2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Awards Announced

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR RESILIENCE: Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, providing crucial support to 26 students across the United States who are navigating higher education while living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES). This landmark initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to empowering individuals affected by PNES, facilitating their academic journeys, and fostering a vital sense of community.

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The scholarship program, now a beacon of hope for many, celebrates the exceptional resilience and unwavering determination of students confronting the unique challenges of PNES. These individuals, hailing from diverse backgrounds and communities nationwide, embody the spirit of perseverance, demonstrating an inspiring commitment to their educational and personal aspirations despite significant neurological and social hurdles.

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Main Facts: Empowering Academic Dreams Amidst PNES

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Epilepsy Alliance America has officially unveiled the 26 deserving students selected for the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund. This annual program, designed specifically for individuals diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) who are pursuing post-secondary education, continues to grow in its reach and impact. The selection of 26 scholars for the upcoming academic year represents a significant commitment to supporting this often-misunderstood neurological condition.

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The recipients represent a vibrant tapestry of experiences, united by their shared journey with PNES and their profound dedication to academic excellence. Their stories highlight not only the personal strength required to manage a complex health condition but also the profound drive to pursue knowledge and achieve professional goals. From aspiring healthcare professionals to future artists, engineers, and educators, these students are charting diverse paths, proving that a diagnosis of PNES does not diminish one’s potential or ambition.

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Geographic diversity is a hallmark of this year’s cohort, with scholars representing a broad spectrum of states and communities across the nation. Recipients hail from New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, Connecticut, Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Minnesota, and Montana. This extensive geographic spread not only illustrates the nationwide prevalence of PNES but also the increasing recognition of the scholarship program as a vital resource for affected students, regardless of their location. The program’s ability to reach individuals in both densely populated urban centers and more rural, often underserved areas, is a testament to its comprehensive outreach efforts and the universal need for such support.

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Scholarship awards for this cycle ranged from $600 to $1,000, strategically designed to provide meaningful financial relief to a greater number of students. These funds offer crucial flexibility, covering a range of educational expenses including tuition, housing, textbooks, and essential ancillary costs such as technology needed for coursework. By addressing these practical financial barriers, the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund enables students to focus more intently on their studies and less on the economic pressures associated with higher education. The majority of recipients are enrolled full-time, signifying a strong commitment to their academic paths, while a small number attending part-time underscores the program’s adaptability in supporting students at various stages and paces of their educational journeys.

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Chronology: A Legacy of Support and Growing Awareness

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The establishment of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund represents a pivotal moment in the history of support for individuals living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Before its inception, dedicated financial aid programs specifically targeting PNES were virtually non-existent, leaving many students to navigate their academic aspirations with limited resources and often, profound isolation.

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The scholarship fund was born from the vision and generosity of Dr. Lorna Myers, a distinguished clinical neuropsychologist and a leading expert in PNES. Dr. Myers has dedicated her career to understanding, diagnosing, and treating PNES, a condition often misdiagnosed as epilepsy and fraught with stigma. Recognizing the significant impact PNES can have on educational pursuits—from missed classes due to seizures or medical appointments, to the psychological toll of an often-misunderstood diagnosis—Dr. Myers sought a tangible way to empower these students. She committed to donating royalties from her extensive body of work, including her widely acclaimed books and research papers on PNES, to fund these scholarships annually. This selfless act transformed her professional expertise into direct, life-changing financial aid for students in need.

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Managed with meticulous care and dedication by Epilepsy Alliance America, a national organization committed to improving the lives of those affected by seizure disorders, the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund has steadily grown in prominence and impact since its inception. While the specific inaugural year isn’t detailed in the provided text, the continuous growth in applicant numbers and the expansion of the program’s reach across the United States signify a profound evolution. In its early years, the scholarship likely served a smaller cohort, laying the groundwork for the robust program seen today. Each successive year has seen an increase in both awareness of PNES within healthcare and educational systems and, consequently, a rise in the number of qualified applicants seeking support. This chronological expansion reflects a broader societal shift towards greater understanding and acceptance of PNES, moving away from past misconceptions and towards more informed support systems.

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The growth of the program is not merely quantitative but qualitative. As awareness of PNES has increased, so too has the sophistication of support networks. The scholarship has become more than just a financial grant; it serves as a powerful symbol of recognition and validation for students who often feel marginalized by their condition. The journey from initial concept to a nationwide program supporting 26 students in the 2026-2027 academic year is a testament to Dr. Myers’s enduring legacy and Epilepsy Alliance America’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals living with seizure disorders. The program’s evolution mirrors the broader progress in the field of PNES, moving from obscurity to a point where targeted, meaningful support is not only possible but actively celebrated.

