Amanda Schmidt knew exactly what she needed to do to save the lives of her family members when their Ballwin home erupted in flames last October.
Schmidt, a student at St. Louis Community College-Meramec, recently received a Life Saving Award plaque at the Greater St. Louis Area Learning for Life Council Awards Banquette. Learning for Life is a coed affiliate of the Boy Scouts of America.
In the photo attached, Schmidt receives the award from Louis Eckelkamp, council commissioner. Also pictured are Schmidt's parents Mike and Missy.
The fire erupted following an explosion that was traced to a dehumidifier malfunction. Schmidt, 20, is pursuing an associate degree in teaching at Meramec. She also is a member of the St. Louis County Police Explorer Post 9774.
“Amanda has always been a dedicated member of the explorer post and an excellent president of the Meramec Criminal Justice Club,” said Ed Ucinski, a Meramec college police officer. “Of all of the students that I have encountered over the years, she has definitely been one of the most dedicated, hard-working and selfless individuals I have met at Meramec. Her bravery and gallantry did not surprise me. Amanda has conducted herself in the finest tradition of the exploring program and is a stellar example worthy of emulation.”
Established in 1962, St. Louis Community College is the largest community college district in Missouri and one of the largest in the United States. STLCC has four campuses – Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec and Wildwood – that annually serve more than 81,000 students through credit courses, continuing education and workforce development programs. For more information about STLCC, visit www.stlcc.edu.