From the Principal Dr.
Vincent Montoro
Dear CCA Community, Fall Greetings!
As we reflect on Christian Central Academy’s 75 years as an educational beacon in Western New York, we cannot deny God’s faithfulness. God has been faithful to CCA from its initial formation into its 75th year. God, through His choice servants, has navigated the academy through the good and the bad. The constant thread through the years has been CCA’s commitment to our students’ spiritual and intellectual growth which is evident in our present commitment to a rigorous, God-honoring curriculum and our focus on discipleship with a strong emphasis on the conservative values that have made our country great.
It is our strategic vision that CCA graduates have the skills and competencies to fulfill God’s call on their lives by being:
Faithful and Compassionate Disciples of Jesus Christ Wise Leaders
Passionate, Lifelong Learners
Therefore, we have been hiring and retaining quality, God-honoring faculty and staff and enrolling students who wholeheartedly support the mission and vision of the school and maintaining quality programs, curriculum and facilities to make this vision reality. Student recruitment and retention, along with generous financial support from friends and alumni of CCA will continue to make this possible.
We are thankful for what God has done and excited about what God is presently doing at CCA, especially among our students and families. We believe CCA has a bright future and a solid, clear path ahead. We ask you to join us as
ACADEMIC PREFECT •
Hometown • Marilla, NY Alumni Relations • My siblings, Sarah ’18 and Jacob ‘22 Crusader Sports • Soccer, Track & Field
Hobbies • Reading
Clubs • Writing Club, Art Club, Weightlifting Club
Future Plans • I am looking forward to graduating with a bachelor’s degree in animation. Favorite Verse • So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
God’s Faithfulness • God has provided me with many opportunities to learn and grow. I have been able to attend Christian Central Academy for most of my school life, which has allowed me to grow in my faith and as a person. I have also been able to make close friends with other students at CCA who encourage me in my faith.
Colleges • Niagara County Community College, Daemen University, Villa Maria College, Alfred State, Rochester Institute of Technology
CCA Prep • CCA provides a Christian-based learning environment. This has allowed me to grow in my faith and has prepared me to defend my faith outside of school. After high school, I will no longer have constant reinforcement of my faith, which is why I am grateful that CCA has done what it can to prepare me for life outside of a Christian environment.
Elizabeth Ziarniak
CHRISTIAN CENTRAL ACADEMY
WHAT’S Inside
Leading Faithful
In 1947, parents from the Alden Mennonite Church (unhappy with the state of public education) felt called by God to open the Alden Mennonite School. In 1949, the school officially opened with 38 students and 2 teachers. Over the years the school’s name and building location changed a few times, however, in 1985, God provided 39 Academy Street for the faculty, staff and students of Christian Central Academy. Over the last 75 years, God has been faithful, providing godly men and women who lead, teach and proclaim the one true God within the walls of CCA.
Perhaps many of you relate to the concern parents in Alden had in 1947 over the state of education in New York. In 2024, we see an aggressive push of godless and immoral agendas in our school districts in New York state and, frankly, in this country. The choice about who, where and how our children will be educated is weighty. In 2011, my husband and I decided that our 3 children would be educated at Christian Central Academy. We wanted a partnership with school leaders and teachers who held to Biblical truths, who loved the Lord and our children, who prayed for our children and desired that they accept the Lord Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and grow in their relationship with Him.
This year, CCA’s theme verse is Deuteronomy 7:9 which states, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love to those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations.” Because of God’s faithfulness, CCA continues to provide a conservative Christian, nondenominational, college-preparatory education to its students.
We praise God for those who came before us at CCA through whom God laid a foundation to build upon through us. That being said, we welcome alumni, former faculty/staff and friends of CCA to visit Christian Central Academy’s wonderful campus! Stop by to view our recently completed legacy wall entitled “A History of God’s Hand on CCA.” Additionally, we hope you will view our display of documents, pictures and books
We covet your prayers, for CCA’s Board of Directors, administration, faculty, staff and students. Thank you for your faithful support of Christian Central Academy.
Christian Central Academy 2024-2025
Board of Directors
Karen Jones
President
Jesse Jerge
Treasurer
Matt Carson
Secretary
Rebekah Lattimer
Jay Sackett
Matt Stewart
“ Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love to those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations.
