SCALe Spotlight: Heresa LaForce

Shaped by Experience, Driven by Purpose

Sustainability is everywhere — though often hidden in plain sight. For student Heresa LaForce, it's more than just recycling plastic cups. It’s about being mindful of the products we put on our body, choosing healthier, environmentally friendly alternatives, and making sustainable living more affordable and accessible to everyone. For LaForce, sustainable menstrual products are a priority.

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Through Heresa's Eyes

LaForce, a Duke University graduate student studying Population Health Sciences, views everyday life through a different lens. LaForce sees her surroundings as a living classroom—and a personal opportunity to contribute to Duke’s Climate Commitment. When she was an undergraduate, LaForce was introduced to reusable period products like the Diva Cup and other reusable menstruation products. “I was always quite aware of how wasteful single use menstrual products are,” said LaForce. “You can easily run through many products.”

LaForce expressed that as an undergraduate she was given free menstrual products, and she interned at the Women's Center; both experiences opened her eyes to a broader issue. She realized that the lack of diverse menstrual product options may disproportionately impact those without a disposable income. That realization sparked a passion to address inequity and take action in a space often overlooked.

Menstruation Matters Begins

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With this, the project Menstruation Matters was born; a sustainability and period health event held on Thursday, April 10, 2025. The event featured a presentation on the menstrual cycle, an overview of various sustainable menstrual products, information about different product brands, and free products for attendees to take home. “I know people nowadays are very conscious about the material content that is in the products they put on their bodies,” said LaForce.

The products were carefully selected to support women- and minority-founded businesses that promote sustainability by reducing disposable menstrual waste. With the help of a SCALe mini-grant, LaForce was able to provide attendees with free samples of sustainable menstrual products—allowing students to try reusable options without the financial barrier. The funding also supported educational materials and outreach, helping to create a welcoming space for learning and dialogue. The event drew 31 attendees and sparked meaningful conversations around menstrual equity and sustainability. 

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Menstruation Matters not only raised awareness about the environmental and financial impacts of single-use products, but also empowered attendees to make more informed, sustainable choices in their everyday lives.

Now pursuing a graduate degree in Population Health Sciences, Heresa believes in the importance of health equity work. “In Population Health Sciences, we look at how different issues affect certain segments of our society,” said LaForce.

LaForce is particularly passionate about finding community-based solutions that will prioritize human wellbeing and environmental responsibility. Whether in the classroom, through advocacy, or in her future career, she hopes to amplify underrepresented voices and push for policies that make everyday necessities—like menstrual products—safe, sustainable, and accessible to all.

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This article is part of the SCALe Spotlight series hosted by the Office of Climate and Sustainability. The Sustainability and Climate Applied Learning (SCALe) Spotlight stories celebrate Duke students, staff, faculty and community partners who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and climate education through applied teaching, learning and action.

Nominate someone today to shine the SCALe Spotlight on them!

Article written by Kennedi Marks, Charmaine McKissick-Melton Communications Fellow