The SENIA Student Award honors a student, adult or group that celebrates the achievements of people with disabilities; encourages awareness of the abilities and aspirations of people with disabilities; and advocates on behalf of exceptional people in the world.

Who May Submit Nominations?

Nominations may be made by

  • Teachers
  • Principals
  • Related service providers
  • Friends
  • Parents

Award Selection Criteria

The SENIA Student Award Review Committee, which is made up of SENIA members, will select one winner who fulfills the SENIA mission statement:

  • Raising awareness of special needs
  • Advocating for special needs
  • Effort in raising awareness and advocacy
  • Impact on the local, national and international community

Nomination Requirements

  • Submit nominations digitally via the nomination form.
  • Submit all documentation together and in English.
  • One nominator to submit documentation (does not need to be a SENIA member)
  • Double check the spelling of the nominee’s name
  • Submit a nominee’s photo.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation
  • The student must answer one of the following questions (select any medium):
    • What inspires or motivates you to advocate for yourself and/or your peers with special education needs?
    • What do you hope to achieve by advocating for yourself and/or your peers with special education needs?

Award Benefits

  • Attend a special awards ceremony and celebration at the SENIA International Conference.
  • Receive accommodations for award winner and chaperone during face to face conferences
  • Receive a plaque honoring the award winner.
  • Receive a financial scholarship of $1500 USD
  • Present a short presentation (10 minutes) at the SENIA conference sharing your inspirational story of awareness and advocacy for special needs.
  • Be featured on SENIA ‘s website, newsletter and social media platforms.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Candidates must be 2″“21 years of age when they are nominated.
  • Nominee must have an identified disability.

Timelines

– Applications Open: April 1, 2021

-Application Deadline: October 15, 2021

-Judging: October 16 – 23, 2021

-Decision: October 24-25, 2021

-Ceremony: December 3 – 5, 2021