”
Deuteronomy
7:9
discipleship
by: Pastor Garcia, Campus Pastor
I have been privileged with the opportunity this school year to transition into the role of campus pastor. One of CCA’s desires as a school is to be more intentional with the spiritual formation of the students and ensure they are prepared to live missionary lives when they leave Christian Central Academy.
This summer, four students were selected to be part of Summit Ministries Leadership training, where they spent 11 days with Summit Ministries in Georgia or Colorado. These students applied to the program and received a full scholarship for this training. They had to fill out a detailed application that included essays about why they wanted to attend and provide references who could speak about their love for Christ, character, and desire to be challenged. During this 11-day trip, these students attended various seminars and worship gatherings. They learned skills such as defending their faith, understanding other worldviews, and addressing ethical issues facing culture and Christians today.
Nathan Tyson and Samantha Derkovitz went to the training session in Georgia. Nathan shared that his time there challenged, strengthened, and grew his faith. He said, “Some of these things I already knew, but there were a lot of great speakers who presented a new perspective I had not thought of for my own life and my faith in general.”
Samantha said, “My time at Summit helped me to come out of my shell and enabled me to talk more freely about my faith to those around me.”
Maeghan O’Hara and Ashley Kinda went to the Colorado session. Meaghan said, “Summit Ministries was one of the best leadership programs ever. I got to learn many new ideas and concepts that helped me defend my faith and meet incredible staff members and peers while I was there.” Ashley said, “Going to Summit Ministries answered many
Alexis DelValle • STUDENT ACTIVITIES
of my questions about ethics and what the Bible truly says about controversial topics. I was able to grow in my faith and also in community and understanding.”
Starting with our annual high school retreat, and transitioning from summer to the start of the school year, students have begun going through training called ‘MyCircle.’ This training is designed to help students understand that where God has placed them in life is intentional and for a purpose. They are taught that they live in the time, family, community, and region they are in so that they can leverage their relationships for the gospel. Students have begun identifying their circles, which include relationships in their lives, such as family, friends, schoolmates, co-workers, neighbors, and extended relationships. From there, students have begun identifying people in their lives who do not know Jesus and have committed to begin praying for them frequently. They will then plan ways to invest in a few of these relationships with the hope and intention of sharing Jesus with these people they have identified, both in word and action.
My desire, and that of CCA, for these students is to help them understand that every moment of their life is a mission, not just when they go on trips or go to church, but it starts right in the circle of influence God has already placed them in.
PREFECT
Hometown • Buffalo, NY Alumni Relations • My aunt, Alicia Defries and sister, Victoria ‘22
Crusader Sports • Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball Hobbies • Volleyball, Skiing, Family & Friends, Camping Future Plans
• I would like to major in something that will allow me to work in sports and with children. I plan to travel and reside in Hawaii.
Favorite Verse
• For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 Corinthians 5:1 (ESV)
God’s Faithfulness • God has been faithful in my life because he has been with me through every hard time and every good time. He has been faithful in every promise and has revealed Himself in many ways throughout my life. Colleges • Erie County Community College
CCA Prep • CCA is different because it is a Christian environment and smaller school which gives you better one on one education. It has prepared me for life outside of school because I know how to handle real life situations with a Godly approach.
Sam (Gr.11), Ashley (Gr. 12), Maeghan (Gr. 12), Nathan (Gr.11)
1947
1949
In September, with prayers and faith, the first school day commences in the basement of Alden Mennonite Church with 38 pupils and two teachers, marking the humble beginnings of CCA.
Parents from the Alden Mennonite Church in Alden, NY, feeling called by God, consider establishing a Mennonite school to provide education rooted in Christian principles.
1963
The church’s “Sisters’ Fellowship”, initiates the first annual auction fundraiser, sowing seeds for the school’s future. The same year, the first yearbook “Excelsior” was published. Classes accommodate 59 students and four teachers in 1st through 10th grades.
1965
The Alden Mennonite School changes its name to Alden Christian School
1949- Time
1985
First Graduating Class in 1982
The voters of Williamsville decided to officially sell the building, and approved an offer of $275,000 made by the Metropolitan Chapel (The Chapel) making the Academy Street School the permanent home of Christian Central Academy.
1981
Christian Central Academy relocates to the vacant Williamsville Academy Street School, continuing its mission to shape hearts and minds. Class of 1982 was the first graduating class at the 39 Academy St. location.
1997
Answering God’s call, Mrs. Nurline Lawrence assumes leadership as Head of School, serving with dedication and a vision deeply rooted in Christian values.
