Raymond M. Peterson Scholarship

Geographic Scope: San Diego and Imperial Counties, California

Mission: Support emerging student leaders pursuing careers in intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) and related fields. Dedicated to supporting post-secondary students and removing financial barriers to higher education.

About the Scholarship

• Established in honor of Dr. Raymond M. Peterson, a visionary advocate and leader in the I/DD community
• Provides financial assistance to university and college students pursuing careers focused on I/DDs or related disciplines
• Exclusive to residents of and students attending colleges/universities in San Diego and Imperial Counties

Eligible Fields

• Special education
• Social work
• Clinical services
• Behavioral analysis (ABA)
• Speech-language pathology
• Psychology
• School psychology (bilingual)
• Educational services
• Disability advocacy
• Service coordination

Award Amount

• Range: $500 - $3,000 per recipient
• Total awarded annually: Up to $40,000+ (e.g., 2025: $44,000 awarded to 10 recipients)

Eligibility Requirements

• Post-secondary student (undergraduate or graduate)
• Resident of San Diego or Imperial County OR attending college/university in these counties
• Pursuing career in intellectual and developmental disabilities field or related disciplines
• Demonstrated commitment to serving I/DD community
• Academic achievement and community involvement

Recent Recipients (2025)

Ten recipients awarded including:

• Ph.D. candidates
• Master's degree students (MSW, child and adolescent development)
• Credential program students (special education, bilingual)
• SDRC coordinators and professionals
• Individuals with lived experience (e.g., living with epilepsy)

Application Process

1. Download Application
   • Visit https://www.foundationfordd.org/peterson-scholarship
   • Download the application form
2. Submit Application
   • Complete all required sections
   • Submit by the annual deadline (typically April timeframe; specific dates vary by year)
3. Application Components (based on available information)
   • Student information and contact details
   • Education and enrollment information
   • Career goals and commitment statement
   • Community involvement and leadership experience
   • Academic achievement documentation
   • Personal statement addressing commitment to I/DD field
4. Selection Process
   • Reviewed by FDD Scholarship Committee/Board
   • Evaluation criteria: academic excellence, community involvement, commitment to I/DD services
   • Winners announced and notified
5. Award Notification
   • Scholarship recipients are interviewed and selected by committee
   • Awards granted by FDD Board of Directors