Quinn Wagner, a 2025 graduate of Muhlenberg Senior High School, has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the Lighthouse Guild in New York City, recognizing academic excellence and determination as a legally blind student. A resident of Reading, Quinn will attend Cornell University this fall to study environmental engineering.
Diagnosed with Cone Dystrophy, Quinn has excelled academically while navigating the challenges of vision impairment. A turning point came in 10th grade, when a chemistry assignment inspired Quinn to undertake a 16-month research project on converting green algae into biofuel through fermentation. The experience sparked a deep interest in sustainable energy and opened the door to a series of science fair opportunities throughout junior year.
“I realized through competing in science fairs that I wanted to do research as a career, being able to combine my love for engineering, sustainable energy, environmental protection, and even teaching,” Quinn wrote in the scholarship application. The long-term goal includes earning a doctoral degree and pursuing a role in higher education or laboratory research.
Beyond academic ambitions, Quinn is also focused on improving accessibility in STEM fields. While participating in science fairs, Quinn often noticed a lack of representation among students with disabilities. “I wanted everyone to enjoy science like I did, and was quite saddened at the fact that some people may feel as though they are not good enough to be there or do what I was because of a disability which they are unable to control.”
Quinn is one of 17 students nationwide selected to receive a Lighthouse Guild scholarship this year. The awards, totaling $195,000, support students who are legally blind as they begin their college journeys. Since 2005, the organization has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships to help recipients pursue careers in a range of fields.
“These remarkable students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and perseverance,” said Lighthouse Guild President and CEO Thomas Panek. “We are proud to support them as they pursue their goals and contribute their talents to the world.”
More information about the Lighthouse Guild and its scholarship program is available at lighthouseguild.org.
