30 Scholarships Creating Life-Changing Opportunities

by Gianna Bevilacqua, OAC Communications Coordinator; and OAC Members

Summer 2025

This year, the OAC awarded 30 scholarships—the most we’ve ever awarded—through the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship Fund, giving more individuals the chance to experience the Your Weight Matters National Convention.

Rob was a passionate and welcoming voice in the OAC Community—first attending the convention as a participant, then joining the Convention Welcoming Committee and ultimately serving on OAC’s Board of Directors. His legacy lives on in this scholarship fund, which reflects his belief in making others feel seen and supported.

As part of OAC’s 20th Anniversary, this year’s Convention holds special meaning. Thanks to generous support from Geisinger Health System—our 2025 Matching Donor—we’re making a greater impact by helping more people step into this life-changing event.

Applications were thoughtfully reviewed and scored by the Obesity Research Team at the Milken Institute School for Public Health at George Washington University and awarded by advocate Amber Huett-Garcia, BS, MPA.

These scholarships represent more than financial support—they represent opportunity, providing access to OAC’s unmatched education and community for people who might not have otherwise had the chance to experience it in person.

More than a Scholarship — A Seat at the Table

Our Convention is unlike any other. It blends science-based education with a warm, welcoming atmosphere where people affected by obesity can gather without judgment and with the assurance that they are never alone.

Past recipients share just how life changing the experience can be.

“Being a recipient of the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship was one of the biggest blessings I could have ever received. Attending the 2023 Your Weight Matters National Convention allowed me to meet new people and make new friends. I loved the fact that this is a no-judgment zone where you can be yourself and accept others for who they are. Through informative sessions, interactive classes and fun-filled events, I was able to see that I am truly not alone and that there are people with knowledge and expertise in the area of obesity fighting for us.” — Deborah

“Without a scholarship, I would not have been able to attend the Your Weight Matters National Convention. Gaining access to this program and receiving financial assistance is something I haven’t taken for granted. I am forever grateful for the OAC and the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship allowed me to attend the Convention, where I was able to learn more about myself and understand the complexity of obesity as well as the stigma attached. It doesn’t hurt that it’s allowed me to meet some pretty fantastic people, too!” — Anita

“I returned home from the OAC’s Your Weight Matters National Convention fortified with knowledge and the strength that comes from sharing similar lived experiences with fellow attendees. The convention gave me a desire to make circumstances better for people experiencing obesity.” — Yolanda

“My receipt of the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship to the Your Weight Matters National Convention allowed me to reconnect with my heart for advocacy and with my friends. Attending also opened the door to tell my story to a pharmaceutical company through which my obesity medication is supplied. I would not have had that chance had I not been in Las Vegas for the Convention, where another attendee could provide the introduction.” — Donna

Broadening Reach, Deepening Impact

Every scholarship opens a door. For some, it’s a first step into a community that sees and values them. For others, it’s a deeper dive into advocacy, a chance to gain new tools for navigating care—or simply the freedom to breathe in a space free from judgment.

This year’s scholarship program stands out not just for the record number of scholarships awarded, but for whom we’re reaching. In our 20th Anniversary year, we’re proud to welcome a group that reflects greater diversity than ever before.

We know attending the Your Weight Matters National Convention isn’t always possible for everyone, especially when financial challenges stand in the way. That’s why the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship Fund exists: to remove barriers and make sure more people can experience the education, connection and support they deserve. If you believe in the power of that opportunity, we invite you to donate. Donate today to the Rob Portinga Memorial Scholarship Fund and help someone take the next step into the OAC Community: ObesityAction.org/donate/general-support/convention-scholarship-program

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