1994
Entrusted to God’s guidance, The Chapel board launched the school into independence in July, marking a new chapter under the governance of a devoted Board of Directors. Principal Dr. Ruth Adams (1984-1993) set high standards of academic and spiritual leadership which continued to this day.
1973
The school relocates to Randall Memorial Baptist Church, to help grow the student population, expanding to grades K-12 . It takes on a new name, Faith Christian School, inspired by then student Faythe Schlaback, whose father was on the school’s board at the time.
Randall Church
1978
Recognizing the importance of a Christ-centered education, The Metropolitan Chapel of Buffalo (now the Chapel at Crosspoint) under the leadership of Pastor James Andrews embraces the school, leading to its incorporation as Christian Central Academy, dedicated to holistic development— mentally, morally, physically, and spiritually.
1977
Guided by God’s providence, Faith Christian School grows to 165 students and finds a new home at the vacant Sheridan Hill public elementary school building in Williamsville. The school moves into the new building during Christmas Break, 1976. The curriculum covered kindergarten through 12th grade and met requirements for New York State regents.
1980
The school body grew to over 250, and it became evident that CCA needed to find a larger home.
Line - 2024
2004
The Emmanuel Athletic Facility is established, fostering teamwork and character development in alignment with Christian principles.
2007
A tennis court is added to the CCA campus, promoting physical wellness and community fellowship.
2011
In a testament to academic and spiritual integrity, CCA receives accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA), continuing its commitment to excellence in Christian education. (pictured are CCA’s Accreditation Coordinators for CCA’s first MSA Accreditation)
2005
Reflecting stewardship and faithfulness, CCA acquires 25 School Street (The Blue House), enhancing administrative capabilities to further God’s mission.
2006 CCA expands its campus with the acquisition of 5830 Main Street, now designated as the Lan Wong and Deborah Chung Center for Science and Art. The lower floor currently houses the STREAMM Lab and the High School Library, while the upper floors accommodate the art suite and the science wing.
The timeline is continued on Page 12. Scan the QR code or visit christianca.com/75 for even more details and pictures of CCA’s rich history.
Advancement
Michael O’Hara is the Director of Advancement. His children have attended CCA
Have you heard the story of the Post Turtle? It goes something like this:
While stitching the hand of an old farmer who was cut on a barbed wire fence, the doctor struck up conversation. The topic got around to the current political leaders. The old farmer shared his thoughts saying, “The way I see it, politicians are like Post Turtles.” Curious, the doctor asked what is a post turtle? The old farmer said, “When you are driving on a country road, and you come across a fence post with a turtle balanced on the top of it, that’s a post turtle.” Seeing that the doctor was still curious yet puzzled, the farmer explained, “If you see a turtle on a fence post you know the turtle didn’t get up there by itself. A turtle cannot climb the post, it cannot fly to the top, and it cannot walk across the barbed wire to get to the post. If a turtle is on a fence post somebody put it there.”
This story has been used many times as a critique and reminder that politicians are where they are because of the people who elected them to that position, and maybe that they are unable to do much without the help of others while in office. This story has also been used countless times by preachers to encourage congregants to reflect on the complexities of creation and how we would not exist without a divine creator. Either way, a post turtle provokes us to wonder, like Paul Harvey, “What is the rest of the story?”
The same is true when archeologists discover something just beneath the earth’s surface. As layer after layer of soil is removed from an archeological site these experts begin to observe and differentiate between what would be expected in nature and what are signs of human involvement. Each chisel mark, curved piece of pottery fragment and hewn stone screams that a human story played out in that specific location at some particular time in history. As more is discovered and compiled with other discoveries from the same time period greater understanding is gained about what life was like in that historical time and geographical location. The contrast between the story being uncovered and the one our society is currently living makes it both easy to see how different things were but also hard to understand a context of which we are only gathering glimpses.
The work of archeologists reminds me of the memorials the Israelites would build and how that may relate to the celebration of Christian Central Academy’s 75th anniversary. There is a Biblical precedent for laying stones as a memorial to the Lord in order to remember the good things He has done. One such memorial was built at Gilgal to commemorate the miraculous entrance of the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, into the Promised Land. In Joshua 4:1-8, God commanded the Israelites to cross the Jordan River which He had stopped from flowing. Once the entire Israelite nation made it across the dry riverbed of the Jordan, God instructed Joshua to have a man from each of the twelve tribes to remove 12 boulders from the riverbed. They erected these large stones as a memorial to God’s love and miraculous assistance. Joshua 4:21-22 explains that, “When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’ then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the
since 2010.
