2024 - 2026 TRIMM Scholars

My experience in the Mild/Moderate program has been an adventure. As a first-generation college student and first generation American, I didn’t know what to expect, but with the help of my amazing professors, I was able to realize my potential. Aside from my supportive professors, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish what I did without the TRIMM scholarship. TRIMM made it possible for me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about how I would pay for college. The Special Education Department is very supportive, and it was an honor to study with the professors I had. I am excited to take all the skills I learned and apply them in my future classroom!

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to school after working as a paraprofessional for two years. Before that, I was working in sports, and while I valued that experience, I felt called to make a change. Making the decision to switch careers and pursue education has truly been the best thing that has ever happened to me. The TRIMM program gave me the chance to grow both personally and professionally. It provided the support, preparation, and confidence I needed to step into my own classroom feeling ready. Now that I am teaching, I feel more than prepared—I feel grounded in strong instructional practices and deeply committed to serving my students well. I am so thankful for the opportunity and for the people who believed in me along the way!

I have truly enjoyed my experience in the Mild to Moderate Special Education Master's program. As a current general education teacher, this program has pushed my thinking and helped me grow in ways that directly impact my classroom practice. I have learned so much about supporting diverse learners, using evidence-based strategies, and viewing students through a more inclusive and strengths-based lens. I am incredibly grateful for my cohort and my TRIMM buddies. Having such a supportive group has made this experience both meaningful and fun. I also want to thank our advisors, Shar and Julia, who go above and beyond to support us and create a program that feels both rigorous and welcoming. Finally, I am thankful for my wife, who encouraged me to pursue my master’s degree and continues to support me every step of the way.

I have loved my time in the M/M Master's program. I would never have been able to get my master’s degree at such a prestigious school without the TRIMM grant. The special education department has been phenomenal. The professors are knowledgeable and kind, encouraging me to be my best. I will forever be grateful for my University of Utah family.

What an incredibly positive, and life-changing experience this program has been! It has transformed me professionally and personally in ways I couldn't have imagined before. The program instructors are gold-standard models of balancing support for us as students while also requiring high standards - guiding us to become the best versions of ourselves. I feel lucky to have been a part of something that I believe can make a difference in the world. Thank you!

I am currently a Special Education Resource Math teacher at Bear River High School. Over the past ten years, I have taught in the Chinese Dual-Language Immersion program in the Box Elder School District. These experiences have strengthened my passion for both Chinese language instruction and special education, and I am grateful to be enrolled in the University of Utah’s SPED program, where supportive instructors and classmates have helped me grow professionally and confidently. As a recipient of the USBE TRIMM program, I appreciate the financial support that has allowed me to focus on my studies and students. I am also thankful for Dr. Kiuhara's guidance in planning my academic path, as well as the help from the instructors in each of my classes. Through this program, I have developed stronger skills in advocacy, inclusion, and data-driven instruction. As I approach graduation, I remain committed to supporting students with disabilities and look forward to continued growth and service in education.

The Trimm scholarship has made a meaningful difference in my journey toward becoming a special education teacher. It has eased financial stress so I can focus fully on learning, growing, and gaining hands-on experience with students who need strong advocates. I'm incredibly grateful for the support and even more excited to carry it forward by making a lasting, positive impact in the Special Education field and in the lives of students and families I will serve.

The University of Utah's Master's in Special Education program has provided me with the practical skills and real- world experience needed to be effective from day one. The Trimm scholarship has allowed me to return to school and recommit to a field that aligns with my passion and purpose.

The Mild/mod program has been amazing, and I feel like I've learned a ton about special education in the last two years. The professors are super knowledgeable and are great at bringing their own personal classroom experiences into our lectures. The UU is an incredible school; the Mild/Mod program is top notch, and I'm proud to say I've gotten both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Utah.

Being part of the Mild/Moderate Special Education program has been incredibly meaningful to me.  I spent 14 years as a general education teacher, where I saw many students struggling and wanted to better understand how to support them. That experience led me to pursue special education so I could better meet the needs of diverse learners. Special education is more than my career -- it’s something I truly care about. As a special educator, I apply what I’ve learned every day. This program has helped me become more intentional, reflective, and confident in supporting students academically, behaviorally, and emotionally, and it has strengthened my belief that every student can grow with the right support. Receiving TRIMM funding has allowed me to continue my education without financial stress and reminds me that others believe in this work. I feel honored to be part of the Class of 2026 and grateful for the opportunity to grow and make a meaningful difference in my students’ lives.

Without the TRIMM funding I wouldn't have been able pursue a degree in Special Education. With this funding I can make my dreams of helping students with disabilities become a reality. I will be forever grateful for this opportunity and support.