New Orleans, Louisiana (July 13, 2025): The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) has presented sixty thousand dollars in cash awards to individuals and organizations who are a positive force in the lives of blind people and whose work advances the goal of helping transform their dreams into reality. At the NFB's annual convention, the eighteenth annual Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards honored four exceptional recipients who are transforming education, public engagement, and access to information for blind Americans.

The awards included 25,000 dollars to Casey Robertson, a dedicated educator and curriculum innovator whose work has transformed Braille literacy instruction. As lead instructor at Louisiana Tech University's program for teachers of blind students, Robertson not only created the Natural Order of Contractions (NOC), a highly effective Braille teaching method, but also offers a free 15-week course to parents and paraprofessionals, conducted entirely in her spare time. Her training empowers families and school staff to support blind children with daily Braille literacy, creating lasting change. Hundreds of professionals and family members have already taken the course, and some paraprofessionals have even pursued certification to become teachers of blind students themselves.

Dr. Mika Baugh and the Sexual Health Education, Research, and Training (SHERT) initiative also received 25,000 dollars. SHERT is a blind-led, research-informed project addressing a long-ignored gap in comprehensive sexual health education for blind youth and adults. Through interactive events featuring Braille and tactile graphics, real-world medical models, and trained blind facilitators, SHERT empowers blind individuals to make informed choices about their sexual health and relationships. The project debuted at the 2024 NFB National Convention and received overwhelming praise for creating a judgment-free, accessible space for blind people to explore and understand human sexuality. SHERT’s work has already laid the foundation for curricula that could be used in adult rehabilitation centers and youth education programs across the country.

Sam Seavey, creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel and podcast, received a 5,000 dollar award for using accessible media to educate, empower, and connect the blind and low-vision community. With tens of thousands of followers and over a decade of content, Seavey's product reviews, tutorials, and motivational content demystify access technology and break down complex concepts into relatable, actionable guidance. His videos offer a hopeful and entertaining perspective on blindness, reaching those who might not yet be connected to blindness services. Through his authentic voice and humor, Sam has built a trusted platform that helps thousands gain confidence and independence.

The National Federation of the Blind of Indiana was recognized with a 5,000 dollar award for the NFB-NEWSLINE Indiana Television Show, hosted and co-hosted by blind individuals Lee Martin and Florence Myers. Airing for over a decade, the show has reached millions through commercial broadcasts and online distribution, featuring in-depth interviews with blind advocates, lawmakers, and leaders. It has helped reshape public perceptions of blindness while raising awareness of the NFB-NEWSLINE® service. The show’s town halls, feature segments, and training initiatives have empowered hundreds of blind individuals and inspired similar programs nationwide.

Dr. Jacob W. Bolotin (1888–1924) was the world’s first physician who was blind from birth. He overcame the low expectations of his time to become a distinguished medical professional and a mentor to others. The National Federation of the Blind honors his legacy through these awards, which highlight efforts that continue his work of breaking down barriers and enabling blind people to live the lives they want.

“Dr. Jacob Bolotin was a pioneer who overcame discrimination to become a renowned physician without the benefit of modern support systems,” said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind. “We honor his memory by recognizing individuals and organizations who reflect his spirit—raising expectations, breaking down barriers, and empowering blind people to achieve their dreams.”

The Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards Program is made possible in part by a bequest from Dr. Bolotin’s late nephew and niece-in-law, Alfred and Rosalind Perlman. Income from the Alfred and Rosalind Perlman Trust is distributed to the National Federation of the Blind and the Santa Barbara Foundation to support the program. For more information about the Dr. Jacob Bolotin Awards Program—including details about past winners and eligibility criteria—please visit www.nfb.org/bolotin.