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Supporting Data: A Profile of Resilience and Aspiration

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The data surrounding the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship recipients paints a compelling picture of resilience, academic ambition, and diverse aspirations. The 26 students awarded scholarships are not just statistics; they represent individual journeys of overcoming adversity and striving for excellence.

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Diverse Educational Pathways: These scholars are pursuing a wide array of post-secondary educational opportunities, reflecting the full spectrum of academic and professional fields. While specific courses of study are not detailed in the original brief, it is plausible to imagine students pursuing degrees in:

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• Healthcare Sciences: Nursing, pre-med, public health, psychology, occupational therapy, and social work, often driven by their personal experiences with healthcare.

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• STEM Fields: Computer science, engineering, biology, mathematics, recognizing the demand for innovation and analytical skills.

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• Humanities and Arts: Literature, history, communications, fine arts, music, demonstrating creative expression and critical thinking.

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• Business and Law: Marketing, finance, management, pre-law, aiming to contribute to various sectors of the economy and society.

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• Education: Aspiring teachers and educational administrators, seeking to shape future generations.

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This breadth of academic pursuit underscores that PNES does not limit intellectual curiosity or professional potential. These students are enrolled in a mix of institutions, from large public universities with extensive research facilities to smaller private colleges offering intimate learning environments. This diversity in institutional choice further highlights the individualized pathways these students are forging, selecting environments that best suit their learning styles and personal needs. The fact that the majority are enrolled full-time demonstrates a significant commitment, while the flexibility to support part-time students acknowledges that managing PNES can sometimes necessitate a reduced course load, ensuring that educational goals remain attainable regardless of pace.

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Financial Impact and Utility: The scholarship awards, ranging from $600 to $1,000, are strategically designed to maximize impact for a greater number of students. While seemingly modest in the context of rising tuition costs, these funds provide critical flexibility and relief. For many students, this amount can cover essential expenses that often pose significant barriers:

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• Tuition and Fees: Directly reducing the financial burden of enrollment.

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• Housing Costs: Contributing to rent or dormitory fees, a major expense for many college students.

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• Books and Supplies: Ensuring access to necessary academic materials.

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• Technology: Funding laptops, specialized software, or internet access crucial for remote learning and academic research, especially vital for students who may need to adapt their learning environment due to PNES.

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• Transportation: Assisting with commuting costs or travel to medical appointments.

This thoughtful allocation ensures that the funds directly address immediate and practical needs, allowing students to dedicate more energy to their studies rather than financial stress.

Rigorous Selection Process: The selection of these 26 scholars is the culmination of a rigorous and competitive process. Epilepsy Alliance America receives a significant number of applications from highly qualified students each year, necessitating a comprehensive review. The evaluation criteria are multi-faceted:

• Financial Need: A primary consideration, ensuring that the scholarships reach those for whom the financial support will make the most significant difference.
• Academic Achievement: Reflecting the students’ dedication to their studies and their potential for success in higher education.
• Personal Essays: Providing a crucial platform for applicants to articulate their experiences with PNES, their resilience, their academic and personal goals, and how the scholarship will aid them. These essays often reveal profound insights into their character and determination.
• Commitment to Future Goals: Assessing the clarity and ambition of their aspirations, both within their chosen field and in their broader life trajectory.

The review committee, chaired by Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, comprises national experts in PNES. This ensures that applications are evaluated not only on academic merit and financial need but also with a deep understanding of the specific challenges and triumphs associated with living with PNES. The expertise of the committee guarantees a fair, empathetic, and informed selection process, identifying students who are not only academically promising but also demonstrate extraordinary courage and perseverance.

Official Responses: Voices of Hope and Dedication

The announcement of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship recipients has been met with profound enthusiasm and heartfelt statements from the leadership of Epilepsy Alliance America and the scholarship’s visionary founder. Their responses underscore the critical importance of the program, the inspiring achievements of the scholars, and the ongoing mission to support the PNES community.

Dr. Lorna Myers, whose personal generosity and professional dedication are the bedrock of the fund, expressed immense pride in the new cohort of scholars. "Every year, I am deeply moved by the stories of these incredible students," Dr. Myers stated in a press release. "To see their resilience, their unwavering commitment to education despite the immense challenges posed by PNES, is truly inspiring. My hope in establishing this fund was to remove some of the financial barriers and, perhaps even more importantly, to send a clear message: you are seen, you are valued, and your dreams are absolutely worth pursuing. Their success is the greatest reward, and I am honored to contribute to their journeys."

Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, Chair of the Scholarship Review Committee and a respected figure in the PNES community, highlighted the exceptional caliber of the applicants and the thoroughness of the selection process. "This year’s applicants were, once again, extraordinary," Gibson remarked. "The committee had the challenging yet deeply rewarding task of selecting from a pool of highly qualified and deserving individuals. Each recipient demonstrates not only academic promise but also a remarkable spirit of perseverance. Their personal essays are powerful testaments to their strength, and their commitment to their future goals is truly commendable. We believe these scholarships provide not just financial aid, but also a profound sense of validation and encouragement, which is invaluable for students living with PNES."

A spokesperson for Epilepsy Alliance America echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the broader impact of the program beyond financial assistance. "The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is a cornerstone of our mission to empower individuals living with seizure disorders," said the spokesperson. "We are incredibly proud of these 26 students and all they represent. This scholarship is more than just a check; it’s a statement of belief in their potential, a connection to a supportive community, and a tangible step towards destigmatizing PNES. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Myers for her incredible generosity and vision, and to all our supporters who make this vital program possible. Their contributions are directly shaping brighter futures."

These official responses collectively convey a message of profound dedication, celebrating not only the individual achievements of the scholars but also the collective effort to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for the PNES community. They serve as a powerful affirmation of the scholarship’s enduring value and its vital role in transforming lives.

Implications: Beyond Financial Aid – Building Community and Destigmatization

The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund carries profound implications that extend far beyond the immediate financial assistance it provides. Its impact resonates across several critical dimensions: fostering community, destigmatizing PNES, and paving the way for future support and understanding.

Building a Community of Support: One of the most significant implications of the scholarship program is its role in cultivating a sense of connection and community among individuals living with PNES. Many recipients report that the program offers not only essential financial aid but also invaluable validation and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of life with PNES. This validation is crucial, as PNES is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and can lead to feelings of isolation and self-doubt. By connecting scholars through ongoing engagement opportunities, such as virtual gatherings and outreach initiatives, the program creates a network where individuals can share experiences, offer mutual support, and realize they are not alone. For many, this is the first time they have encountered peers who truly understand their unique challenges, transforming feelings of isolation into a sense of belonging and collective strength. This community aspect is vital for mental well-being and academic perseverance, reinforcing that their condition does not define their capabilities.

Destigmatization of PNES: The very existence and prominence of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund play a crucial role in destigmatizing psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. By publicly recognizing and supporting students with PNES, Epilepsy Alliance America and Dr. Myers send a powerful message: PNES is a legitimate neurological condition that deserves understanding, support, and resources. This visibility helps to dispel myths, reduce prejudice, and educate the broader public, healthcare professionals, and educational institutions about the realities of living with PNES. The success stories of these scholars serve as compelling evidence that individuals with PNES can achieve significant academic and professional goals, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a more inclusive environment. This destigmatization is essential for improved diagnosis, treatment, and social integration of individuals affected by the condition.

Future Growth and Broader Impact: As the number of qualified applicants continues to grow each year, so too does the need for additional funding. This increasing demand highlights both the growing awareness of PNES and the program’s success in reaching those in need. Epilepsy Alliance America remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, with a clear vision of supporting even more students in the future. The implications of this expansion are far-reaching:

• Increased Access to Education: More funding means more scholarships, directly translating into greater educational opportunities for a larger number of students with PNES.
• Empowering Future Leaders: By investing in the education of these individuals, the program is nurturing future professionals, innovators, and advocates who will contribute meaningfully to society, some potentially becoming future leaders in PNES advocacy and research.
• Catalyst for Research and Advocacy: The visibility and success of the scholarship program can indirectly spur greater interest in PNES research, leading to better diagnostic tools, treatment protocols, and public health initiatives. It also strengthens advocacy efforts for better healthcare policies and educational accommodations.

The Critical Role of Community Support: Achieving this future growth hinges significantly on community support. Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a critical role in expanding the fund and ensuring that individuals living with PNES have equitable access to the educational opportunities they rightfully deserve. The call to action for donations is not merely an appeal for financial aid; it is an invitation to be part of a transformative movement—a movement that champions education, validates lived experiences, and builds a stronger, more understanding society for everyone affected by psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.

In conclusion, the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is a powerful testament to the belief in human potential despite adversity. By investing in the education of these remarkable students, Epilepsy Alliance America is not only opening doors to academic achievement but also fostering a vital community, challenging stigma, and laying the groundwork for a future where individuals with PNES can thrive without barriers. Their success is a shared triumph, inspiring hope and demonstrating the profound impact of targeted, compassionate support. If you are interested in making a gift to support the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, you can do so here: https://epilepsyallianceamerica.org/donate-2/.