Leadership comes in many forms, whether it is through work, sports, family, or volunteering. By taking initiative to change circumstances or help others, leaders pave the way for impact; they influence their environment for the better, and this is exactly how I would describe resident Sara Kleeman.

 

Sara is an incoming senior at Boerne High School and has lived in Fair Oaks Ranch for 6 years. Sara’s passion for service extends to all areas: the military, the Boerne community, and her local church. Since moving here Sara has been involved with organizations such as the National FFA Organization, Whiskey Bravo (a non profit working to improve lives of military families), National Charity League (NCL), and St. Peter the Apostle Teen Council. In those organizations this year she will be serving as Whiskey Bravo Chapter President, NCL Secretary, and will compete with FFA in Floriculture. 

Sara has received the NCL Modelette Award twice; exemplifying NCL’s mission with her community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences. Sara has served as NCL Vice President of Philanthropy and President of the Class of 2026. Sara said, “Serving with NCL has reminded me to practice gratitude and also taught me so many leadership skills that will serve me throughout my lifetime.”  Sara’s past roles in the FFA include team captain, competing in speaking events, and building an Ag Mechanics project.

Sara has served on the St. Peter the Apostle Teen Council for three years, volunteering at the church’s VBS and Youth Leadership Conference. This opportunity combines Sara’s faith (the driving force behind her leadership) with leading others. She said, “It has been amazing to praise God and also lead others in the Christian faith.” 

Sara’s father served in the Air Force for 21 years, leading to multiple family moves. This has influenced Sara’s life tremendously, allowing her to experience various cultures and volunteer abroad, learning leadership and communication skills. Sara said, “As a military kid I have always enjoyed traveling and experiencing new cultures.” Travelling gave Sara a taste for the world and led her to be a part of several exchange programs in Germany. Additionally, her dad’s work in the military inspired Sara to volunteer for first responders and military events through Whiskey Bravo. 

Sara is a humble, capable, and loyal person who is always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around her. Through her experiences travelling, her numerous service outlets, and church volunteering, she has become the ideal leader to both encourage and shape future generations. Sara has advice for students wanting to lead, saying, “I would advise younger students to learn how to communicate professionally, because it is a skill you will carry with you for a long time and is key for planning projects and getting things done!” 

Sara plans to continue to grow her skills in communication and leadership in college by majoring in International Business. Her goal is to attend the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, including studying abroad. Evident through Sara’s demeanor and hard work, it is clear that confidence in yourself and others is what makes a great leader, one who not only achieves their own success, but one who helps others reach their own too.