Snapshots 2004: A Yearbook for DO-IT Participants

Welcome to DO-IT Snapshots 2004!

This publication facilitates communication between DO-IT participants and was developed in August, 2004. DO-IT Scholars are high school students with disabilities who are preparing for college. They have interests in challenging fields that include science, engineering, technology, and business. They attend Summer Study programs at the University of Washington in Seattle and communicate via the Internet year-round. Additional high school students with disabilities, the DO-IT Pals, join this electronic community. When Scholars move on to college or employment, they become DO-IT Ambassadors, sharing their experiences with the younger Pals and Scholars. This electronic community is also supported by DO-IT Mentors. Most Mentors have disabilities themselves and are pursuing challenging postsecondary studies and careers.

Along with the challenges and triumphs of DO-IT participants, in this edition of Snapshots, I have some sad news to report. Three of our DO-IT Ambassadors, Shawnna, Chris, and Anna passed away. They will be missed by everyone who knew them and their contributions to DO-IT will forever be felt.

Primary funding for DO-IT is provided by the National Science Foundation, the State of Washington, and the U.S. Department of Education. These and other investors, listed in the DO-IT Funding section of this publication, sponsor the many activities that DO-IT undertakes. We appreciate their generous support. Those who wish to help fund continued efforts can refer to the Support DO-IT! section.

DO-IT has received many awards, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. We also received the National Information Infrastructure Award in 1995, the Golden Apple Award in 1999, and the AHEAD (Association for Higher Education and Disability) Exceptional Program Award in 2001. These awards document the achievements of the DO-IT participants. Together, they are changing the world, making it a more accessible place for all of us.

Sheryl Burgstahler, Ph.D.
Director, DO-IT
College of Engineering/Computing & Communications/College of Education
University of Washington