Molly Clay, a junior psychology major, has been awarded the Karina Eide Memorial College Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia. The Dyslexic Advantage is the largest online network for dyslexic individuals, parents, teachers, and other professionals. Their mission is to foster positive identity, community, and strength for every dyslexic child and adult. They created this award in commemoration of Karina Eide, a woman who was dedicated to encouraging a passion for writing and mentoring young students. This prestigious scholarship awarded over $40,000 to students who have dyslexia. Clay was one of the 18 recipients for this year and was awarded  $2,500.

Clay has been an avid promoter of UAB’s Disability Support Services for two years. She is both an employee and user of the services. Clay has not let dyslexia impede  her success. She maintains a spot on the dean’s list while balancing a job and participation in multiple campus organizations. She is also the winner for this year’s  Student Excellence Awards in the Commitment to Campus Inclusion category.

“This scholarship is allowing me to follow my dreams. The Karina Eide Memorial College Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia has made me realize that my disability might make it harder to read and write, but it makes helping others realize their potential so much easier,” Clay said. “My dyslexia is a part of me, but not all of me. This scholarship has allowed me to see I have so much potential and so many people that believe I can change the world by achieving my dreams.”

For more information about Disability Support Services, visit http://www.uab.edu/students/disability/.