Danbury High School Sophomore Contestant In International United Miss Scholarship Pageant

Danbury High School student and Miss Connecticut Jr. Teen Kaitlyn Klampert will compete for the title of International United Miss Junior Teen in July after being crowned the state winner last fall.

The International United Miss Scholarship Program competition will be held July 14-21 in Galloway, New Jersey. The program is dedicated to celebrating America’s future leaders and equipping them with lifelong skills. Each year the pageant awards more than $500,000 nationally in scholarships and other prizes. The program is based on inner beauty, poise and presentation with emphasis on volunteering in the community, developing self-confidence, learning good sportsmanship, and setting and achieving personal goals.

Kaitlyn is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. As a toddler, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Eight years ago, she underwent extensive surgery and physical therapy to learn to walk again.

“I embraced my recovery with dignity and grace, as I knew there were many things in my future that I wanted to pursue,” Kaitlyn said. “Six months to date of the surgery, I was cheerleading, a few months later I participated in track and field. In December 2014, I danced in the ‘Nutcracker.’”

As a high school student, Kaitlyn is actively involved in Girl Scouts and musical theater. She is also an ambassador for Shriner’s Children Hospital, making guest appearances at fundraisers.

“Being a contestant in pageants has been a lifelong dream for me,” Kaitlyn said. “In doing what I am doing I hope other people with disabilities can learn something from me if given the opportunity.”