Ark of the Covenant of the Lord.” God longs for us to proclaim His goodness and faithfulness to future generations. How wonderful it is to follow our Board President’s lead in proclaiming this year’s theme verse, Deuteronomy 7:9. It’s an encouragement from Moses to the Israelites shortly before passing the reins of leadership to Joshua and the nation coming to the edge of the Jordan River to enter the promised land. Moses says, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keeps his commandments, to a thousand generations.”
The stones at Gilgal reminded future generations of the God of miracles so their faith would be renewed. God has always been concerned about our forgetfulness. Memorials mark a time and place where God changed our lives. Where God, whether by His word, by His spirit, or through others, intervened and forever changed the trajectory of our lives. It was wonderful to host Head of School Emeritus Nurline Lawrence at CCA’s Homecoming this past September, where she shared, “Homecoming, affords us the opportunity to look back with gratitude at the past while we cope with the present and look forward in anticipation of the future. The old order may have to yield to the new. The book of Hebrew encourages us to let the past inspire the present, to give our entire attention to what God is doing right now.” Memorials take many forms today, but they all call us to not only remember, but to also take action based on those memories. Remembrance is not just for remembering, it’s to change how we approach our present and our future.
For 75 years Christian Central Academy has been lifted up as a ‘light on a hill’ in Western New York. But, just as a ‘post turtle,’ we haven’t always existed there or gotten there by ourselves. By the kindness and faithfulness of God, and the selfless service and support of former parents, faculty, staff, Board members, and donors far and wide, CCA has continued on with its mission to “provide an environment in which the faculty, staff, and students will grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:52) The memorials are in our school’s hallways, auditorium, cafeteria, Emmanuel Athletic Facility, and more. Physical spaces where learning has expanded minds, inspiration has fueled understanding, and relational bonds have been fostered. Yes, there is a wonderful newly constructed memorial wall in our front hallway, but the memorials in the hearts and minds of former CCA students are the chisel marks and molded thinking that has hewn together a community of world changers for 75 years.
As you turn the pages of this fall 2024 edition of the Academy Advantage, I hope you read and see the stories as memorials from living stones. Let these memorial stories not only remind us of God’s faithfulness and blessings but may they also encourage us in how we apply our own faithfulness to steward Christian Central Academy towards another 75 years. As you remember and connect with the memories of others, I ask you to pray and consider how much the Lord could entrust you to invest in CCA’s future.
Reflecting and anticipating with you,
Christian Central Academy annual giving
Since 1949, Christian Central Academy has advanced the mission of developing young hearts and minds for Christ in Western New York.
Imagine what Western New York would look like without CCA!
It is up to each new generation of parents, grandparents, alumni and friends of the school to take the baton to help sustain and position a Christ-centered education for the next generation to come. Your investment in our future serves as a financial cornerstone, enabling CCA to uphold its legacy of excellence for at least 75 more years. That starts with your help to finish the 2024 calendar year strong!
Your tax deductible donation ensures more students will receive training from an early age to love the Lord with all of their heart, mind and strength. From academics to athletics, the arts to financial aid, your generosity impacts every aspect of our school life. Your donation helps us maintain the high standards of academic excellence, offer financial aid to deserving students, improve and maintain our facilities, provide updated technology, support our dedicated employees and so much more. Through your support, you directly contribute to the discipleship of our students and the expansion of the Kingdom of God.
As you prayerfully consider your giving to Christian Central Academy, know that your sacrificial gift, together with the faithful support of others, will make a profound difference. Remember, donations made before December 31 are tax-deductible, and
those received in November greatly assist in our school’s decisionmaking process.
Enclosed in this edition of the Academy Advantage you will find a donation card and return envelope. You can select a “One-Time Gift” or help sustain the mission of CCA with a commitment to “Monthly Giving.” Donations can be made via check, cash, providing your credit card information on the donation card or online by scanning the QR code below or at ChristianCA.com/ Giving.
For our friends aged 72 and above, we warmly encourage you to consider the potential tax benefits of making a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your retirement accounts directly to CCA, or donating long-term appreciated stock. These contributions may offer a tax deduction, help you avoid capital gains taxes, and significantly support our mission—a true win-win! CCA is happy to provide our brokerage information to facilitate these transfers. We also appreciate and welcome donations from foundations and Donor Advised Funds, ensuring the process is smooth and efficient.
