As we find our stride in a school year full of new challenges, it is no small pleasure to take a moment to celebrate an exceptional young lady, our October Student of the Month, Amber Braniff. On the field, in the classroom and on the stage, Amber has been a shining example of hard work, determination, and an unflappable positive attitude. Ogden is a better place because of her leadership and team spirit. Amber is the daughter of Joel and Jenna Dutcher and the older sister to Ella and Malia.
Amber embodies the small-school atmosphere at OHS. To say she is involved would be an understatement. She serves as a role model by sharing her talents and volunteering. Amber is on Student Council where she has served as Class President all four years. She is a member of the National Honor Society, CMS Club, Mass Media, and was chosen for Homecoming Court. She has participated in cross country, basketball, track and has maintained a 4.0 gpa throughout her academic career. This past summer, Amber played 2nd base on Ogden’s State Championship softball team.
Amber is an incredibly talented musician and has garnered many awards in band and chorus. While at OHS, she has participated in Mixed Choir, Chamber Choir, Show Choir, Musical Theater, Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Musical Pit, and Pep Band and Tech Crew. She has served on the leadership team for marching band as drum major, woodwind captain, section leader, and uniform captain. Amber has been selected to represent OHS in many honor bands throughout Iowa. Having performed several solos and been a member of countless ensembles, Amber has received numerous Division 1 ratings and Outstanding Performance Awards at IHSMA state music contest. In her free time, she enjoys playing the piano and while away from school, Amber finds time to work at Fareway. She has also volunteered with Meals for the Heartland.
Perhaps more impressive than her many accomplishments is the character Amber has demonstrated during her years at Ogden. She has been a kind and caring friend, a dependable and hardworking teammate, and a diligent and thoughtful student. She has displayed class, integrity and humility. She has given her passion - heart and soul - to every endeavour she has undertaken. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this fabulous human being as she heads to Iowa State to study Accounting. Congratulations Amber!
