Ten Futures, One Mission: Introducing the 2026 Dr. Raymond M. Peterson Scholars

At the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD), we believe education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change, especially in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). That belief is at the heart of the Dr. Raymond M. Peterson Scholarship.

Established in honor of Dr. Raymond M. Peterson — a visionary advocate and devoted leader in the I/DD community — the scholarship carries his legacy forward by equipping the next generation of professionals with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to advance the field.

This year, the FDD Board of Directors proudly awarded $50,000 in scholarships to ten post-secondary students pursuing careers that directly support individuals with I/DD across special education, social work, clinical services, and advocacy.

Honoring the Legacy of Leadership

Dr. Peterson dedicated his life to advancing disability services and championing equal opportunity for all. The scholarship that bears his name continues that vision: removing financial barriers, expanding access to education, and supporting the leaders who will shape the future of the I/DD community. This year's recipients reflect exactly the kind of dedication he stood for.

Meet the 2026 Peterson Scholars

This year’s ten scholarship recipients are pursuing their education at colleges and universities across the region, including California State University San Marcos, San Diego State University, UC San Diego, and Grossmont College. Several are working toward master’s degrees, including three future social workers — one on the path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker — as well as a graduate student in early childhood education. Others are completing undergraduate degrees in psychology and special education, earning a special education teaching credential, or training to become registered nurses.

What unites this cohort is not a single field of study or stage of life, but a shared commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Whether they are preparing for careers in special education, behavioral and clinical services, social work, or healthcare, each scholar is building a future centered on service, advocacy, and inclusion across San Diego and Imperial Counties. Many are already working in the field and returning to school to deepen their knowledge, expand their impact, and better serve their communities.

Meet this year’s scholarship cohort and hear, in their own words, how receiving this scholarship is helping shape their academic journey, professional aspirations, and future goals.

Why the Scholarship Matters

Scholarships are more than financial assistance; they allow students to focus on their goals without the weight of financial stress. For those preparing to work in the I/DD field, that support is a direct investment in a well-trained, compassionate, and culturally competent workforce.

The Peterson Scholarship is also deliberately local. It's awarded exclusively to residents of, or students attending colleges and universities in, San Diego and Imperial Counties. That focus is intentional; it strengthens the very communities the recipients will go on to serve, building a deep-rooted connection between where these students learn and where they'll make their difference.

The result is a stronger local network of educators, therapists, and case managers and a steady source of leaders committed to inclusion, equity, and lifelong support for individuals with I/DD.

How the Scholarship Supports Post-Secondary Students

This year's $50,000 award is shared across all ten scholars, helping cover the real costs that so often stand between a post-secondary student and the finish line, including tuition, books, fees, and the everyday expenses of staying enrolled.

For many in this cohort, that support is what makes continued education possible while they're already working in classrooms, clinics, and service roles. By easing financial pressure, the scholarship gives students the freedom to stay on the course, complete their credentials and degrees, and step into the careers our communities urgently need. Every dollar awarded is a dollar invested in someone who will spend their career strengthening the lives of individuals with I/DD and their families.

For the scholars themselves, that support is deeply personal. As one recipient shared:

"Winning the Peterson Scholarship is more than a gift; it's a powerful affirmation that my dream of working in special education is within reach. After years of dedication, this support fuels my purpose and reminds me that every step I've taken has been worth it. I'm one step closer to making a real difference in the lives of the students I've always hoped to serve."

Looking Ahead

We couldn't be prouder of our 2026 Peterson Scholars. Their determination, vision, and commitment to building inclusive communities inspire all of us. As they continue their academic journeys, we look forward to celebrating their successes and the lasting change they'll bring to our region.

Help Us Keep This Momentum Going

Your support makes programs like the Peterson Scholarship possible, helping us invest in the future of more inclusive communities, one scholar at a time. A legacy gift is one of the most meaningful ways to create lasting impact, ensuring individuals with developmental disabilities are supported, valued, and included for generations to come. Thank you for considering this powerful expression of compassion and commitment.

Support FDD's Mission