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MEDA Memorial Scholarship Opens 2026 Applications to Support BIPOC Clinicians in the Eating Disorder Field
Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association (MEDA) is proud to announce that applications are now officially open.
Established in 2021 in partnership with the Sullivan Family, the fund was created to address a significant representation gap in the mental health workforce. While BIPOC individuals experience eating disorders at similar rates to white individuals, they are approximately 50% less likely to be diagnosed. Furthermore, BIPOC social workers represent less than 20% of the workforce, with even fewer specializing in eating disorder recovery.
“This scholarship is more than just financial aid; it is a commitment to diversifying the field of eating disorder treatment,” says Monika Ostroff, MEDA’s Executive Director. “Supporting BIPOC clinicians entering the eating disorder field helps ensure that more people can access care that is both culturally informed and deeply compassionate.”
Since its inception, the MEDA Memorial Scholarship has awarded 17 student scholarships and over 50 conference scholarships, totaling more than $36,500 in tuition and educational support. Recipients have represented prestigious institutions across the country, including Howard University, Stanford University, and Boston University.
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Scholarship Details:
• Award Amount: Individual grants ranging from $500 to $5,000.
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• Eligibility: Master’s- and Doctoral-level students specializing in Social Work, Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, or Nutrition.
• Use of Funds: Awards may be applied toward tuition, housing, travel, books, and living expenses. Recipients also receive complimentary access to all MEDA professional development trainings and conferences.
How to Apply:
Interested students can access the 2026 application on the MEDA website or on the link below. The submission deadline is May 22, 2026. Finalists will be selected for interviews in late May, with official recipients announced on or before June 2, 2026.
About MEDA:
The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association (MEDA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. Through education, professional training, and direct support services, MEDA works to create a compassionate community where individuals can find the help they need to achieve lasting recovery.
For more information on how to apply for this scholarship, please visit:
