Summer Balfanz is a Roseville, Minnesota honor roll student who excels at sports and has competed on the junior varsity cross-country running and Nordic ski teams. Also a member of her high school’s speech team, she has participated in an overseas tour that took in several capitals in Scandinavia. Summer Balfanz volunteers with Roseville Parks & Recreation and assists with the removal of invasive species. She has also volunteered with the Twin Cities Marathon and helped prepare and clean up the marathon site, along with providing water and encouragement to runners.
Ms. Balfanz’ community contributions extend to serving as a student coalition member with Minnesotans for a Smoke Free Generation. She organizes local outreach activities, including education and advocacy aimed at reducing vaping and smoking among teens. She has designed posters and promotional materials, including artwork featured in the nonprofit’s marketing campaign. Representing her city on a statewide committee, she has also lobbied state representatives.
Ms. Balfanz is an avid traveler who has visited national parks including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and the Badlands. When she visited San Diego, she had the opportunity to stay in the historic Hotel Del Coronado and surf at Coronado Beach.