Abigail Urgo Recognized for Unwavering Commitment to Inclusive Education
Abigail Urgo of North Stonington, pictured with Jennifer Keatley, Executive Director of UCP, has been named this year’s recipient of the Bette Alfiero Scholarship Award, a distinction recognizing her commitment to inclusive education. With the $2,000 scholarship, Abigail is poised to further her goal of earning a degree in Special Education, a passion kindled by both personal and professional experience.
“I’ve always been drawn to working with individuals with disabilities; with this award, I will be able to achieve my dreams to work with them,” Abigail shared when accepting the award. Her dedication to the field extends beyond academics. Through a series of internships and her role as a Cub Club aide in an after-school program, she’s worked with students experiencing developmental and behavioral changes.
“These experiences have not only prepared me to be a more effective future educator, but they also reflect the values of the Alfiero Scholarship—equity, dedication, and a belief in every child’s potential.”
Abigail’s hands-on approach highlights her belief in the transformative power of personal connections with students. She explained, “Many students with disabilities face barriers, including academic, emotional, and social, that can make schools feel overwhelming or isolating. I want to be the kind of educator who helps break down those barriers by creating a safe, inclusive environment where each student's unique strengths are celebrated. I believe in the power of individualized support, positive reinforcement, and open communication with families and specialists to help students succeed. I aim to foster a classroom culture where diversity is embraced, and students feel empowered to take risks, make progress, and advocate for themselves.”
In the future, she hopes to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and work within a district to provide behavioral support services. She thanked UCP by saying, “This generous scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies, and it will ease the financial burden on my family. Working with this community isn't just something I want to do; It's something I feel called to do, and this scholarship will set me on my journey.”