Empowering Futures, Honoring Families
The Maria McTernan Sibling Scholarship was established in 2020. It is named in honor of Maria McTernan. For more than a decade, beginning in 2003, Maria served as RSAngels’ (known as RSAM at that time) Vice-President of Programming and then as Co-President. It was primarily because of Maria’s determination and effort that RSAngels was granted five entries for charity runners in the 2011 Boston Marathon. Maria chaired the RSAngels Marathon Committee until her passing in 2014. We are honored to offer this scholarship again for a fifth year.
By supporting our families, RSAngels remains true to Maria’s vision. She is greatly missed and in our hearts we hold her close. Naming this scholarship in her honor is a small token of RSAngels’ appreciation of her friendship and her dedication to our cause. Maria’s warmth, compassion and sincerity were appreciated by the many families she touched. Maria and her husband Gerry have three children, Lori, their youngest, has Rett Syndrome. Maria was also involved with the Rett community on the national level and worked professionally with an organization for individuals living with disabilities. This scholarship is named in tribute to Maria whose dedication to the disability community serves as an inspiration.
The Rett Syndrome Association of Massachusetts, d.b.a. Rett Syndrome Angels, recognizes the strain that having a child with Rett can put on a family both financially and emotionally. Not only parents and guardians, but siblings of those afflicted with Rett share the daily struggles against Rett Syndrome and make sacrifices to help their brother or sister live a healthier fuller life. In appreciation for all that siblings do for their families, Rett Syndrome Angels is offering up to $2,000 for financial assistance for continuing education. An announcement will be made by April 28, 2025.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is open to: 2025-2026 school year
- High school seniors or current college students
- Siblings of individuals diagnosed with Rett syndrome
- Must live in one of the six New England states
- Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a 2-year or 4-year college, or a trade, vocational, or technical school in the U.S
Scholarship Details
- Award Amount: up to $2000
- Application Deadline: April 12,2025 at midnight
Application Requirements
To apply, please submit:
- A completed application form
- A personal essay (500-750 words) detailing how Rett syndrome has impacted your family and influenced your educational goals
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online here.
Our Mission
We believe in the strength of families affected by Rett syndrome. This scholarship recognizes the often-overlooked contributions of siblings who provide love, care, and support. By investing in their future, we hope to ease some of their financial burdens and empower them to achieve their dreams.
For questions or more information, please contact Larry@rsangels.org
“Through Our Eyes: Sharing Our Sibling’s Journey with Rett – Watch, Learn, and Celebrate Every Moment!”
Past Recipients
2024
- Alexandra H. (Rhode Island)
- Avery M. (Massachusetts)
- Mason O. (Connecticut)
- Peter T. (Massachusetts)
2022
- Evamena E. (Massachusetts)
- Brianna K. (Maine)
2021
- Emma G. (Maine)
- Nathan F. (Connecticut)
2020
- Richard B. (Massachusetts)
- Hannah S. (Massachusetts)
- Hailey Z. (Connecticut)
- Sara A. (Massachusetts)
FAQ: must live in one of the New England States.
