Annalise Richardson believes that education is an essential human right that enables people to live and thrive.  She feels that her parents’ success as immigrants came through education, and she strives to make the same opportunity accessible to all students.

History Teacher Dan Baldwin says that Annalise seeks to understand social structures what promote equity, justice, and peace and those that are destructive and lead to injustice and conflict.  Annalise has participated in Georgetown University’s Global Leaders Fellowship and was one of West Springfield’s delegates to the Model UN. She has also served as an intern with the League of Woman Voters and has helped to register hundreds of eligible voters.

Karen B. Young, College and Career Center Specialist, says that “Annalise is committed to making a difference in our community and has demonstrated this commitment through the activities she is involved in.”  Annalise was selected by West Potomac’s administration to be a represent of her school at the Fairfax County Student Human Rights Commission, and she was elected to serve as the chair of the organization.  The Commission, which is the only one in the region composed solely of high school students, aims to implement peace and human rights within the county.  They seek to promote a dialogue on diversity, foster a greater understanding and appreciation of differences, create exposure to human and civil rights laws, and encourage active participation in government.

The Commission’s specific plans for this year include

• Creating a volunteer activity focused on serving the community through a food and/or clothing drive.
• Planning and hosting an International Night cultural celebration.
• Consider sponsoring a Fair Housing Art Contest for students to become more aware of the need for housing.
• Leading a recruitment effort to be sure all Fairfax County highs schools are represented on the Commission.

AP Black History teacher David Houston says that “Annalise is such a cool student to have in class and I hope I have many more like her: curious, engaged, and community-minded. She has a hunger for knowledge and a readiness to tackle any challenge.”

Annalise sees education as essential for equity and peace for all people. She says that much of her energy as a student activist has been to enable students, particularly immigrants and children of immigrants, to take advantage of their educational opportunities.

Annalise plans to continue her work for peace.  She intends to study foreign affairs and hopes to join the Diplomatic Corps at the US State Department.