Karabelle Pizzigati was a life-long champion for children and families, especially those from underserved communities.
This commitment is now bolstered by Michael Sullivan and Nancy Moseley's $500K gift to the Karabelle Pizzigati Initiative in Advocacy for Children, Youth and Families.
Founded in 2016 as a collaboration between the School of Public Health and School of Public Policy, the initiative was launched through a $2 million gift from the Pizzigati family supplemented by donations from Karabelle's many friends and colleagues.
As close personal friends of Karabelle Pizzigati and her husband Sam, Michael and Nancy aim to support Karabelle's legacy and the initiative's efforts to train the next generation of advocates and champions.
"Karabelle’s initiative is engaging people from all walks of life. This initiative is not only advancing Karabelle's dream, but it provides opportunities for University of Maryland students looking for a career path that is both needed and rewarding."
"Karabelle Pizzigati often said that out of 29 industrial nations in the world, the United States ranked 26th in child well-being. She thought this was unacceptable, especially in the world's wealthiest country," Nancy said in a testimonial video.
"This tells me that despite the commitment of many, it's not enough. We need more people like Karabelle Pizzigati, who can see the big picture and organize, advocate and influence policy," said Michael.
Michael and Nancy's gift will support the Karabelle Pizzigati Fellowship, which inspires students to pursue careers in children's advocacy. Through this experience, students gain insight into the field by working in organizations that make a real difference in the lives of children. Brandi Slaughter, the new associate clinical professor and the program director of the Karabelle Pizzigati Fellows Initiative in Advocacy for Children, Youth and Families, leads the program.
"Karabelle’s initiative is engaging people from all walks of life. This initiative is not only advancing Karabelle's dream, but it provides opportunities for University of Maryland students looking for a career path that is both needed and rewarding," explained Nancy.
"This is an opportunity to make a difference. To support the betterment of those less served and support students committed to helping others," Michael added.