Aniston Barnette is a proud Tennessean and native of the close-knit community of Bristol, Tennessee. She is an 18-year-old freshman at Palm Beach Atlantic University, pursuing her next academic chapter after earning her Associate’s Degree in General Science from Northeast State Community College. A driven and accomplished student, Aniston graduated as a Valedictorian from Tennessee High School, where she was also a dedicated member of the girls’ golf team.

With a heart for service and heart health advocacy, Aniston was named the 2024 National Teen of Impact winner by the American Heart Association—a title earned through her remarkable efforts in raising over $65,000 for heart health initiatives. Her advocacy work is not just impressive in numbers but in lasting impact. Aniston has spent the past year, and continues, championing heart wellness across Tennessee and beyond, particularly among youth.

She is the founder of Heart Strong, her signature initiative that empowers teens to embrace a lifestyle rooted in physical activity, mental resilience, and emotional well-being. Heart Strong promotes habits like daily movement, healthy eating, regular heart screenings, and CPR education—all while instilling the message that every young person is worth getting their heart checked.

Grounded in her small-town roots, Aniston remains committed to bringing awareness and availability of heart health education to communities across the state. From teaching hands-only CPR to working with schools on emergency preparedness plans, lobbying on Capitol Hill for increased CPR and AED access in schools, or leading interactive heart health challenges—Aniston is actively turning her mission into movement. When she’s not serving her community, you’ll find her enjoying quiet moments in the Tennessee mountains with family, reflecting the importance she places on balance and connection.

Aniston believes that true wellness isn’t about being perfect—it’s about progress, self-worth, and showing up consistently. As Miss Tennessee Teen USA, she is honored to serve her Volunteer State and looks forward to a year dedicated to amplifying youth voices, advancing heart health awareness, and reminding teens everywhere that their heart matters.