Your kindness and generosity fuel the Christian Central Academy vision, creating a ripple effect far beyond our school walls, and furthers the Kingdom of God.
Thank you for giving!
Thank you for giving!
Faithful Legacy
Christian Central Academy is like a second home and family to me. As we celebrate the school’s 75th Anniversary, God has blessed me with being a part of it for 28 years so far and every step of the way He has shown His great faithfulness to the school and our family! Since our oldest son Matthew began Kindergarten in Mrs. Basinski’s classroom back in the fall of 1996, until our youngest son Mark graduated in June 2012 (both attended CCA for 13 years), we experienced God’s faithfulness to provide the finances we needed for tuition. Along the way, God opened many doors of blessing for all of us. He increased CCA’s enrollment and brought many godly, skilled faculty & staff who nurtured, challenged and encouraged our sons to not only become godly men but to excel in academics. He provincially brought Head of School Mrs. Lawrence to CCA who accelerated so many academic programs that our sons benefited from like AP Courses and introduced the Prefect Council and Teacher Aide program from which our sons gained valuable leadership skills. He provided dedicated, generous Board Members who worked together to build the Emmanuel Athletic Facility and increase CCA’s sports programs, including baseball, our
CCA is blessed with Faculty and Staff who believe in God and CCA by working here in addition to sending their children into the hallowed halls.
sons’ passion. God also provided for me, as a stay-at-home mom, lots of opportunities to volunteer everywhere at CCA, from Classroom Mom, to Lunch Monitor Coordinator, to assisting with Open Houses, The Gala, and so many other fundraisers and events; all of which formed the basis for CCA becoming like a second home and family to me. In May of 2012, God blessed me with the opportunity to join CCA’s staff as the Textbook Assistant, working closely with the Administration and faculty to order and oversee all the curriculum. It is through working at this job for the past 12 years that I have seen God’s faithfulness to CCA even more! He has continued to bring godly, passionate faculty to nurture, challenge and encourage the students; dedicated, generous Board Members who provide vision and oversight to CCA; and hardworking, skilled staff members who oversee all the underworkings of CCA. I am truly blessed to be a part of the CCA Family for these past 28 years, experiencing and seeing personally how faithful indeed our God has been to CCA!
Kris Goszewski
In 1985 as I started my higher education, I wanted to do anything except teach math. God has a funny sense of humor because when you say you don’t want to do something that may be what you end up doing for Him. For the past 24 years at CCA. I have seen His faithfulness so many times. I have been blessed to not only teach mathematics but have the opportunity each day to watch God work through me and the people around me. I remember when Mrs. Lawrence asked me to lead the Senior mission trip to the Dominican Republic. She had faith in me that I was the one to lead. I said, “No,” that was the last thing I wanted to be responsible for. She asked me to pray about it, I did and God changed my heart. He sent me to the Dominican not just once but many times. So many students’ lives were changed ( including my own) through serving the people like Jesus did. We fed the hungry, brought clothes for the needy and supplies for the missionaries. I am so thankful Mrs. Lawrence had the vision for the students to get out of the classroom and use what they had learned to help others.
As a teacher, we plant the seeds of knowledge and sometimes we don’t see the fruit. Whether that be in our core subject area or in the development of a Chrisitian worldview in our students. However, God has called us to have faith that the seeds planted will take root and grow. I
remember one year in particular, I was teaching 11th grade Bible. There was a student who resisted any Biblical teaching and was confrontational in discussions. Each day I would pray for the words to use that would make her think about God. Many years later, that student sent me a message that went something like this. I am sorry I made your class so hard to teach, I understand now. She had finally surrendered her life to Christ. Praise the Lord!
I have seen my students become pastors, missionaries, dentists, doctors, nurses, teachers, financial consultants, business entrepreneurs, and the list goes on. Although their professions are wonderful, seeing them walk with the Lord is the greatest inspiration to keep going. That is why I teach at CCA. I have seen His faithfulness and will continue to see lives changed by what we do at CCA.
NEW STUDENT/ADMISSIONS PREFECT
Hometown • Tonawanda, NY
Alumni Relations • My Mother, Amy (Wrigglesworth) Kinda ‘98 Crusader Sports • Volleyball Hobbies • Volunteering and Reading Clubs • Drama and Art Future Plans • Korean Translation/Interpretation and Audio Production Favorite Verse • After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. Revelation 7:9 (NIV) God’s Faithfulness • I feel as though God has placed people and opportunities straight into my hands and by following these opportunities, I have been able to grow personally and in faith in Him.
