Texas Tech Student Receives Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Scholarship for Advocacy Work

Amelia Hernandez has been named the recipient of the 2025 Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Scholarship, an award presented by the law firm Bogin, Munns & Munns. Hernandez, a junior at Texas Tech University majoring in Social Work with a minor in Apparel Design and Manufacturing, was selected for her dedication to advocacy and her personal connection to FASD, having grown up with adopted siblings diagnosed with the disorder.

Hernandez's experiences have shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with FASD and their families. In her scholarship essay, she highlighted how behaviors stemming from the disorder are frequently misunderstood by educators, caregivers, and social workers, sometimes leading to inappropriate interventions or misdirected blame. "Situations like this are often misread because too few people truly understand the disorder or its complex presentation," Hernandez explained. Her goal is to become a social worker who possesses that necessary understanding, aiming to bridge gaps in awareness and advocate for better training and resources within her field.

At Texas Tech, Hernandez actively translates her empathy into service. She serves as a student representative for the Department of Social Work and Anthropology and leads outreach programs through the Volunteer Service Team at the Wesley Foundation, organizing community service initiatives in Lubbock. Her academic and extracurricular efforts are directed toward a future where she can provide meaningful support. After completing her bachelor's degree, Hernandez plans to pursue a master's in social work, with aspirations to work in hospitals serving rural and underserved populations. "I hope to provide resources and a sense of hope to patients and their families," she stated.

The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Scholarship is part of Bogin, Munns & Munns' broader commitment to fostering fairness and compassion beyond the courtroom. Established in 1979, the firm has a long-standing mission to promote respect, dignity, and awareness for individuals facing challenges through no fault of their own. By awarding this scholarship, the firm supports students who demonstrate a passion for advocacy and a drive to create positive change. More information about the firm can be found at https://www.boginmunns.com.

The recognition of Hernandez underscores a critical need for greater awareness and specialized understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder within professional support systems. Her journey highlights the potential impact of combining lived experience with formal education to improve outcomes for vulnerable populations. As misconceptions about FASD persist, advocates like Hernandez play a vital role in educating communities and shaping more compassionate, effective approaches in social work and healthcare. The scholarship not only aids her educational path but also amplifies the importance of targeted advocacy for neurodevelopmental disorders, potentially influencing training protocols and resource allocation in social services.