x
Breaking News
More () »

Galesburg student gets hand-delivered St. Ambrose scholarship

In this season of giving, a senior at Galesburg High is getting a very special gift. It’s a surprise that will change her life. That’s why a univers...

In this season of giving, a senior at Galesburg High is getting a very special gift.

It's a surprise that will change her life.

That's why a university dean makes a rare, hand delivery to a Galesburg home.

"I almost felt like I was from Publishers Clearing House," said Dr. Sarah Vordtriede-Patton, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at St. Ambrose University.  "It's a lot of money."

Photos capture the moment as Sara Saey, 17, gets great news.

"She just threw up her hands and clasped her face," Dr. Vordtriede-Patton recalled.

It's understandable.

Sara is getting a full scholarship to St. Ambrose University.

"I was just in disbelief," she said.  "This can't be real."

Sara and her mom, Laura, were summoned from a workout to get the big news.

"I think it says a lot for St. Ambrose that they sent someone out personally to deliver this message," Laura said.

Sara knows a lot about challenges, like a disaster drill three years ago.

"I think it's good that we all become aware of what to do in case an earthquake does occur," she said back in 2012.

And as President Obama calls for education reforms during a 2013 stop in Galesburg, Sara is thinking about her future.

"It will open my eyes for new job opportunities," she said at the time.  "What he's trying to get done for America."

At a mock business lunch in May, Sara shows her leadership skills.

St. Ambrose will be getting a remarkable student.

Sara has a perfect GPA at Galesburg High and ranks at the top of her graduating class.

"She's just a very genuine person, and the kind of person that is going to fit in really well here," said Dr. Vordtriede-Patton.

Sara plans to study Biology in the honors program, aiming to become an orthodontist.

"They have lots of research opportunities," she said.  "The student to faculty ratio is very low."

As Sara and her mom pore over the paperwork, it's just the start of a remarkable four years.

"Just knowing that I have that full ride to an excellent university, my top choice, was just amazing," Sara said.

Just in time for the holidays, it's a perfect surprise.

"I decided, I'm going to surprise her," Dr. Vordtriede-Patton concluded.  "Everything worked out perfectly."

Before You Leave, Check This Out