Colleges • University at Buffalo, University of Rochester, Cornell University CCA Prep • CCA offers opportunities to connect with all students due to its small size. Being able to connect with people with different backgrounds has helped me in understanding how to reach other people.
Deb Wade
Goszewski Family: Kris, Bob, Mark and Matthew (L to R)
Mrs. Wade with her daughter and CCA Middle School Science Teacher, Sarah Moore.
2024 Faculty Retreat
Houghton University, New York
impacting generations
Christian Central Academy has been a part of my life for forty-six years. My mom began teaching at Faith Christian School in 1978. At that time, the school could not afford to pay her, so she worked for free, allowing my oldest brother to attend. In 1979, I began attending Faith Christian School as a fourth grader in Miss Sonya Latham’s class (now Mrs. Sonya Grabau). She was my very favorite teacher. She wrapped me up in so much love every day. She prayed over me and my family and taught me about God through her own love for Him. Kevin McNamara was my 8th grade homeroom teacher, gym teacher and science teacher. I’ll never forget his enthusiasm when teaching what streamlining is, nor his enthusiasm when I would show even the smallest measure of athletic ability. Dr. Deone Drake was my high school Bible teacher and math teacher in high school. While I hated algebra, I loved to learn God’s word from Dr. Drake. He often invited questions and discussion, so that we knew that his classroom was a safe place to learn openly, to press into doubt and uncertainty and to find stability in Dr. Drake’s knowledge of the Word of God. In one very memorable classroom conversation, Dr Drake taught me Luke 12:48: “To whom much is given, much is required.” I could not have known then how very much that truth would impact my heart and saturate my life, but I do now. I was given a Christian education, a Godly community, a people, a place, and gifts to serve our God. Mrs. Lawrence invited me to join the CCA faculty in 2014, to serve God at His school, and give back to Him and to His people what He has so richly given me.
When I graduated from CCA in 1988, my classmates joked that I would return to teach English at our Alma Mater. I strongly
Miss Farley, International Student Programming Coordinator and Mrs.Hancock, Orchestra and Chorus, enjoying downtime.
As a new faculty member, I really appreciated the opportunity to get to know my new colleagues and share some special experiences together before having to dive into teacher work week and a new school year. There were also moments of growth together where we could use our skills and experience to support each other as we faced the start of a new year. The sessions were helpful and interesting, and the food was really good. Going was a very last minute decision for me, but I am so glad I did!
Isabel Farley
The Houghton retreat was a good time for teachers to learn about AI, differentiation and getting to the heart of the matter with our students. I particularly enjoyed having a professional development that applied to all areas of education, including art and music! The downtime activities were fun and relaxing. I learned that Miss Farley can swim across the lake! It was an enjoyable weekend.
Beth Ellen Hancock
by: Laura Lewis, English Teacher
disagreed. In 2013, my mom and I came to visit the school because my husband and I were concerned about the impact that the public school was having on our children’s hearts. My mother strongly urged my husband and I to consider visiting CCA, and I acquiesced, certain that by honoring her with a simple visit to the school I would find the resolve to homeschool our children. Upon approaching the school I looked up at the white and blue sign that hung pristinely framed in ivy above the main entrance which read, “Where faculty, staff, and students will grow in wisdom and stature, and favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). This verse was the verse that my husband had prayed aloud over our children from the time that they were born. God whispered to my soul through His Word. This was the school where they were meant to be. Our children began attending CCA the fall of 2015, and I began as the 7th and 8th grade English teacher, and the 7th grade Bible teacher. How I cherished our drives to school together, listening to stories of their challenges and victories, their frustrations, and their joy. We would laugh, and sing, and pray, and dream together in ways I had not even imagined. Our daughter, Kamryn, graduated from CCA in 2019, and our son, Kaden, graduated from CCA in 2021. Kamryn is now married and living in Joshua Tree, California where she teaches high school art. Her fondest memories of CCA are Mrs. Guerin’s art classes and painting a mural in the gymnasium with her classmate, Ellie Furmaneck. Kaden is currently a senior at the University at Buffalo, and is pursuing an undergraduate degree in biomedical science. He will be applying to medical schools this spring. Our school is not just a great school. CCA prepares hearts and minds for His good and perfect will in Christ Jesus. Kemper and I are deeply grateful for the faculty at CCA who, because of their commitment to Christ, love and care for every student and are devoted to growing them in wisdom, favor and stature.
