WILS is proud to announce Cameron Calhoun, a graduating senior from Knob Noster High School, as the recipient of the 2026 WILS Empowerment Scholarship.
The WILS Empowerment Scholarship awards $500 to a high school senior with a disability who resides in Benton, Henry, Johnson, Lafayette, Pettis, or Saline County and is pursuing continued education. The scholarship reflects WILS commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve independence, build skills, and pursue meaningful careers.
“I am super excited and honored to be awarded the WILS scholarship! This scholarship supports my goal to attend State Fair Community College and to gain skills in Information Technology. I want to find a job where I can help people with their technology problems. It feels good to be recognized for the work I put into school and in overcoming challenges I have experienced,” said Calhoun.
Calhoun plans to study Information Technology at State Fair Community College, with long-term goals of building a career that helps others navigate and solve technology challenges. Throughout his educational journey, he has demonstrated determination, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth.
Living with autism, Calhoun has navigated unique learning experiences, including managing distractions, developing structured approaches like checklists, and overcoming challenges in social settings. With the support of classroom accommodations such as extended time, paraprofessional assistance, and modified testing, he has continued to succeed academically while building confidence and independence.
“My autism has impacted my education journey by helping me learn that I can be different and still be able to do the same things as any other kid,” Calhoun shared. “My goal is to help other students understand that they can be different too and still accomplish what they want.”
Calhoun also expressed his aspirations beyond education, noting his desire to live independently and use his future career to make a meaningful difference in the workplace.
“We are incredibly proud to recognize Cameron as this year’s WILS Empowerment Scholarship recipient. His determination, self-awareness, and commitment to building a future in technology reflect exactly what this scholarship is meant to support. At WILS, we believe independence starts with opportunity, and Cameron is a great example of what’s possible when those opportunities are accessible,” said WILS Executive Director Deb Hobson.
The WILS Empowerment Scholarship is open to students who self-identify as having a disability. In alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a history of such an impairment, or being perceived as having one. WILS does not require documentation for eligibility, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
By investing in students like Cameron Calhoun, WILS continues its mission to break down barriers, support independence, and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive in their communities.
About WILS
WILS is a Center for Independent Living dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to live independently through advocacy, services, and community partnerships. Serving rural Missouri communities, WILS works to remove barriers, expand access, and promote inclusion for all. Learn more about WILS youth opportunities at w-ils.org/youth.