ISE Award Winner a Fierce Advocate for Mental Health

Photo of Claire Barbrack
Claire Barbrack, Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Student of the Year Award Winner.(Image/Colin Huang)

Claire Barbrack successfully overcame a difficult sophomore year to be named the 2023 Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Student of the Year.

College life can be incredibly challenging. Just persevering through it all to finish your degree on time is no mean feat.

Claire Barbrack, B.S. ISE ’23, feels this deeply. Graduating is her proudest achievement.

During her sophomore year, Barbrack found herself dealing with poor mental and physical health and a restrictive eating disorder that required outpatient support and then residential treatment. She spoke up and sought help, and with the support of her loved ones, friends and professors, Barbrack overcame a difficult year and completed her degree on time.

Last month, she was honored at the Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering Spring Banquet, where she was presented with the 2023 ISE Student of the Year Award.

In her recovery, Barbrack is passionate about speaking out about mental health issues and raising awareness of eating disorders, encouraging those who are struggling to reach out and seek the support they need.

Read more about Claire’s story