Avalina DiGiallonardo (‘26) selected to represent District 33A

Avalina DiGiallonardo, Milford High School Class of 2026, was recently awarded the prestigious Lions Club District 33A 21st Century Young Ambassador Award.  DiGiallonardo was selected for this award amongst the nominees from the 49 Central Massachusetts Lions Clubs that comprise District 33A. She received this honor at the Lions Club Regional meeting on Feb. 21 in Southbridge.

Avalina DiGiallonardo, Milford High School Class of 2026, receives the Lions Club District 33A 21st Century Young Ambassador Award. Courtesy photo

The 21st Century Young Ambassador Award is presented by local area Lions Clubs for “outstanding accomplishments in the areas of community service, leadership, and scholastic achievements.”

DiGiallonardo is passionate about inclusion and Special Education. She has completed hundreds of hours of community service through Special Olympics, Unified Sports, and Best Buddies.  She has also been an active fundraiser for the Polar Plunge held at MHS last March in support of Special Olympics. She is Vice President for the MHS Best Buddies program, and this past summer attended the Best Buddies leadership conference at Indiana University. DiGiallonardo is also a varsity athlete and Honor Roll student at MHS. Following graduation, she will enroll at Westfield State University, with a major in Special Education while playing lacrosse.

“Avalina is an exceptional student leader. As Vice President of Best Buddies, she has devoted countless hours to volunteering to individuals with intellectual disabilities and actively participates in multiple Unified Sports and Special Olympics programs, building meaningful connections through teamwork and compassion,” said Special education Teacher and Best Buddies Advisor Dr. Lexi Forgit. “Her passion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others makes her an inspiring role model for everyone. Avalina is an outstanding young woman whose enthusiasm to promote inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities has greatly improved our school community.”

Milford High School Principal, Dr. Josh Otlin, shared, “Avalina is an extraordinary leader and we are so pleased to see the Lions Club recognize and honor her.  She has already made a tremendous impact at a very young age and I have no doubt that her contributions to our society will only grow as she comes into adulthood.  We are deeply proud of Avalina and thankful for the inspiration she provides to everyone who has the privilege of knowing her.”