CHAMOIS — Chamois senior Savanah Sieg has been named the Osage County Anti-Drug Community Action Team (OC-ADCAT) Student of the Month, recognition highlighting her leadership, academic success, and commitment to living a drug and alcohol-free lifestyle.

Sieg said living free of addiction is important because she wants to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “My parents have always instilled in me that it is important to live drug and alcohol free,” she said of her mom and dad, Beth and Nelson Sieg, and sister, Kaylee Sieg, adding she has also witnessed the negative effects substance use can have on individuals. “I don’t want to go down that path.”

Sieg said she avoids situations that might create pressure and instead spends time with friends in supportive environments.

“My friends and family are very supportive of my drug and alcohol-free lifestyle,” she said. “They also agree with my stance on staying away from drugs and alcohol, so it makes it easier to stay away. I do not feel peer pressure to attend parties because I make a point to stay away from them. I would rather stay at home or hang out with friends in a different way.”

Teacher Madelyn Doyle, who nominated Sieg, said she consistently demonstrates perseverance, kindness, and drive. “I nominated Savanah because she consistently demonstrates perseverance, kindness, and drive,” said Doyle, adding she stands out not only for her character but also for the positive impact she has on those around her. “Savannah exemplifies the values of Chamois High School through her dedication, responsibility, and commitment to excellence.”

Doyle described Sieg as a hardworking and self-motivated student who actively participates in class discussions, asks thoughtful questions, and supports classmates. “She always approaches learning with enthusiasm and is willing to take academic risks,” Doyle added. “Her attitude contributes positively to the overall classroom environment.”

Sieg also demonstrates leadership both vocally and by example, Doyle noted, pointing to her role in managing much of the school’s social media and guiding peers while collaborating on projects. “Savanah is a natural leader that people want to follow and help,” Doyle said. “She combines confident communication with consistent action, demonstrating leadership in multiple ways.

Chamois Principal Jeremy McKague echoed those sentiments, describing Sieg as an outstanding student with a strong work ethic and positive influence. “Savanah is an outstanding student,” he said. “She tries her best at everything she does. She helps with all the mock crashes and Red Ribbon Week events at our school, and encourages students to follow their dreams and work hard to accomplish their goals.”

McKague added that Sieg participates in multiple activities while also volunteering to assist students and staff whenever needed.

“Savanah is a very kind and caring person,” he said. “She works hard to follow her dreams and refuses to let any negative influences affect her future.”

Sieg is involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including FFA, Student Council, Ed Rising, band, basketball, volleyball, track, and mass media. Her role in mass media is another leadership example. “She confidently directs students, along with asking for help when she needs it from her peers, and developing all of the social media team’s ideas,” said Doyle.

After high school, she plans to attend Truman State University to study psychology to become a social worker. “I am working hard and getting prepared for my next stage in life,” said Sieg, who maintains a 3.9 grade-point average.

OC-ADCAT Executive Director Lorie Winslow will present Sieg with a certificate, and she 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.