2026 TXBC Scholarship Opportunities: Supporting the Next Generation of IBCLCs
The Texas Breastfeeding Coalition is pleased to announce that applications are now open for three scholarship opportunities designed to support aspiring International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) across Texas.
Whether you are completing the lactation education required for your pathway, preparing to take the IBCLC examination, or seeking comprehensive education through the GOLD Lactation Academy, these scholarships can help reduce financial barriers along your professional journey.
Helen Sullivan Scholarship
Sponsored by the Texas Association of Local WIC Directors (TALWD)
The Helen Sullivan Scholarship honors Helen Sullivan, a founding member of TXBC, former Texas WIC director, and longtime breastfeeding educator.
The scholarship provides $695 toward the IBLCE examination application fee. The award is provided following documentation of the paid examination fee and verification that the recipient successfully passed the 2026 IBCLC examination.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
Apply for the Helen Sullivan Scholarship
Patty Stone Educational Scholarship
Sponsored by the Texas Breastfeeding Coalition
Created in memory of TXBC founding member Patty Stone, this scholarship helps aspiring IBCLCs complete the education required to qualify for the IBLCE examination.
Recipients may receive up to $500 toward eligible educational expenses. Funds are distributed following documentation of the expense and completion of the educational activity.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
Apply for the Patty Stone Educational Scholarship
TXBC–GOLD Lactation Academy Scholarship
Offered in partnership with GOLD Learning
The TXBC–GOLD Lactation Academy Scholarship supports a TXBC member who is working toward eligibility for the IBCLC examination.
One recipient will receive complimentary registration for the GOLD Lactation Academy 95+ Hour Course. This comprehensive online course provides lactation-focused education to help aspiring IBCLCs strengthen their knowledge and advance along their professional pathway.
Applicants are responsible for reviewing current IBLCE requirements and confirming that the course applies to their individual examination pathway.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
Apply for the TXBC–GOLD Lactation Academy Scholarship
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be either:
A current individual member of TXBC, or
An employee of a TXBC organizational member.
Scholarship recipients are expected to remain active with TXBC and participate on a TXBC task force or committee for two years. Applications are also reviewed for compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes and subsequent relevant World Health Assembly resolutions. TXBC and TALWD board members are not eligible for the scholarships they administer.
Not a TXBC Member Yet?
Membership connects you with a statewide network of breastfeeding and lactation professionals and provides opportunities for continuing education, collaboration, advocacy, and professional engagement.
Applications Due September 30, 2026
If becoming an IBCLC is part of your professional journey, we encourage you to apply. Please also share these opportunities with colleagues, students, peer counselors, nurses, WIC staff, and others working toward the IBCLC credential.
Together, we can reduce barriers and help strengthen the lactation workforce across Texas.