Scholarship Opportunity

Lou Fontana Scholarship Fund

Offered by Maine Administrators of Services for Children with Disabilities (MADSEC)

The Lou Fontana Scholarship Fund supports undergraduate and graduate students within the University of Maine System who are pursuing degrees leading to careers in special education. Preference may be given to students preparing to work with individuals with severe disabilities and to applicants entering the profession through a nontraditional pathway.

EssayRequired
RenewableNo
Grade LevelCollege Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Graduate Student, Adult Learner

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

Annual Scholarship Cycle

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineApril 29, 2026

Eligibility

  • Be an undergraduate or graduate student within the University of Maine System.
  • Be matriculating toward a degree leading to a career in teaching special education.
  • Students preparing to work in the area of severe disabilities may receive preference.
  • Applicants following a nontraditional path into the profession may receive preference.

Requirements

  • Complete the Lou Fontana Scholarship application.
  • Provide academic information, including GPA.
  • Submit a current resume.
  • Describe paid or volunteer work experience with people with disabilities.
  • Submit a statement of commitment to working with students with disabilities.

How to Apply

  1. 1Complete the scholarship application available through MADSEC.
  2. 2Prepare a current resume detailing relevant education and work or volunteer experience.
  3. 3Write the required statement describing your commitment to working with students with disabilities.
  4. 4Submit the completed application and supporting materials to MADSEC by the annual deadline.

Essay Support

Writing an essay for this scholarship?

ScholarScore can help you review your draft for clarity, organization, authenticity, impact, and scholarship readiness without rewriting your essay for you.

Review My Essay →

Before using AI-assisted feedback, check the scholarship provider's current rules regarding AI tools.