What I Am Grateful For; a Speech About Inclusion and Advocacy

What I Am Grateful For; a Speech About Inclusion and Advocacy

November 16th, 2025

Transcript from speech:

Hi everyone, my name is Abby Tessmann, and I’m really thankful to be here today.

When I think about what I’m grateful for, the first thing that comes to mind is the chance to use my voice to make a difference. I’m grateful that I get to help people understand that individuals with disabilities are capable, smart, and deserve to be treated like adults. Through my work as an Ability Ambassador, I get to share that message with businesses and community members — showing them what real inclusion looks like.

I’ve been a self-advocate for several years, and it’s changed my life. I’ve learned how to speak up for myself and for others, and I’ve had the chance to see how education and understanding can change the way people see disability. When I visit workplaces and do our “What Not to Do” and “What to Do” skits, I can actually see people’s faces light up with understanding — that moment when they get it. That’s what keeps me going.

I’m also grateful for this community, because it’s where I’ve found belonging and support. This community has given me confidence and opportunities to grow — like teaching people how to ride the city bus through my business, Transit2GO. Watching someone gain independence and freedom by learning a new route or using public transit for the first time — that’s what belonging feels like to me.

To me, “Belong” means being accepted for who you are and feeling safe to be yourself. “Connect” means forming real relationships based on kindness and respect. And “Inspire” means sharing your story so others feel brave enough to share theirs too.

This community has helped me feel all three — and I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to believe in their own abilities.

Thank you so much for letting me share what I’m grateful for today.

How college impacted my life until the present day.

How College Shaped My Journey

College was a turning point in my life, not just academically but in discovering my passion for accessibility, advocacy, and education. Through Edgewood College’s Cutting-Edge Program, I successfully completed all the requirements to earn a Para-Professional Certificate. This achievement wasn’t just about coursework—it was about proving to myself and others that individuals with disabilities can thrive in higher education when given the right support and opportunities.

Earning this certificate required dedication, including completing 48 educational-based courses and extensive practicum hours. These hands-on experiences broadened my horizons and reinforced mypassion for working with individuals with disabilities. The practicum placements allowed me to gain real-world experience, develop professional skills, and build the confidence needed to navigate different environments. Whether assisting in classrooms, working directly with students, or observing various teaching methods, each experience added to my understanding of what true inclusion looks like.But my journey would not have been possible without peer mentors and natural supports—whether in school, on the job, or in daily life. These individuals played a crucial role in my success by encouraging me, guiding me through challenges, and helping me develop the skills needed to advocate for myself. College wasn’t just about academics; it was also about developing independence and learning how to navigatelife with the support of a strong community.

Before college, conversations about higher education weren’t a priority in my educational planning. It wasn’t until my senior year of high school that college was seriously discussed as an option. Looking back, I wish these conversations had started earlier, and I believe that all students—regardless of ability—should be encouraged to explore higher education as a possibility. With the right support, guidance, and belief in one’s potential, success is possible.

My experiences in college ultimately shaped my career path. During this time, I discovered the power of accessible transportation and how vital it is for independence. What started as learning to ride the buson my own turned into a passion for helping others gain that same freedom. In 2015, I launched Transit2GO as a pilot program through Edgewood College, teaching individuals with disabilities how to navigate public transit. The overwhelmingly positive feedback fueled my decision to turn it into an independent business in 2018, allowing me to train others and advocate for accessibility on a broader scale.

Since then, I have continued to educate businesses, organizations, and individuals on the importance of inclusion—whether in the workplace, in transportation, or in education. My college journey taught me that advocacy isn’t just about speaking up for yourself; it’s about paving the way for others to have opportunities that might not have existed before. Today, I remain committed to breaking down barriers, shifting perceptions, and ensuring that accessibility and inclusion are prioritized in every space.

What started as an effort to complete a college certificate turned into something much greater—a lifelong mission to empower others to reach their full potential. And none of it would have been possible without the peer mentors and natural supports who believed in me every step of the way.

Brava Magazine Article March 2022