TAPDINTO-STEM Scholar
“I would want the TAPDINTO-STEM program to continue because the program offers disabled students a safe place to express their feelings, concerns, and words of advice. The program has given me opportunities, friendships, connections, and mentorship that I never would’ve received without this program.” From a 2025 TAPDINTO-STEM Scholar.
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) Summer Camps
On ADRS College Quest: “This was an unforgettable learning experience. The friendships I made with other students, as well as my counselors, are ones that I will cherish for a lifetime. College Quest showed me that I can be independent, and it taught me how to advocate for my disability,” said Sam Looney, a 2019 participant.
On ADRS ACT Prep Academy: “The four-point increase in ACT scores for participating students has allowed them to not only be accepted into their top choices for college, it has allowed them to compete and receive academic scholarships to many four-year institutions,” said Bedarius Bell, Alabama state coordinator of deaf/hard of hearing services.
“In the six years of this program, we have had four students achieve a 30 or higher on the ACT. As STEM careers continue to dominate our workforce, we anticipate this program will continue to open academic doors for deaf and hard of hearing students,” he said.
Alabama Alliance for Students with Disabilities in STEM (AASD-STEM) – One of TAPDINTO-STEM Predecessor Alliances
“Seeing other individuals with disabilities working toward, and succeeding in, scientific fields at my own university, and at other institutions during the annual conferences, helped show me I was on the right path and not alone,” said previous Alabama Alliance for Students with Disabilities in STEM (AASD-STEM) participant, Dr. Danielle Tadych. “This fellowship allowed me to gain research experience in a lab and travel to conferences to present my results. All have helped me be a well-rounded scientist and gain acceptance into my master’s program at Auburn and subsequent Ph.D. program at the University of Arizona.”