Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship, sponsored by MCLA, Inc.

SCHOLARSHIP: $1,000
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, May 10, 2023 at 11:59PM EST

Summary: The Illuminating Engineering Society District of Columbia Section (IESDC) will award a merit-based, single year $1,000 scholarship to recognize and support future contributors in the fields of lighting and electrical design.

Eligibility: The scholarship is open to women, persons of color, and/or LGBTQ+ individuals who are citizens of the United States, permanent U.S. residents, as well as holders of U.S. student visas (F-1).

Applicants must be students currently enrolled in a part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate program as a degree candidate in the fields of Architectural Lighting Design, Theatrical Lighting Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, or Electrical Engineering at an accredited college/university within Washington, D.C. Metropolitan region.

Applicants must be able to attend the IESDC Candela Awards Ceremony on Thursday, June 30th, 2022 at the Hamilton Live in Washington, D.C. Exceptions may be made due to health concerns or other reasons. Please include any reason(s) with your application.

Deliverables: Email the following three items listed below to IESDC Education Chair, Tina Sarawgi and IESDC Secretary, Doris Ho ([email protected]) by the deadline listed above to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

  1. Completed Application
  2. Resume, including any supplemental information to this application
  3. A one to two page essay.

Essay: In a one to two page essay, describe how you fit the criteria, and how you would benefit from this opportunity. Essay topics may include:

  • What are your educational and professional goals and objectives?
  • What inspired you to pursue a design career?
  • What interests you about lighting and/or electrical design?
  • What social and/or economic challenges have you encountered?

Past Scholarship Recipients


  • Sidnia Garcia, Marymount University (2021)

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