The ASRT Foundation, philanthropic arm of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, will add a new scholarship designed to support the educational and career goals of recipients who identify as LGBTQ+ — the first in ASRT history.
Bill May, M.Ed., R.T.(R), FASRT, a founding member of the ASRT Foundation Board of Trustees, created the scholarship to encourage and support those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning in their pursuit of higher education in the radiologic sciences.
“I’m proud to be an ally of all my lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender colleagues,” said May. “I see this scholarship as a way to honor my many associates who succumbed to AIDS and to show the modern LGBTQ+ community that ASRT is a place for everyone.”
The ASRT Foundation is proudly committed to diversity and inclusion in all of its scholarships, including a number of opportunities designated for minorities. The ASRT Foundation is known as the largest single provider of medical imaging and radiation therapy scholarships in the world.
“It’s time we acknowledge their contributions,” May continued. “Members of the diverse LGBTQ+ community have faced and overcome considerable obstacles to make a significant and positive impact on our profession. As acceptance of the community increases, I believe it’s the right time to encourage and recognize their vital presence in our schools and workplaces.”
As the endowment nears its fundraising goal to begin awarding the scholarship in the 2021-2022 season, the Foundation has also announced a matching commitment of up to $3,500 for additional donations received by June 30, 2021. Recipients of this scholarship will demonstrate involvement in LGBTQ+ community activities as a member or leader of an LGBTQ+ club or other civic activity connected to the community.
The ASRT Foundation awarded 65 recipients a total of $213,200 in scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year. ASRT Foundation scholarship awards are funded by the ASRT Foundation through partnerships with corporations, non-profits and generous ASRT members.