Often times, athletes will talk about the player that pushed them and inspired them to expand what they thought they could achieve. For many, including myself, Courtney was that bar to reach for.

Growing up as a young, opinionated, aspiring politician, Courtney was someone I respected immensely and inspired me to do more. Even when we were in middle school, I greatly looked forward to watching how he’d change the world for the rest of his life. You could sense was going to do great things.

When he was running for a statewide position in Youth and Government, I asked him if he wanted to run for actual office some day. He replied, “I think I’d prefer being a Supreme Court Justice”. Reminder that we were in high school. I told him if anyone I knew could do it he could, but he’d probably have to buy shoes other than flip flops first. Later on he proved he didn’t need a fancy title (or closed-toed shoes) to fight for what’s right, leaving everything he was involved with better than he found it.

I’m so grateful to have been able to vote for him at least once in my life (he of course won his Y&G election). This photo was taken right after he walked off stage from accepting his position, and you can tell because we were both CHEESING. He even commented that he liked his smile in a photo for once. High school is a difficult time for many, and I definitely struggled. I can truly say that the people I met in Youth and Government changed (and may be saved) my life. I’m sure others can attest to a similar feeling. Like a family, the successes of other members of the Miller fam felt like our own success.

Although we didn’t keep in touch after high school, I continued to admire his drive from afar- unsurprised by every new accomplishment. I thought to myself, I hope I get to work with him someday. After graduation I saw (unsurprisingly) that he was also in Washington, D.C. and reached out to catch up. Between the hustle of post grad work and life we never got the chance to meet up before he returned to California, but I was determined to catch him the next time.

I’m devastated I won’t get that chance. Our last conversation ended with, “It’s been so long!”. Grieving can be difficult, it can feel selfish. I wanted to take this time to share what I would have liked to say, and I hope others can find comfort in this process like I have reading your own stories.

I wish I had the chance to tell him how he was the first person I ever knew to come out publicly as bisexual, and how he was a part of inspiring me to explore my own queerness. He was living proof that by simply being yourself you could make a difference. I would have shared that growing up, he taught me life lessons without me realizing, and how I couldn’t wait to see the incredible things he’d do. I continue to look forward to his legacy.

My heart goes out to his family, friends and all those who he inspired, which I know is many. I am encouraged by the fact that I know his impact will continue to be felt for many years to come. If anyone is interested in generating action around something in his honor, please reach out to me as I would love to support and participate in any way I can.

We need more Courtney Brousseau’s in the world, and sadly there will only ever be one. Rest In Peace. Rest in Power.

— Kristen Armellini