$5000 Curtis and Loralie Mildner
2024 Windham High School
“I actively champion equality and inclusion.”
Sophia recognized the social divide in the separation of classes between students with and without disabilities and took it upon herself to bridge the gap. She founded a Unified Sports Club at Windham High School and fought tirelessly to expand its activities. Unified Basketball pairs students with intellectual disabilities (Unified Student Athlete) with student partners (Unified Student Partner) without intellectual disabilities. Students make connections and work together. Coed training opportunities are a quick path to friendship and understanding.
Sophia’s commitment to champion equality and inclusion shows in her many activities, including volunteering at Camp Jabberwocky, the oldest sleep-away camp in the U.S. for students with disabilities, for four summers. As an active member of her school’s Civil Rights club, Sophia designed a mural honoring school shooting victims.
Sophia led a Spread the Word to End the Word campaign to end use of the R-word at her school. It was strategically scheduled to end on the same day as Unified Basketball Senior Night and resulted in the largest turnout for any Unified game in the school’s history. She described the atmosphere as electric, filling the gym with joy and camaraderie, and creating an unforgettable experience. It became for her the number one moment of high school, a testament to the transformative power of unity, inclusion, and the positive impact we make together when we stand together.
Sophia will attend the University of Michigan.