WESTPHALIA — “Living a drug- and alcohol-free lifestyle is important to me because it helps me stay focused on my goals and make responsible decisions for my future,” said Fatima senior Kaedyn Rehagen, whose focus on goals, responsibility, and long-term direction led to his selection as the Osage County Anti-Drug Community Action Team (OC-ADCAT) Student of the Month. “I want to build a successful career, continue my education, and be someone my family and community can be proud of. Choosing to stay drug and alcohol-free allows me to keep a clear mind, stay healthy, and take advantage of the opportunities in front of me. It reflects my commitment to making positive choices and setting a good example for others around me.”

His approach is rooted in a commitment to how he wants to live. “My decision to remain drug and alcohol-free comes from my desire to live a healthy, focused, and meaningful life,” said Rehagen, whose favorite quote from Oprah Winfrey, “You define your own life. Don’t let other people write your script,” is one he incorporates into his life. “From a young age, I learned the importance of making choices that support my goals and future. I want to stay in control of my mind and body so I can fully pursue my education, career, and personal growth without distractions or regrets. Choosing to live drug- and alcohol-free is a way for me to stay true to my values, set a positive example for others, and create opportunities for success. It’s not just a choice; it’s a commitment to becoming the best version of myself.”

That mindset shows up consistently in the classroom.

“Kaedyn is attentive, engaged, and highly inquisitive,” said teacher James Vignola. “In my years of knowing Kaedyn, I can’t say he ever had a missing assignment, and all the work that he turns in is top-tier. Kaedyn is also outgoing and positive, yet always respectful, which makes him easy to communicate with and a strong presence in the classroom.”

Vignola, in his nomination, noted that Rehagen’s consistency extends well beyond academics. “I nominated Kaedyn because he consistently demonstrates reliability, initiative, and a genuine commitment to both his academics and the school community,” said Vignola. “He doesn’t just meet expectations; he goes beyond them. Whether it’s his consistent engagement in class, his academic achievement, or his leadership in SADD, Student Council, and FBLA, he shows up and contributes in meaningful ways that make an impact on his peers.”

Rehagen maintains a 4.0 GPA while holding leadership roles across nearly every major student organization at Fatima, including FBLA president, Class of 2026 president, Student Council vice president, FFA vice president, NHS vice president, and SADD secretary, in addition to involvement in multiple other clubs.

His leadership style is adaptable. “What makes Kaedyn great is his ability to do either,” said Vignola. “He can be a leader, or he can follow by example.”

That flexibility is evident in his work with SADD. “As treasurer for SADD, he has really taken ownership of his role and grown into a strong leader,” Vignola noted. “He shows up to almost every meeting, is involved in all of our events, and actually puts in the effort to make things successful. For example, he helped push to get more students signed up for both the SADD and the Student Council blood drive, which made a noticeable difference in participation.”

Guidance Counselor Robin Schulte seconded the nomination. “I am pleased to write in strong support of Kaedyn Rehagen for OC-ADCAT,” she said. “As the school counselor at our high school, I have worked closely with Kaedyn, first as my kindergarten student, and now as a high school senior. I have observed his growth, leadership, and steady dedication to our school community.”

Schulte added that what separates Rehagen is how he carries leadership. “Kaedyn stands out because he combines visible leadership with genuine humility,” she said. “He takes pride in our school and in who he is as an individual, and he channels that pride into actions that benefit others. He serves on numerous school clubs and does not limit himself to attending meetings—he takes an active, reliable role in planning events, and following through on commitments.”

Faculty and students alike look to Rehagen as a dependable presence. “When a problem arises, or an event needs coordination, Kaedyn is someone others instinctively trust to help find a constructive solution,” said Schulte, adding that trust is built on how he treats others. “Many students refer to him as ‘their person, their voice.’ He has a natural ability to listen without judgment, to advocate for classmates who may feel overlooked, and to create spaces where everyone feels included. His leadership is not performative; he does not seek attention for himself. Rather, his motivation is to serve others and to strengthen the school community.”

Schulte noted that Rehagen volunteers time after school to check on struggling classmates and quietly assists with outreach activities for school events, so programs run more smoothly and therefore, more students can participate.

Rehagen carries that same sense of responsibility into social situations. “Like many students my age, there are times when I experience peer pressure to attend parties or situations where alcohol might be present,” he said. “While most people do not directly pressure others, there can still be an expectation to participate or fit in. In those moments, I remind myself of the goals I have set for my future and the values that are important to me. If I am in a situation where others may be drinking, I make the choice to refrain from alcohol and focus on spending time with friends in a responsible way. It is always good to get out of the house and have fun with friends, but students still need to be responsible!”

Support systems have also played a key role.

“I have a very supportive class, friends, and family,” said Rehagen, whose parents, Kevin and Dana, and sister, Kynlee, continue to be his biggest cheerleaders. “I have always realized that family is the most important because you will have them forever, while friends will come and go. It is important to establish a good connection with everyone in your family, as they will always have your back.”

Schulte said those qualities have a lasting impact on the school culture. “Kaedyn contributes to the school culture in ways that are harder to quantify but deeply felt,” she said. “He encourages other students to take on leadership roles, celebrates their successes, and speaks up for fairness and respect. Kaedyn deserves this recognition because he consistently elevates the well-being of his peers and the life of our school community. His leadership is sustained, selfless, and effective.” 

Rehagen works at Sinquefield Reserve in Folk, where he manages the gardens and operates a small business selling starter plants out of his greenhouse.

He plans to attend College of the Ozarks to study agribusiness, with a minor in horticulture or accounting, with a goal of operating his own landscaping and nursery business.

OC-ADCAT Executive Director Lorie Winslow will present Rehagen with a certificate, and he will be eligible to apply for the annual Student of the Month Scholarship.

“I am so excited to showcase our seniors who have chosen to live a drug- and alcohol-free life,” said OC-ADCAT Education Committee Chairperson Charlotte Bellsmith. “I know this isn’t an easy thing to do. The pressure on our teens to drink while still underage is still pretty severe.”

For more information about OC-ADCAT, visit https://www.ocadcat.org.