Snapshots 2021: A Yearbook for DO-IT Participants

Welcome to DO‑IT Snapshots 2021!

The world suddenly changed when the pandemic changed how we all lived our lives early last year. In a flash, new normals included social distancing, hand sanitizers, and face masks. At DO-IT, we mourned the loss of our planned Summer Study program for DO-IT Scholars on the UW campus, but wasted no time in figuring out how to deliver engaging activities without meeting in person. Laptops were delivered to homes, setup and tech support were provided remotely, participants and staff met via Zoom, activities, discussions, and social events occurred online, and, by the last day, staff and interns were exhausted as usual. Some things were lost, much was gained, but all Scholars took key steps in preparing for college and careers, expanding their network while using technology as an empowering tool, and networking. That is what DO-IT is all about!

This publication facilitates communication among DO‑IT Scholars, Pals, and Mentors. DO‑IT Scholars are high school students with disabilities who are preparing for college and careers. They have interests in challenging fields that include science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. They attend our Summer Study program at UW, participate in internships and leadership activities, and take part in an e-community year-round. Additional high school students with disabilities, DO‑IT Pals, join this e-community. When Scholars move on to college, they become DO‑IT Ambassadors, sharing their experiences with younger students. This e-community is also supported by DO‑IT Mentors, most of whom have disabilities themselves and are pursuing challenging postsecondary studies and careers. 

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 submit their donation with the Support DO‑IT: How Can You DO-IT? form. 

DO‑IT has received many awards, including the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. DO-IT was recently inducted into the Susan M. Daniels Disability Mentoring Hall of Fame. We have also received the National Information Infrastructure Award, the Golden Apple Award, the Association for Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) Exceptional Program Award, the Trace Research and Development Center’s Catalyst Award, the University of Washington College of Engineering Team Innovator Award, the Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities (COSD) Robert S. Greenberg Innovation Award, and the AHEAD Professional Recognition Award. These awards document the achievements of the DO‑IT participants. Together, these young people are changing the world, making it a more welcoming and accessible place for all of us.

Sheryl Burgstahler, PhD
Founder and Director, DO‑IT and Accessible Technology Services, UW-IT
Affiliate Professor, College of Education
University of Washington