“A disability does not define a person.”

That’s the message Dillon Dean-Frazier of Old Lyme, a Vista Vocational & Life Skills Center student Frazier emphasized in the letter that won him a $2,000 scholarship from BD Remodeling & Restoration, a residential architecture firm with offices in Connecticut and New York.

Despite being diagnosed with dystonia, a neurological movement disorder, Dean-Frazier strives to live life to the fullest and hopes to inspire others with disabilities to follow their dreams.

“No matter what my goals are, I know that if I work hard, I will accomplish what I set out to do,” said Dean-Frazier. “I do not let my dystonia define me.”

Dillon’s ultimate goal is to become an independent member of the shoreline community. This is what he works toward every day at Vista, where he learns valuable employment and life skills. Outside the classroom, he serves as an elected member of Vista’s Student Advisory Council. He stays active through sports, including wheelchair basketball, softball and soccer. He also enjoys the performing arts.

Vista is a nationally accredited community-based education program for individuals with disabilities.