In recognition of the outstanding service of Sara Haag, a 32-year employee of the Ohio Department of DD, the Ohio Association of Adult Services established a scholarship fund for OAAS members who plan to pursue additional studies related to developmental disabilities. Up to three scholarships will be awarded yearly, according to the discretion of the OAAS Sara Haag Scholarship Committee. The maximum amount of money awarded each year by OAAS will be $500.

ELIGIBILITY

• Applicant must be an employee of an OAAS member organization for a minimum of one year.
• Applicant must be a high school graduate or have received their GED.
• Applicant must be pursuing coursework toward obtaining ODDD registration or certification and/or an associate, bachelor, master’s degree or PhD related to DD.
• Applicants must be a US citizen or permanent resident of the United States.

APPLICATION

• Applications must be received by the date specified by OAAS at: oaasohio@aol.com. We cannot be responsible for delays in mail delivery. If you wish to include your agency e-mail address, we will acknowledge receipt of your application.
• An application will consist of:
• A completed application.
• A letter of recommendation from an individual familiar with the applicant who can discuss the applicant’s employment and personal qualities.
• A one-page essay (maximum of 500 words, typed, double spaced) indicating why you feel you should receive a Sara Haag Scholarship. Write about your purpose in pursuing studies in the DD field and what your future goals include.

DISPOSITION

• Scholarships will be paid directly to the individual upon completion of the coursework. A receipt and/or certificate of completion must be presented in order to receive payment.
• The award may be applied to the student’s tuition, fees or books.
• Recipients may hold other scholarship awards. However, if a student receives other grants, agency reimbursement or scholarships that completely cover the cost of coursework, the student will forfeit the scholarship.

SELECTION

• All applications will be reviewed and selected by the OAAS Sara Haag Scholarship Committee.
• Financial need will not be a consideration in the granting of the scholarship.
• The Board of Trustees reserves the right to make changes to or discontinue this program at any time.
• Selection of recipients will be completed annually.
• The recipient of the award will be announced in the OAAS newsletter.

Download the Application here, and send to the address listed above, or email to: . Be sure to include both attachments mentioned in the application.