Oticon announced that graduate students earning AuD or PhD degrees in audiology have until May 31 to apply for Empowering Students Scholarships for the 2021-22 academic year. The American Academy of Audiology Foundation (AAF) has extended the original application deadline of April 15 to May 31 to accommodate challenges students may have encountered due to the COVID pandemic.  This year, an expanded donation from long-time supporter Oticon, Inc has increased the scholarship offerings to $30,000, with up to $20,000 in scholarships to be awarded to Black/African-American students.

Related article: Oticon Donates $30K to AAAF Scholarship Program

“Oticon is proud to partner with the American Academy of Audiology Foundation to empower students who represent the future of audiology,” said Oticon President Gary Rosenblum. “Supporting the success of Black/African-American audiology graduate students is an important step in creating a profession that draws on the strengths of all segments of our population. A more inclusive and diverse profession brings a broader perspective to hearing healthcare, improving our ability to provide life-changing benefits to patients from all backgrounds.”

“Oticon’s expansion of the program to designate funds for Black/African-American students aligns with the Academy Enterprise’s goal of supporting diversity in the field of audiology, and the Foundation is pleased to play a role in that mission,” said AAA Foundation Chair Helena Solodar, AuD. “The generous financial support of Oticon, Inc allows the Foundation to continue to recognize the brightest young professionals early in their careers.”

The AAF raises funds and supports programs of excellence in education, promising research and public awareness in audiology and hearing science. The Foundation offers targeted opportunities to students across the country through scholarships and grants. The programs are designed to help students maximize their learning experiences through leadership, educational, and humanitarian opportunities.

Application deadline for the Empowering Students Scholarships for the 2021-22 academic year is May 31, 2021.  For more information on scholarship program, visit: https://www.audiologyfoundation.org/scholarships-grants/general-education-scholarships-grants.

Source: Oticon, AAF