Senior S.A.G.E., short for Set A Good Example, is far more than just a school honor. This award carries on the legacy of Carrie Colglazier, a Hamilton Southeastern graduate who tragically passed away due to a drunk driver on June 6th, 2023. At HSE, Carrie was active in National honor Society, FFA, and athletics, earning All-State honors in both soccer and track. She deeply impacted her community, teachers, and peers by the example she set every day. Today, HSE honors her memory through the Carrie Colglazier scholarship and an annual workday where students volunteer to support families.
The award recognizes students who embody Carrie’s traits of leadership, positivity, and influence. Winning Senior S.A.G.E. means taking initiative, leading by example, and encouraging others to grow. It highlights students who empower those around them to be their best. Carrie inspired this award through her actions, motivating others to follow in her footsteps.
Each month, two students are selected to receive the honor. Most recipients are surprised, as administrators and their families arrive to present the award. It is always a powerful moment, celebrating the student’s outstanding example in all areas of school and life. Recipients also watch a video created by Southeastern Media Network, where teachers share meaningful testimonies about the student’s impact both inside and outside the classroom.
The meaning of Senior S.A.G.E. is rooted in lifting others up. Associate Principal Ms. Brown illustrates this idea by giving each recipient a medal that they wear at graduation, describing it as one hand holding another.
“That’s the challenge for you. It is to continue to be that kind of person who lifts another person up,” Stacie Brown said.
This idea forms the heart of the award. Teachers and the community trust that chosen students will continue to influence others in positive ways. Principal Jim Self reinforces this message at every ceremony, explaining how the award began.
“The award was named after her, not because she was perfect, but because she lived her life as you two do, as an example for others. And just like you two, she was proud to be a Royal,” Jim Self said.
The Senior S.A.G.E. Award remembers Carrie’s legacy while recognizing students who are already making a difference. Each recipient leaves a lasting mark on HSE, proving that leadership begins with setting an example.
