Overview

Have you heard about the fun, fellowship, and empowerment of a state convention of the National Federation of the Blind? Always wanted to attend but didn't have the means? Then we urge you to apply for a scholarship from the National Federation of the Blind of Nebraska (NFBN) Gwendolyn M. Mangnall scholarship fund.

It is through the generosity of a bequest left for us from Mrs. Mangnall that we are able to award this scholarship. Scholarship requests must be received by February 15, 2025, so please make your application a priority, since available funds are limited.

FAQ

Who can apply?

Active NFBN members, whether blind or sighted, or blind individuals interested in learning more about the National Federation of the Blind of Nebraska are eligible to apply.

How do I apply?

1. Submit a letter by February 15th, providing your contact information, your NFBN chapter or division information, or how you became interested in learning more about the NFBN. Specify the amount you are requesting to cover the convention expenses you are unable to afford. Explain what you hope to gain from attending the NFBN convention, as well as what you hope to be able to one day contribute to the efforts of the National Federation of the Blind.
2. Submit a letter of recommendation from your local NFBN chapter or division president, rehab counselor, teacher, or other non-family member.
3. E-Mail all documents to treasurer@ne.nfb.org or mail to Cheryl Livingston, 1026 S 35th St, Lincoln, NE 68510.

When will I be notified? 

If you are chosen to receive this scholarship, you will receive communication from the committee with convention details that should answer most of your questions. The committee will make every effort to notify scholarship winners by March 1st, but you must do several things before that to be prepared to attend if you are chosen.

1. Make your own hotel reservation. If something prevents you from attending, you can cancel the reservation. (Yes, you may arrange for roommates of your own to reduce the cost.)
2. Register online for the entire convention, including the banquet, by February 15th. Winners must plan to attend the convention in its entirety in order to receive a scholarship.
3. If you do not hear from the committee by  March 10th, then you will not receive a scholarship this year.

 How will I receive my convention scholarship?

At convention, you will be given your funds by State Treasurer Cheryl Livingston. The committee is not able to provide funds before the convention, so if you cannot afford these basic expenses, we recommend that you work with your chapter or division and others to assist you by obtaining an agreement to advance funds should you receive a scholarship, with the understanding that you will reimburse these funds after you receive your scholarship. You can also contact Treasurer Cheryl Livingston should you run into difficulty obtaining the necessary funding in advance of the committee's decision.

What if I have more questions?

For additional information, email Treasurer Cheryl Livingston at treasurer@ne.nfb.org or (402) 4882509.

Join Us

Above all, please use this opportunity to attend the National Federation of the Blind of Nebraska State Convention. You won't want to miss the most dynamic and influential gathering of Nebraska's blind this year. Be sure to visit our website, ne.nfb.org/convention25, for registration details, and information regarding transportation to the convention. We hope to see you in Omaha from March 27th through March 30th!