with my Dyslexia Dysgraphia to apply math concepts to the real process of welding and building projects.” Adkins took advantage of welding classes both at her high school, at an area technical school, and through the local 4-H club. “I’ve been so blessed to receive this scholarship and thankful for the opportunities it will help provide,” Adkins says. Mary Beth is excited to use her WILS Empowerment Scholarship to continue her education at the Ozark Technical Community College as she pursues a certification of achievement in welding.
WILS collaborates with local high schools to offer independent living courses for students with disabilities to prepare them for transitions to secondary education, the workforce, and living on their own.
Samantha Jarvis, the WILS Independent Living Coordinator, elaborated on Mary Beth’s accomplishment, stating, “The winning of this scholarship is a true testament to Mary Beth’s dedication and perseverance in pursuing her aspirations. It showcases her tireless efforts and steadfast commitment towards reaching her goals. Mary Beth’s achievement serves as an inspiration to her peers and showcases the remarkable outcomes that can be accomplished through hard work and determination.”
As a Center for Independent Living, WILS strives to remove barriers and prejudices and empowers people with disabilities to live independently. They are a nonprofit resource center that serves people with disabilities and their families through programs and services.
For more information on WILS and their programs, please visit their website at w-ils.org or contact info@w-ils.org. Congratulations once again to Mary Beth on her outstanding achievement!