Women’s Group Names KO’s Claudia Udolf Its Young Philanthropist of the Year

In a Hartford Marriott ballroom filled with more than 500 people, the Aurora Foundation honored Kingswood Oxford senior Claudia Udolf as its Young Philanthropist of the Year on Oct. 16, in recognition of her extraordinary community service and the way in which she "inspires others to join her in her efforts," according to the group.

"Claudia is an ambitious, enterprising young woman who gives back, unselfishly, to her community," the Aurora Foundation said.

Udolf delivered stirring remarks at the breakfast, at which visionary global philanthropist Jennifer Buffett, president and co-founder of the NoVo Foundation, was the keynote speaker. JoAnn Price, co-founder and managing partner of Fairview Capital, was named the Woman Philanthropist of the Year.

“Claudia embodies KO's core values and the ideal we strive for in all of our students,” said Head of School Dennis Bisgaard. “We are so proud of her accomplishments and grateful that an important organization like Aurora recognizes her extraordinary altruism.”

Udolf, the daughter of Robert and Danielle Udolf of West Hartford, has been volunteering extensively with the Ronald McDonald House in Springfield, MA, since 2007. She and her sister, Samantha Udolf '12, have also raised more than $54,000 for the House through their web site, www.samsraceforaplace.com, and other grass-roots efforts.

But Udolf, an honor roll student, is active on the KO campus, as well: She is a senior advisor to Upper Prep students, the co-editor of epic, KO's literary magazine, and captain of the Girls' Varsity Squash team. In May 2013, she received the St. Lawrence University Book Award, given to a Form 5 student who has displayed a significant commitment to community service.

And in March 2013, the Udolf sisters were honored at the 22nd annual Gala benefiting the Ronald McDonald House. “Sam and Claudia have established themselves as spokespersons, hands-on volunteers, fundraisers and friends,” said Jennifer Putnam, Executive Director of the House. “They are a shining example of the difference two people can make when they set their minds to a goal and pursue it with all their heart and soul.”

“Care beyond self” is a core value at Kingswood Oxford, an independent, co-ed, college prep day school located just steps from Blue Back Square in West Hartford. Interviews for September 2014 enrollment began on Sept. 23; for an appointment, email admissions@k-o.org. Prospective families are invited to an Upper School Open House on Nov. 3 and a Middle School Open House on Nov. 17; visit www.kingswoodoxford.org/admissions to register.