The power of voice

Running for public office had always been on her bucket list, and now it’s reality for Virginia House of Delegates member Destiny LeVere Bolling, ’16.

During Bolling’s sophomore year, the political science and international affairs double major put her ambition into practice. She participated in a Sophomore Scholars in Residence program focused on combating human trafficking. This solidified her resolve to pursue a career in public policy. “It was an incredible hands-on experience that furthered my education outside of the classroom,” she said.

After graduation, Bolling became the communications director for Virginia AFL-CIO, which prioritizes the needs of labor unions and working families. There, she got a behind-the-scenes view of what it takes to be a legislator. “We were going down to the General Assembly, sitting in committees, and meeting with legislators,” she said. “I got continuously frustrated with how things are handled and felt that I could take a more active role.”

A delegate seat opened in 2023, and Bolling jumped at the opportunity. With the support of Emerge Virginia—a nonprofit that supports Democratic women running for office—along with her family and friends, Bolling won the seat and began her two-year term in January 2024.

In her first year, Bolling passed legislation she feels personally connected to, including a bill that offers training for emergency response professionals to properly care for individuals with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. “There are a lot of older people in my district, and dementia runs very prominently in my family, so I’m thankful we can offer this important training,” she said.

“The best part about this role is getting to practice my favorite word: altruism,” Bolling said. “I wholeheartedly believe in putting people before myself. I love being able to use the power of my vote and my voice to create positive change.”