WPHS junior Hayley Brick earns second place for research on celiac disease

White Plains High School junior Hayley Brick has earned second place in the Clinical/Social Psychology category at the Tri-County Science & Technology Fair, a strong showing in a competitive field of student researchers.

Hayley’s project, “Celiac Disease, Its Comorbid Psychological Conditions, and How It Affects Quality of Life for Adolescents,” explored the often-overlooked intersection between chronic illness and mental health. Presented electronically to a panel of judges, her work examined how celiac disease can be linked to psychological challenges, and how those factors, together, shape the day-to-day experiences of young people.

Judges evaluated submissions based on creative ability, scientific thought, thoroughness, skill and clarity, and Hayley’s research stood out across all areas, earning her a place among the top projects in the region.

“It is with great pride that I announce our WPHS junior, Hayley Brick, received second place at the Tri-County Science & Technology Fair,” said Kimberly Fleming, Science Research Teacher at WPHS. “Please join me in celebrating this wonderful accomplishment.”

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten -- a protein found in wheat, barley and rye -- triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine and often leads to a variety of gastrointestinal and other health problems. Among them is malabsorption, which in children can affect growth and development.

Hayley’s recognition highlights not only her academic skill, but also her commitment to tackling meaningful, real-world issues to bring greater awareness to how physical health conditions can impact emotional well-being during adolescence.