OAN Staff Sophia Flores
12:21 PM – Tuesday, February 24, 2026
In a heartwarming highlight of her “Be Best” initiative — which empowers America’s youth through education, technology and other support — First Lady Melania Trump is set to welcome two young women as her special guests in the First Lady’s box during President Donald Trump’s State of the Union (SOTU) address on Tuesday.
Joining her in the House chamber will be 24-year-old Sierra Burns from Greenville, South Carolina, an advocate who has praised the first lady’s foster youth-focused program. Having overcome challenges in the system, Sierra is now pursuing her Master’s in Advocacy and Social Policy while championing resources for others.
Additionally, seated beside them will be 10-year-old Everest Nevraumont from Austin, Texas, a standout student at the innovative Alpha School, where she reportedly thrives in AI-powered personalized learning.
Nevraumont is also a three-time Texas State Champion in History — showcasing her razor-sharp intellect and relentless drive — in addition to having a spot on the winning International History Bowl team, further cementing her status as a rising star in competitive academics.
“Sierra and Everest embody my ongoing mission to uplift America’s foster youth and expand opportunity for our next generation through education and technology,” the First Lady announced. “I am proud to have them join me at this historic event. Sierra and Everest represent the young people across America whose personal experience, drive, and self-motivation reflect the goals of my BE BEST Fostering the Future initiatives.”
Burns became a public advocate for foster care reform after personally experiencing life in the system herself. Her work directly aligns with the goals of the first lady’s initiative, as it focuses on protecting children and promoting their overall well-being.
As a recipient of the Melania Trump Foster Youth to Independence Program — which provides critical support, such as housing vouchers, to help young adults aging out of foster care transition to stable, independent lives — Sierra exemplifies the program’s real-world impact.
A graduate of Winthrop University, she is currently pursuing her Master’s in Advocacy and Social Policy at Furman University while serving as a Referral Specialist at Prisma Health. Through these efforts, Sierra continues her deep commitment to supporting vulnerable communities, advocating for foster youth and driving meaningful change.
The two young women powerfully embody the core issues and priorities that the first lady has championed throughout her tenure.
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