Sandy Hook / 10th Anniversary / Dear World
#Dear
Newtown.
Ten student survivors participate in the Portrait Process by Dear World to mark the 10th anniversary of the Sandy Hook shooting.
The Project
Ten survivors.
Five conversations.
In 2023, as the world marked ten years since the Sandy Hook school shooting, ten student survivors came together to share their stories. Through the Portrait Process—Dear World's signature method of portraiture and dialogue—these young people explored what they've learned, how they've healed, and what they want the world to know.
Their conversations span friendship and loss, faith and gratitude, serving their communities and reclaiming their identities beyond the tragedy. These five episodes offer a window into resilience, hope, and the enduring power of being heard.
This project was produced in partnership with the Sandy Hook community, with all participants' parents providing consent. It represents Dear World's commitment to centering the voices of those most affected by tragedy.
Meet the participants
The Episodes
Episode 01
Jackie & Audrey
On healing, friendship, and honoring the ones we've lost
Episode 02
Ashley & Lauren
On Dunkin' Donuts, our younger selves, and not taking anything for granted
Episode 03
Matthew & Rachel
On serving kids, new friendship and being 17
Episode 04
Brandon & Declan
On faith, a coin flip and feeling included
Episode 05
Cyrena & Sarah
On survivor's guilt and late night cookie dough
Methodology
The Portrait Process
Step 01
Self-portrait sketching
Students begin by sketching themselves, reflecting on introspective prompts about their experience and identity.
Step 02
Professional photography
Each participant is photographed in a studio setting, capturing a moment of genuine reflection and presence.
Step 03
Guided interviews
Peer interviews using carefully selected questions allow students to explore their experiences in conversation with one another.
"The Portrait Process is an exchange of shared experiences of loss, grief, and hope. It offers the opportunity to define oneself beyond sorrow."
— Robert X. Fogarty, Founder, Dear World
Credits
Production Team
Executive Producer & Student Organizer
Jackie Hegarty
Executive Producer
Robert X. Fogarty
Co-producers
Maya Pen
Pamela Corkey
Directors of Photography
Alex Hennen Payne
Alex Wiltz
If your people are
navigating change,
this work helps them move forward.
Let’s talk about what your moment requires.