MDFF Educational Scholarship

The MDFF Educational Scholarship sponsored by Busey Bank exists to assist Indiana residents diagnosed with muscular dystrophy or a neuromuscular disease in pursuit of their education goals.

History: the scholarship was originally founded and named after the late Andrew “Sparky” Seever, a former MDFF board member and Ball State alumni. Education was very important to Andrew and he aspired to make it accessible for everyone. MDFF mirrors those values so it was our honor to help Andrew’s legacy live on through the scholarship.

A scholarship of $2,000 will be awarded. The recipient will be selected by the MDFF Awards Committee based on financial need, academic achievement, leadership, community involvement and character. 

The scholarship application window has closed for 2026. Please check back in March 2027 when it opens again. Thank you.

Scholarship Criteria:

  • Diagnosis: Applicant must be diagnosed with muscular dystrophy or a neuromuscular disease (see applicable diseases listed on the MDA website)
  • Residency: Applicant must reside in the state of Indiana, USA
  • Enroll with MDFF
  • Academics: Applicant can be a student of a public, private, home school, or collegiate institution OR can be in a different phase of life wanting to pursue other educational endeavors in order to increase their knowledge in a specific area
  • Eligible Institutions:
    • Two-year or four-year educational institutions
    • Trade school programs
    • Accredited certificate programs
    • May be in pursuit of further education beyond the classroom

Application Process and Timeline:

March 1 through June 1
July 31:  Recipient Announced
August 31:  Recipient Awarded

Past Scholarship Recipients

  • Emily

    2026 MDFF Educational Scholarship Sponsored by Busey Bank

  • Zachary

    2025 MDFF Educational Scholarship Sponsored by Busey Bank

  • Joshua

    MDFF Andrew "Sparky" Seever Scholarship Winner 2023

  • Aayush

    Aayush, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
    MDFF Andrew "Sparky" Seever Scholarship Winner

  • Chloe

    Chloe, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) II
    MDFF Andrew "Sparky" Seever Scholarship Winner

  • Jacy

    MDFF Andrew "Sparky" Seever Scholarship Winner 2024

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