Annual Kevin Burberry Award Recipient Announced (KY UCEDD)

July 18, 2008

Christina Espinosa shown holding the award

The fifth annual Paul Kevin Burberry Award recipient was announced June 20, 2008 at the Human Development Institute's quarterly all staff meeting. Christina Espinosa was selected to receive the award in honor of Kevin, a student at the University, a pioneer in the field of disabilities and a consultant of the Institute. The selection committee, which included Kevin's parents, the Reverend Clyde David and Susan, selected Espinosa for her outstanding achievements, advocacy and commitment to the field of disabilities. "Kevin was such a shining star and source of inspiration for all people," Harold Kleinert, executive director of the Institute said. "We are excited to be able to offer this award as a tribute to Kevin's accomplishments not only in the classroom, but also in life." Christina completed her graduate degree in Rehabilitation Counseling at UK in 2007. She participated in HDI's Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disabilities program. In addition she worked with UK Agrability and Kentucky's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation in conducting rehabilitation technology assessments for individuals statewide and helped to develop the online assistive technology training modules for Physical Medicine residents both at UK and University of Louisville.

Espinosa is currently working on the development of an online version of HDI's Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disabilities program and also assessing consumer satisfaction and outcomes of services for people with disabilities throughout the state through HDI's Core Indicators project. "We are so fortunate to benefit from Christina's hard work and passion for the field of disabilities," Kleinert said. "It is wonderful that HDI has student trainees with so much dedication to improving the lives of people with disabilities." The Paul Kevin Burberry Award is given annually to a student who: is associated with HDI via our Graduate Certificate, Research Assistantship, practicum student, or other significant Institute involvement; has demonstrated a strong commitment to people with disabilities through university and community projects and experiences; has demonstrated the leadership qualities exemplified by Kevin's own life; and has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence in his or her chosen field of endeavor as indicated by course achievements, presentations or publications.

For more information about the award or to learn more about the Institute, click here.