Vicksburg High senior Autumn Lee set out to work for her school’s chapter of SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere) for a chance to give back, but now, she’s the recipient of a national award. The organization is affiliated with Allstate.

SAVE executive director Carleen Wray said Lee was awarded with the SAVE Shining Star for her impactful efforts in making her community safer.

“This outstanding national recognition is only awarded to one student each month, regardless of age or school location, and SAVE is thrilled to honor Autumn for her dedication to engaging, empowering and educating their peers in effective violence prevention practices,” she said. “One of Autumn’s most recent shining moments was when she planned and coordinated the Vicksburg High School Prom Safety Fun Day.  Autumn takes what SAVE is about seriously, and she uses her influence to help spread the message of the dangers of distracted driving and teen dating violence throughout her school and fellow student body.”

Lee said she helps plan and participates in the annual Prom Safety event and other activities sponsored by the organization.

“It’s an organization I wanted to be a part of because it involves me helping others,” she said. “For me personally, I love helping others. If there’s anything I can do to help anybody, I want to do it with a smile on my face.”

Lee’s adviser, Tameka Johnson, said Lee is a hard-working, humble student.

“She never hesitates to take the lead and she always has a pleasant attitude,” she said. “She’s always considerate of the feelings of others and she never meets a stranger.”

Johnson said SAVE has been very fortunate to have Lee.

“I nominated Autumn for all of these reasons, but what truly makes her stick out is the love that she has for Vicksburg High School,” she said. “She always encourages her fellow students to do the right thing and she is very self-motivated.”

After graduation later this month, Lee plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi to pursue a bachelor of science degree in nursing.