Left, Soik volunteers at the Salvation Army.

Story and photos by Robert Whitmire

Energizing, Motivating, Determined, Compassionate.

These are just a few of the terms used by the people who know and work with SPASH senior Savannah Soik.  In the fast-paced world of a high school student Savannah stands out as president of the National Honor Society (NHS), member of the girls basketball team, captain of the girls cross country team, member of the school’s Health Assistants, Homecoming activities planner, and blood drive coordinator.

All the while, she ranks as one of the top students academically maintaining a 3.8 GPA.

“It has been such a pleasure working with Savannah this year,” said Marianne Potter, Soik’s NHS advisor. “She is an energizing, motivating leader who encourages our members to reach their full potential.”

Savannah, daughter of Bruce and Stacey Soik, is looking forward to a career as an Emergency Medical Physician and, with a $68,000 scholarship in hand, will attend Loyola University.

She is known throughout the SPASH hallways and in the community as a go-to person whenever and wherever a smiling face is needed to assist.

“Savannah became a part of the Health Office at SPASH as a sophomore,” remembers Health Assistants Advisor Hana Beckel.  “She is a determined young woman who has reached goals that she set as a sophomore and junior, from becoming the NHS president to continuing to maintain a 3.8 GPA with such a rigorous schedule.  As captain of the girl’s track team for the past year she has demonstrated the leadership qualities that others look to for support.  This translates to the health office and her fellow students.  Her initiative to improve not only the health office, but our school, is an enormous feat she accomplishes with ease.”

“I love volunteering,” said Savannah.  “It provides me with the satisfaction of being a part of something larger than just myself. It has taught me how to manage my time, make connections within the community and it has taught me a good work ethic.”

One of the major projects that she leads for the National Honor Society is preparing meals once a month for the Salvation Army.

“We do this on a monthly basis because our whole goal is to give back to the community that has given us so much,” she said. “In my life I have overcome many struggles but if I could go back I wouldn’t change a thing.  The past seventeen years have been amazing and I am excited for what the future holds for me.”

If you see Savannah out in the community, you will notice she will be smiling and ready to help with any situation that arises.  Savannah Soik is A Person You Should Know.