A Moorestown, New Jersey native, Blair Hornstine has faced vehement adversity in her life, yet has always come out on the other side a stronger, more informed human being. In 1998, around the age of 13, Ms. Hornstine was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition that virtually obliterated any energy she had to perform even simple daily tasks. She was awarded the opportunity to study with a Special Education Team who was trained to provide her with education materials equivalent to those she would have received had she been able to attend school. This arrangement was fair according to the law and seemed to be agreeable for both Ms. Hornstine and her high school administrators, that is, until graduation neared in 2003.
Blair Hornstine’s performance during high school was nothing short of brilliant. Blair’s GPA was a staggering 4.6894-the highest GPA in her class of over 350 students. She was the rightful valedictorian. However, the school superintendent had other ideas. There was another student he felt should receive the recognition of valedictorian as well.
Ms. Hornstine and her family filed a lawsuit against the Moorestown Board of Education and the Superintendent for denying her the right to be sole valedictorian because they thought she had received “special treatment.” Although she has at times been portrayed as a spoiled child, Ms. Hornstine did not want to file the suit to gain media attention or acclaim; rather she wanted to stand up for what was right. After a grueling and tiresome case, Ms. Hornstine was victorious and was allowed to be Moorestown High School’s valedictorian of 2003.
Blair Hornstine's dream is to become an attorney and defend the rights of those who do not have a voice in the community. She is scheduled to graduate with her Juris Doctor in 2010.
Ms. Blair Hornstine’s triumph of attaining the role of valedictorian of her high school, despite the obstacles presented to her by a chronic illness, stands as an example to other special needs students wishing to fulfill their intellectual goals—even if their physical capabilities at times make these goals seem unattainable.
Blair Hornstine has dealt with the painful ramifications of an immune deficiency and chronic fatigue condition for a number of years. Her condition made concentration difficult and often made traditional schooling impossible. Isolated from many of her peers, Blair Hornstine could have shrunk into the shadows, but instead, she now stands out as an example to others.
Blair Hornstine has been extremely active in her community, spearheading fundraising and renovation projects in nearby neighborhoods and even foreign countries. She received a Master’s degree in Classical Studies and is currently slated to receive her Doctorate of Jurisprudence in May 2010.
Ms. Blair Hornstine is anything but a wallflower, and she has consistently let her voice and her perspective be heard. As a future legal professional particularly interested in Public Interest Law, Blair Hornstine is certain to be a continued public servant and valued community leader.
Blair Hornstine
+
: Blair Hornstine
feed for this page
Get your OpenID today!
