AboutFace is pleased to announce the 2024 recipients of the AboutFace Post-Secondary Scholarship: Katherine Chadwick and Claire Stultz. This year’s scholarships are once again made possible through the generous support of the CIBC Foundation.
Katherine Chadwick will be completing a master's degree in Neuroscience at McGill University. Katherine is the recipient of many academic honours as well as a committed volunteer and played on McGill’s women’s varsity soccer team throughout her undergraduate years.
Katherine’s plan to focus on cerebrovascular research stems from her personal experience growing up with a facial port wine stain and the need for more research into cerebrovascular conditions.
“I imagine telling a younger version of myself that I have received support from an organization that welcomes and inspires individuals with facial differences. The thought of this opportunity makes me so proud of the younger version of myself for continuing through every moment that I have ever felt self-conscious, lost confidence, or doubted my identity because of my difference”, says Katherine.
Claire Stultz will be entering Mohawk College in the Social Service Worker Program towards her career goal of working with children with disabilities.
Claire was born with Mosaic Trisomy 22, a rare diagnosis that, in her case, resulted in heart issues, hearing impairment, and facial asymmetry. She has been an active volunteer in both the facial difference and disability communities for many years.
In recommending her for the scholarship, Claire’s teacher says, “in the number of years that I have known Claire, I have witnessed the incredible capacity for leadership, strength and compassion that she brings to those fortunate to work alongside her.”
Says Claire, "Growing up, it was places like AboutFace camp that made the biggest difference in my life. The leaders helped me become more confident and willing to take risks. I want to make a difference like that in other kids' lives."
Says CIBC Foundation Executive Director Ronan Ryan, “We are proud to support AboutFace again this year in their work to strengthen educational opportunities for youth with a facial difference. This aligns with CIBC Foundation’s ongoing commitment to advancing economic inclusion for all. Congratulations to the very deserving scholarship recipients.”
With eligibility limited to students with a facial difference who are pursuing post-secondary studies, the AboutFace Scholarship is unique in Canada.