David Lee Cook, Jr., and Autism Delaware Executive Director Teresa Avery at a scholarship awards dinner.(Photo: Courtesy of Autism Delaware)
It wasn't until David Lee Cook Jr. graduated from the Delaware Autism Program after sixth grade that he felt confident to go to college someday. Years later, a scholarship from Autism Delaware reassured him again.
"It meant a lot to me," he said. "Autism Delaware was there for me for most of my life."
They offered him support and mentoring, and through social gatherings, introduced him to other kids with autism, he said. Then, they gave him a scholarship: $1,000 for four years. Cook graduates this spring from West Chester University in Pennsylvania with a degree in actuarial science.
Another student could soon follow in his footsteps, Autism Delaware said, as once again the organization accepts applications for three different scholarships.
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The first, for adults with autism, like Cook, provides financial support for those pursuing a post-secondary education.
The Daniel and Lois Gray Memorial Scholarship provides financial support to students who intend to work in the autism field, while a new scholarship provides financial support for teachers who wish to pursue an autism certification.
Applications and guidelines for all three scholarships can be found at autismdelaware.org.
Contact Jessica Bies at (302) 324-2881 or jbies@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @jessicajbies.
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Source: Autism Delaware offering college scholarships
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