Margot Sigmone, the deputy director of early childhood programs at Children’s Aid, was recognized last month by City & State as one of 40 women going “Above & Beyond” to improve New York.
Margot, who began working at Children’s Aid two years ago, oversees early childhood programs across nine sites and supports educators through trainings and curriculum evaluation.
On March 24, she joined advocates and entrepreneurs in politics, business, and the nonprofit sector for the 11th annual Above and Beyond Gala at Sony Hall.
“It was a wonderful night,” she said. “I felt really honored to be recognized. I have such a hard time celebrating wins for myself. I just don’t like attention, but it was nice to be recognized.”
During the gala, Margot met and heard from a variety of inspirational women fighting to make New York a better place. She met Hazel Dukes, the president of the NAACP New York State Conference, who she described as “so down to earth.”
“Hazel Dukes reminded us, ‘You’re recognized as above and beyond because someone supported you in getting here. Don’t stop,’” Margot said. “’Be the mentor for the next person who’s going to be on this stage with you. Pay it forward as much as you can.’”
Moria Cappio, vice president of early childhood programs, nominated Margot because of her “integrity, accountability, and a laser-focus on our mission.”
“Margot has brought a new level of ‘high quality’ to the Early Childhood Division’s work,” Moria added. “With her focus on exceptional instruction, deep supports for children with special needs, and a coordination across all content areas, the staff, children, and families across Children’s Aid’s nine schools are better off thanks to Margot. We’re so excited that she has been honored for her incredible service.”
