Happy New Year!
This year we had several qualified candidates nominated for the Jeannette Anderson Annual IARP WA Scholarship, which provides one year of free membership to a student or intern in the field of Rehabilitation. We are so appreciative of everyone that applied and all of the nominations that were submitted! Thank you for participating in your chapter's activities! Our award recipient this year goes to a student and intern.
Ryan Allen
Here is an introduction to Ryan written in his own words:
At age 53, I am once again a student at Western Washington University pursuing a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling. I am also grateful to have joined Disability Management & Consulting in Spokane Valley, Washington, as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Intern. I have much to learn, but I am motivated to help clients and would like to affect the rehabilitation counseling profession positively.
I was raised near Lake Tahoe, Nevada, where my dad, a roofing contractor, instilled in me a solid work ethic and an understanding of the importance of education. I was interested in science and desired to help people, so I completed a BS in Health Sciences at the University of Nevada and a Doctorate in Dental Medicine at Oregon Health Sciences University. I practiced dentistry for almost 20 years, focusing on patients with dental phobia and disabilities that made undergoing dental care challenging.
My wife and I were high school sweethearts and are approaching our 30th wedding anniversary. We have two adult children who reside in Phoenix, Arizona. Our beautiful daughter is an oncology nurse, and our son recently graduated with a degree in communications. As empty nesters, my wife and I have had to replace our kids with Buggy and Bear, our two spoiled cats.
As an avid chess player, I enjoy developing strategies to overcome challenges while considering the big picture. Similarly, I am honored to receive this year's Jeannette Anderson Scholarship, which will help me gain a broader understanding of rehabilitation counseling.
Welcome, Ryan!
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Katie Rogge
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
krau@eastsidevocational.com
Ellensburg, WA United States
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