Media and Recognition
Through advocacy, public speaking, published commentary, and community leadership, Alyssa's Light has helped elevate conversations about brain health, mental health, concussion awareness, and youth well-being across Colorado.
MEDIA COVERAGE
New Colorado Law Aims to Protect Children After Concussions
FOX31 Denver News • July 29, 2026
Positive Athlete Awards Colorado Student-Athletes
Jeffco Transcript • June 17, 2026
Mental Health Colorado Awards 2026 Legislators and Advocates of the Year, Continuing Champions Awards
The Prowers Journal • June 12, 2026
Emily Peterson's Alyssa's Giving Garden Inspires Community Impact
Arvada Press, Jeffco Transcript • June 11, 2026
Local High Schooler Honors Her Sister’s Memory Through Charity Garden
All For Gardening • June 11, 2026
Positive Athlete Recognizes Most Positive Athletes in Colorado for the 2025–26 School Year
National Law Review • June 4, 2026
Colorado Lawmakers Consider Legislation to Train Youth Coaches on Concussion Mental Health Risks
Denver7 • April 15, 2026
Family Advocacy Inspires Alyssa's Act
Arvada Press / Jeffco Transcript • March 30, 2026
Arvada Mother Pushes Concussion Bill in Daughter's Name
9NEWS • March 4, 2026
PUBLICATIONS
The 74 Guest Commentary by Emily Peterson
July 23, 2026
Published guest commentary sharing a teen athlete’s perspective on why mental health must be part of concussion education, recovery, and not treated as an afterthought.
Denver Post Guest Commentary by Emily Peterson
March 22, 2026
Published guest commentary urging Colorado lawmakers to pass Alyssa’s Act and strengthen mental health awareness following concussions.
Alyssa Peterson Legacy Story by Stella Deslongchamp
May 23, 2025
Read Alyssa Peterson's Legacy Story for the Concussion & CTE Foundation, which shares our family's journey and the inspiration behind Alyssa's Light.
RECOGNITION
Awards recognizing leadership, advocacy, service, and community impact.
🏆Mental Health Colorado Advocate of the Year
2026 - Stella Deslongchamp & Emily Peterson
⚽Colorado Positive Athlete – State Winner
2026 - Emily Peterson
🧠NFHS Coaching Mental Wellness Certificate
2026 - Stella Deslongchamp
🌎Presidential Environmental Youth Award (PEYA) – Region 8 Winner
2026 - Emily Peterson
🌱NSHSS Earth Day Award
2026 - Emily Peterson