RCB senior Brianna Cutright recognized for youth tobacco-prevention work and congressional briefing

The Harrison County Board of Education on Wednesday recognized Brianna Cutright, a senior at RCB High School, for her leadership in youth tobacco-prevention efforts and for representing local youth at a congressional briefing in Washington, D.C. Cutright said she traveled to the briefing on July 23, 2025, and met with staff in Senator Capito’s office.

Cutright told the board that state and federal funding cuts led to the RAISE program’s closure as of June 30, 2025, and that the loss has reduced local youth prevention supports. “This is the first year since sixth grade that I haven't actually been involved in RAISE,” she said. She said RAISE opened doors to work with other organizations, including the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and a youth advisory board for Catch Your Bread, and that the Washington trip included a panel appearance with other media experts in tobacco control.

The board presented Cutright with a certificate recognizing her leadership and advocacy. A board member praised her as “an inspiration… for the kids here in the county,” and thanked her teacher and family for supporting her work.

Cutright described a personal motivation: her grandfather was a lifelong smoker who quit after encouragement from family. “If he can do it, then I know that anybody can do it,” she said, adding that resources for quitting are more limited since local programs closed. She said she wants to keep speaking to young people about the health risks of vaping, e-cigarettes and tobacco.

The recognition was presented during the board’s regular meeting; there was no formal policy action tied to the presentation.