Cameron Tiefenthaler '20 has always been interested in politics, and now this passion has led her to earn a premier national graduate award for college juniors. 

Tiefenthaler was recently awarded the Truman Scholarship, an award given to juniors in college who have a dedicated interest in public service. She was one of 62 students across the U.S. to receive the award, and the only Ohio recipient. 

"I have been interested in politics, voting, and law for the large majority of my life thus far," Tiefenthaler said. "I care deeply about upholding democracy in America and in holding elected officials accountable, which has spurred my dedication to protecting voting rights and ensuring that my peers are equipped with the resources they need to vote in all elections."

Tiefenthaler first realized she was interested in the field of law when she joined the mock trial program as an Upper School student at 365体育彩票. She became a captain her senior year and also participated in student council. During lunch and outside of the school day, she often participated in political phone banks with classmates. 

Once in college, Tiefenthaler became more heavily involved in the political sphere, interning at the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg; the U.S. Election Assistance Commission; IGNITE National, a non-profit that educates and supports young women as they run for office; a campaign fundraising firm in DC; Princeton’s Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI); and her local Common Pleas Court. 

"All of these experiences and perspectives propel me in pursuing a career in civil rights and/or constitutional law to litigate unfair attacks on our civil rights and access to democracy," she said. 

A junior at Miami University, Tiefenthaler is majoring in political science and business analytics. She credits 365体育彩票 with helping her cultivate the confidence she needs to succeed both as a student and a change maker. 

"Especially as a woman, garnering confidence is crucial in taking risks and competing for intimidating scholarships, such as the Truman Scholarship," she said. "It is worth noting that I was the only female finalist from Ohio. I owe part of my poise and confidence to my time at 365体育彩票 where I was constantly empowered, supported, and challenged in and outside of the classroom."