As an advocate for teen mental health and a dedicated leader in my community, I am excited to be the University of Pittsburgh’s nominee for the Newman Civic Fellowship. Through my work as a Teen Lead Champion and Intern with the Pennsylvania Youth Advocacy Network under the Jewish Healthcare Foundation, I have embraced the responsibility of amplifying youth voices and shaping meaningful policy changes to address the pressing mental health needs of my generation. One of the most memorable pieces of my advocacy work has been collaborating with legislators and policy leaders to introduce bills for excused mental health days without a doctor’s note in Pennsylvania schools. Through surveys, petitions, and strategic lobbying efforts, I helped gather critical support for SB 886 and HB 1519, securing co-sponsors and advancing the conversation on prioritizing mental health in education systems.

The Newman Civic Fellowship aligns deeply with my aspirations to further develop my leadership and advocacy skills within my community, state, and nation. I am eager to contribute my perspective as a Fellow, learn from the diverse experiences of others, and continue to affect change in my community and beyond.