Born with food allergies, Elise Buellesbach grew up avoiding many of the foods enjoyed by others. She learned to navigate her allergies through grade school and activities from the start. But after high school graduation, Elise faced a new challenge in her journey: college. Hear how she is channeling her passion with confidence and determination to be a voice for change to make life safer for herself, for others in colleges and universities, and for those living with food allergies across the country.


Elise is studying political science at American University in Washington DC with the hope of creating systemic change and building a more inclusive world. She started working with FARE as a member of the Teen Advisory Group (TAG) in 2019. She has interned with FARE and is an active member of the food allergy community, working on lobbying initiatives, building the Food Allergy Research Caucus, expanding the FARE College Search Tool, and collaborating on the annual Courage at Congress Fly-In. Elise loves to share her food allergy story and help others thrive. When Elise is not in class or immersed in politics you can find her in the pool or enjoying life in Washington D.C.

Find Elise on social media platforms @e_buellesbach