1993 Scholars
Blind
Earned a bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology at the University of Washington. Was an artist, consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics, and black belt in Aikido when she died from cancer in June 2004. She received a DO-IT Trailblazer award the same year.
Visual impairment
Currently working as a contact representative at the U.S. Treasury. Working towards four-year work anniversary. This is his second full-time job and his longest job in over a decade.
Cerebral palsy
Starting own business selling assistive equipment for wheelchairs.
Hearing impairment
Earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Washington State University and a master’s degree in physical therapy from Eastern Washington University. Works at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center in Vancouver, Washington as an inpatient physical therapist. Received second bilateral cochlear implant. Mother of two.
Hearing impairment
Has earned three associate degrees in electronic technology, computer science and criminal justice. Works as a hotel desk clerk and has been a firefighter and on an emergency medical services team for 11 years. Working towards emergency medical technician certification this year.
Attended Big Bend Community College and Eastern Washington University. Was developing plans for an Internet-based business when he died peacefully in his sleep in 2001.
Dyslexia
Earned a bachelor of science degree in mathematics and computer science and a bachelor of arts degree in international political economy from the University of Puget Sound. Is a software engineer for a startup in Denmark. Married with three children. Living in Minnesota.
Spina bifida, Homer’s syndrome, thalamic pain syndrome
Earned an associate degree from Wenatchee Valley College and has worked as a professional recording artist.
Mobility impairment
Graduated with an associate degree in computer information and technology. Works as a court interpreter for the Punjabi language.
Multiple sclerosis, visual impairment
Works for Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind.
Stroke resulting in right side weakness
Earned a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in applied psychology from Eastern Washington University. Earned a master’s in social work through an online program at the University of Southern California. Works as a crisis mental health therapist. Married and is a mother.
Blind
Earned a bachelor’s degree from The Evergreen State College and a master’s degree in technology management from City University of Seattle. Works as a senior systems analyst at Transaction Network Services. Married with children.
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
Rodney was studying software engineering and psychology and engaging in various computer projects when he passed away in November 2021. He is always honored and remembered as DO-IT’s “first” Scholar, as his work with Sheryl helped pave the way for the program to be funded.
Learning disability
Earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Seattle University. Founded Fleming’s Holiday Lighting, a holiday lighting company. Married, has two kids, and owns a home in West Seattle.