Claire Heiden
- Brown University
- George C. Marshall High School, Falls Church, VA
Claire’s experience with bullying prompted her to contact the Virginia State delegate who had sponsored the bill created to eradicate bullying from schools. Claire was invited to share her experiences with the Committee on Health and Education in Richmond, VA, and the Governor soon signed to make the anti-bullying bill into a law. Claire has established Claire Cares, a nonprofit organization aiming “to empower others to use their voices to address bullying.” She has also interviewed school counselors, psychologists, neuropsychologists, and neurologists to reveal the negative psychological effects of bullying. Sheryl produced a documentary that shares her findings, and Claire Cares’ website provides students with a safe space to discuss their experiences with bullying. Claire is the Virginia DECA State President, a peer tutor, and a member of the varsity field hockey team. Claire is also a member of the Student Government Association’s Executive Board, and she has received the Girl Scouts Gold Award.