Celebrating Resilience: The 2025 National Achievement Awards
Every year, Learning Ally recognizes exceptional individuals who have excelled despite facing learning challenges. This year is no exception, as the nonprofit organization proudly announces the winners of the 2025 National Achievement Awards. With a focus on uplifting high school and college students, these awards honor those who have shown remarkable academic and personal success.
Recognizing Outstanding Achievements
The National Achievement Awards celebrate students who have faced persistent challenges, including conditions like dyslexia and blindness. Their stories reflect determination and perseverance, showcasing what can be achieved when supportive tools and resources are made available. This year's awardees illustrate the incredible strength of character that allows them to surpass obstacles in their educational journeys.
Inspiring Words from Leadership
Howard Bell, III, the CEO of Learning Ally, shared deep appreciation for the winners, stating, "These students are remarkable examples of determination and academic excellence. Their ability to overcome reading barriers and achieve at the highest levels shows what's possible when students have access to the right tools and support. This year's winners have demonstrated exceptional resilience, leadership, and service to their communities. We're honored to recognize their achievements and the educators who have supported their journey."
The Selection Process and Awards
The selection process for these prestigious awards was enriched this year by a collaboration with CSAA Insurance Group. Their employees volunteered to review applications, ensuring a thoughtful evaluation process that highlighted the deserving candidates from a pool of admirable applicants. The awards not only offer scholarships to the winners but also acknowledge the educators who are pivotal in providing accessible, equitable learning environments.
Top Honor Winners
The Marion Huber Learning Through Listening Award recognizes the top-tier achievers in this competition:
- Carly Bonser from Idaho
- Erica Frishberg from Florida
- Kasey Guren from Illinois
Special Honor Winners
Additionally, the program honors several Special Honor awardees:
- Zsuzsa Horvath from Hawaii
- Lucas Hromada from Maryland
- Benjamin Polega from Texas
Mary P. Oenslager Scholastic Achievement Award
This esteemed award was given to:
- Thomas Woodyard from Georgia
Paving the Way for Future Generations
The importance of these awards extends beyond individual recognition. They shed light on the systemic challenges that many students face, as statistics reveal that a significant percentage of students with learning disabilities struggle to graduate. Moreover, many working-age adults with visual impairments face unemployment challenges, underscoring the critical need for supportive educational systems.
Founded in 1948, Learning Ally started as a volunteer-driven initiative, aiming to provide assistance to veterans with vision loss pursuing education. Today, it has transformed into a leader in educational resources, supporting over 2.4 million students across the United States.
About Learning Ally
Learning Ally, originally known as Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, is committed to empowering educators and students alike. With a comprehensive suite of solutions that cater to varied learning needs, including our acclaimed Learning Ally Audiobook Solution, we strive to assist struggling readers in reaching their full potential.
Getting involved with Learning Ally can positively impact students' lives. Those who wish to support this worthy cause can visit LearningAlly.org/Donate or explore corporate partnership opportunities through our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the National Achievement Awards?
The National Achievement Awards celebrate high school and college students overcoming learning challenges, recognizing their academic successes and personal achievements.
Who can be nominated for these awards?
Students with learning differences such as dyslexia or visual impairments are eligible for nomination, showcasing their resilience and accomplishments.
How are the award winners selected?
A collaborative approach is used, with volunteers reviewing applications to ensure a fair selection process focused on determining deserving candidates.
What types of support do the awards provide?
The awards provide scholarships to winners and recognize the educators advocating for accessible education.
How does Learning Ally assist students?
Learning Ally offers educational resources and tools aimed at enhancing the learning experiences of students facing challenges, empowering them to succeed academically.
