FBI Honors Youth Worker with Director’s Community Leadership Award

The FBI presented Savenia Falquist with the Director's Community Leadership Award on Thursday, March 13, 2008, at Madras High School. Ms. Falquist was the driving force behind the production of "Silent Message," a film documenting the all-too-real problem of child sex abuse on the Warm Springs Reservation and around the region. Ms. Falquist, who was formerly the Madras Youth Development Coordinator, brought together a diverse group of film makers, community activists, and Madras High School students to produce the emotional and provocative piece.

Ms. Falquist worked with a group of at-risk teenagers from Madras High School to develop the idea. The students, many of whom were victims of sex abuse themselves, volunteered as actors or production assistants. After recruiting a family of local film makers, the group began production of the project in the spring of 2006. Since then, it has been shown many times in communities around the state.

"I am truly honored to receive this award on behalf of myself and the many other folks who worked on this film project," Ms. Falquist said. "When we come together as communities to protect children, we can accomplish great things."

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Dan Nielsen made the presentation to Ms. Falquist. "Savenia is exactly the kind of person we look to honor," he said. "She is passionate, she is committed, and she cares for these children more than anything. She is living proof that one person can make the ultimate difference."

Every year, each of the FBI's 56 field offices nominates one person or group to receive the Director's Award for Community Leadership. The award, given on behalf of Director Robert Mueller, honors those who have undertaken extraordinary efforts in their personal or professional lives to deter drugs and violence.

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