Catholic School Alumni Spotlight: Savanna Vacek
This is the kind of news we love reading about.
In May 2019, Savanna Vacek graduated from Omaha Central High School, ranked fourth of 647 students in her class. Prior to high school, Savanna attended St. Bernard Catholic School, starting in pre-kindergarten and graduating eighth grade in 2015.
“One of my favorite teachers was Mrs. Peyton, my math and science teacher. In sixth grade, she noticed my abilities in math and moved me a year ahead. So by eighth grade, I was taking math classes at Roncalli Catholic High School,” Savanna said.
Mrs. Peyton was also responsible for Savanna developing an early interest in science. When Savanna earned first place in the Metro Science Fair and participated in the State Science Fair, she remembered this moment as when she fully realized her love of science.
Savanna now studies Civil Engineering with a minor in Spanish. She was accepted into the Honors Program at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas (UNLV), receiving their highest scholarships totaling $17,000. She also received $19,000 in private scholarships.
In June 2020, we were able to catch up with Savanna to see how her first year of college had gone.
“My first year of college couldn’t have been better,” she said.
A positive attitude and strong academic and social skills continue to bring Savanna success.
“I joined the Sigma Kappa sorority, and I hold the position of Vice President of Membership. I also am a part of Engineers without Borders. I also hold the position of publicity chair, which means I run all of our social media accounts and make flyers. I spend a lot of my time being involved at UNLV, volunteering, hiking, playing volleyball with the UNLV women’s club volleyball team, and getting to know the Las Vegas community. I also work part time for the office of the president here at UNLV. I have ended the year with a 3.92 GPA and just recently finished summer classes”
Savanna said she plans to study environmental engineering and build structures that will better the world in one way or another.
“My advice for families and students looking at a Catholic school would be to consider what environment they want their children to learn in and what environment they thrive in best. I received a very personalized learning experience and was always able to stay later for homework help. My questions were always answered and I received a great education, one that prepared me for college today!”
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We’re so proud of all of her accomplishments and wish Savanna continued success in the future. May God bless you as you transition into college and beyond.