Calvin Dawson Memorial Award

Scholarship Sponsored by Hemophilia Foundation of Florida

Description
**Purpose**
The Calvin Dawson Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the advocacy and community leadership of Calvin Dawson by providing financial support to students connected to the bleeding-disorders community in Florida. It is intended for students who demonstrate determination, compassion, and a commitment to service—qualities exemplified by Dawson. The scholarship supports post-secondary study at universities, colleges, technical/trade schools, or certification programs. The program reinforces BDFF’s mission by investing in the next generation of leaders and advocates.

Key takeaways
- Honors Calvin Dawson’s legacy through student support.
- Targets students connected to the bleeding-disorders community.
- Supports a range of post-secondary programs.
- Emphasizes leadership, compassion, and service.

History of the Award
**Origin**
The scholarship was established to commemorate Calvin Dawson, the founder and first Executive Director of the Hemophilia Foundation of Greater Florida (now the Bleeding Disorders Foundation of Florida, BDFF). Dawson spent his career improving life for people with bleeding disorders; this fund perpetuates that work by supporting students who embody his values. The award links BDFF’s institutional history to ongoing community investment. It serves both as memorial and as a tool for community development.

Key takeaways
- Created in memory of Calvin Dawson, BDFF founder.
- Connects BDFF’s history with current community support.
- Honors a legacy of advocacy and service.
- Functions as both memorial and investment in future leaders.

Eligibility
**Who can apply**
Applicants must be Florida residents who have been diagnosed with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, or another hereditary bleeding disorder. Candidates must be high school graduates pursuing post-secondary education at a university, college, technical/trade school, or in a certification program. Volunteer participation with BDFF or another bleeding-disorder organization during the 2025–2026 calendar year is required as part of eligibility. Meeting these conditions is necessary for an application to be considered.

Key takeaways
- Must be a Florida resident with a hereditary bleeding disorder.
- Must be a high school graduate entering post-secondary education.
- Requires volunteer participation with BDFF or a related organization in 2025–2026.
- All eligibility requirements are mandatory for consideration.

Selection Criteria
**How recipients are chosen**
Award decisions are made by evaluating academic achievement, demonstrated financial need, community service, and the aspirations articulated in the required personal essay. The selection process balances merit (academic performance) with need and community engagement to identify candidates who best reflect the scholarship’s purpose. Strong supporting references and a clear, compelling essay increase an applicant’s competitiveness. Final selection is made by BDFF or its designated committee.

Key takeaways
- Evaluated on academics, financial need, community service, and essay.
- Mixes merit and need-based considerations.
- Personal essay and references are important differentiators.
- Final decisions made by BDFF or its review committee.

Application Materials
**Required documents**
A complete application package must include the official application form, the applicant’s most recent school transcripts, and three character reference forms. Applications that are missing any required document will not be reviewed. Applicants should assemble and verify all materials before submission to avoid disqualification due to incompleteness. Follow BDFF’s submission instructions exactly to ensure the application is accepted for review.

Key takeaways
- Must submit the application form, recent transcripts, and three reference forms.
- Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
- Verify all documents before submitting.
- Follow BDFF instructions precisely.

Award Value
**Amount and availability**
The provided information does not specify the scholarship amount or the number of awards distributed. For details on award size, payment method, and how funds are disbursed, applicants should consult BDFF’s official materials or contact the organization directly. BDFF can confirm current award values, any restrictions on use of funds, and whether awards are renewable. Do not assume an award amount without verifying with BDFF.

Key takeaways
- Award amount and count are not specified in the provided materials.
- Contact BDFF or check official BDFF materials for current award values.
- Confirm disbursement method and any usage restrictions.
- Verify whether awards are one-time or renewable.

Application Timeline
**Deadlines and review process**
Specific application deadlines and the timing of award announcements are not listed in the supplied text. Applicants should consult BDFF’s website or contact BDFF for the current application opening and closing dates, review schedule, and notification timeline. Allow sufficient time to collect transcripts and three reference forms before the posted deadline. Early preparation reduces the risk of submitting an incomplete or late application.

Key takeaways
- No specific deadlines provided in the source material.
- Check BDFF’s official channels for current application dates and timelines.
- Prepare transcripts and references well before the deadline.
- Early submission helps avoid disqualification for missing materials.

Next steps / Contact
**How to proceed**
To apply or get up-to-date information on award amounts, deadlines, and other details not included here, reach out to the Bleeding Disorders Foundation of Florida (BDFF) directly or visit their official website. Verify eligibility, required documents, and submission instructions before preparing your application. If you have questions about the volunteer requirement or acceptable reference types, confirm them with BDFF staff. Doing so ensures your application meets all program requirements.

Key takeaways
- Contact BDFF or visit their site for missing details and current guidance.
- Confirm eligibility and document requirements before applying.
- Ask BDFF about any ambiguities (volunteer scope, deadlines, award specifics).
- Preparation and confirmation minimize application errors.