NEW YORK– Hannah DeFelice, a Jewish DeafBlind PhD student in ecology and evolutionary biology at Cornell University, is one of this year’s recipients of the Nathan L. and Suzanne K. Wolfson Merit Scholarship. Her research examines climate change and its effects on natural processes.

This year, $280,000 in Wolfson scholarships was awarded to 28 Jewish students who are blind or have low vision. The 2026-27 class is the program’s largest to date and includes students studying a broad range of subjects at institutions in the United States and Israel.

“This scholarship is both an incredible honor and a meaningful affirmation of my journey as a Jewish DeafBlind student,” DeFelice said. “My research is focused on furthering our understanding of climate change and its impacts on natural processes, while demonstrating that disability is not a barrier to excellence in science. It also reminds me that I am part of a community that values learning, perseverance and the unique perspectives that Blind and Low-Vision Jewish students bring to academia and beyond.”

The Wolfson Merit Award was established in 2018 to honor the legacy of Nathan L. Wolfson and Suzanne K. Wolfson. Awarded by the Wolfson Fund, it recognizes academically exceptional Jewish undergraduate and graduate students around the world who are legally blind or have low vision. Each scholarship provides at least $2,500, and awards range up to $15,000. Award levels are set each year according to available funding and the applicant pool. Past recipients may apply again in later years.

Applications for the next scholarship cycle open Dec. 1, 2026. Details are at jbilibrary.org/wolfson.

Founded in 1931, JBI Library is a nonprofit that supports anyone who is blind, has low vision or has a print disability, so that they may fully participate in Jewish life, from education and community to prayer and celebration. More information is at jbilibrary.org.