Influencer of the Week: Sammie Lambourne, Windermere High

A senior at Windermere High, Sammie Lambourne has been involved in creating traditions and shaping the Wolverine legacy since Day One. Lambourne was part of the school’s first freshman class, which will graduate this spring. She is known as the girl who “bleeds navy and lime” — even “Windermere Woman” to some — and last year was recognized by Orange County Public Schools as an outstanding ADDitions school youth volunteer honoree. Having been involved in more than 50 projects for the school throughout her time there, she also still manages to maintain a 3.9 GPA, take AP classes and work at the grocery store on the weekends.  

Tell us briefly about everything you're involved in at Windermere High.

I am the student body president at Windermere High, a student advisor to the superintendent, senior/coverage editor of the yearbook and (National Honor Society) historian. I also used to be a varsity basketball player my freshman and sophomore year.

What made you want to be so involved in your school?

Towards the end of middle school, my leadership teacher extended an offer to be involved in a leadership training camp to learn from other student leaders across the state of Florida and bring back those skills and ideas to starting the new school. From choosing to be involved in helping to start the traditions at Windermere High, I have had a passion for wanting to create a legacy that inspires people to become involved. I believe that when you are involved in high school — specifically in projects focusing on bettering the community — you are creating a culture of outreach and support. I have strived to be involved in high school as a voice for the student body so that students can feel like they are represented and acknowledged in all that they do. 

What is the most rewarding part of being so integrated in service to your school?

I have loved seeing how my school has changed since we opened our doors for the first time my freshman year. It is incredible to see how talented and accomplished my peers are. We truly have the best students who are exceptional in all areas. I have loved watching the theatre performances, band competitions, sporting events, club activities and seeing the artwork from our creative students. There are so many organizations on campus that are doing amazing things; it’s a reward itself to be a part of that school community where you can observe all the talent. 

What do you love most about your school?

I love that my school is new. Because my school is new, there has been so much possibility for creating traditions and school culture. Some of my favorite events and projects that we do include our senior handprints, annual fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network, and our school dances.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to listen to music and go on long car rides, and if I have more than a couple minutes’ worth of extra time, I’ll learn a song on the guitar from a YouTube video.

Who is/was your favorite teacher throughout school so far? Why?

Oh this is impossible to answer! I have been blessed to have many impactful teachers that have helped me throughout high school in one way or another.

What do you want to be when you grow up? Why?

In college, I plan on majoring in international relations/public policy, so I hope to be working in foreign policy combating the world’s major issues in a few years. I have always wanted to make a widespread impact, and I feel like working in foreign policy would allow me to make lasting change.

If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?

I would love to have the power of teleportation. That way, I could go to my favorite ice-cream shop whenever I wanted or visit my dream vacation spots. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

The Surfaces Band, Khalid, and hands-down Shakira. Any song from these talented folks just gets me in a happy mood.