Rushford Lake at Sunset
Brandy Marshall, Kristin Rhodes & Cathy Tom in the Equestrian Center.
The Legacy Wall at Christian Central Academy was once just a dream, but today, it has become a reality!
OUTlook
by: Donna Visone
From the moment our family stepped into CCA during an Open House, I knew this school had a special legacy, one rooted in Christian values and a commitment to shaping the future. As a parent of four CCA graduates, I feel blessed to be part of a community that nurtured not only my children’s education but also their faith. It was during our time at CCA that the Lord gave me a dream of creating a Legacy Wall at CCA and today, that dream has become a reality! With the unveiling of the Legacy Wall in celebration of CCA’s 75th Anniversary, now we have a place honoring the school’s past while presently inspiring generations and those committed to donating to this school that gives everlasting grace into the future. The Legacy Wall is a visual reminder of the impact CCA has and had on so many lives, and I’m proud to have helped bring this dream to life.
Timeline Continued from Page 7
2013
Christian Central Academy embarks on a global mission with the launch of its International Program. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, CCA’s International Program enriches the school’s Christian identity and reinforces its dedication to shaping global citizens grounded in faith and academic excellence.
2020
Dr. Stuart Chen assumes leadership as CCA Pre-K-12 President, upholding the school’s foundational commitment to Christian education. The preschool program was reinstated for the first time since it operated at the Sheridan Hill location from 1977-1979.
2015
With a heart full of gratitude, Mrs. Nurline Lawrence retires, passing the torch to Mr. Thad Gaebelein, who leads with a renewed vision and commitment to CCA’s Christian values.
2017
Mr. Thad Gaebelein introduces a STEM program, equipping students for God’s purpose in an everchanging world.
2021
Dr. Vincent Montoro is appointed principal, continuing to guide CCA in its mission to cultivate minds and hearts for Christ.
The display cabinet showcases school memories from the last 75 years.
View the new front hallway and walk down the legacy of CCA.
Back when I first started here, thirty-nine years ago, we held Physical Education class in the area behind the auditorium and we called it many names depending on what color carpet was in there (“mint” gym, “cinnamon” gym, or the “green” gym). The space was not adequate for what we needed here for our Physical Education and Sports program to thrive at CCA. So, with the help of the Board, Mrs. Lawrence and many others, the vision and planning of building a new gymnasium started to evolve. We began to fundraise and pray and the Lord began to provide for us to build. Before we broke ground, we had the kids stand around the area of where the new gymnasium was going to be placed. I remember Mr. McNamara, myself and others broke ground with shovels in our hands and hard hats on our heads. Before they laid the wood down on the gym floor, I had all of my phys. ed classes write Scripture verses on the concrete to represent that this building is being built upon the foundation of God’s Word. Through this whole process, we watched God’s faithfulness unfold and praised Him through every part of it. Fast forwarding 20 years later, I can see how God is using this gymnasium to bring children closer to Him, and we are blessed to see them use their talents and abilities to glorify Him. I love seeing our logo in the middle of the gym floor that says, “Perseverance, Character, and Hope” with a cross at the center. It is a good reminder for us to recognize God’s grace and how He is at the center of all that we do here at CCA. God is faithful and we can trust Him with our plans and future at this school.
Rachael Baio • ATHLETIC PREFECT
The Emmanuel Athletic Facility was dedicated on Saturday, September 25, two decades ago. While serving as President of the Board Mr. David DeRose led them through the realization of this dream during the years 2002-2004. Current Music and Band teacher, Mrs. Shipley, was instrumental in the dedication service accompanying attendees through “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee,” and many other songs proclaiming God’s mighty power. The Dedication began in the Auditorium and moved to multiple Ribbon Cuttings. It took many hands to contribute to the project including Cathy Tom who still serves as physical education teacher at CCA. Don Buckley managed the project through Lamparelli Construction Company and Dean Sutton Architects. CCA was able to raise over a million dollars in cash and pledges. Tom Ranallo (Vice-President of the Board) and David Young made a paver fundraiser project a reality and brought in over $50,000. A generous anonymous donor provided half a million dollars in funds to name the Emmanuel. With twothirds of the funding, the Board took a leap of faith and broke ground on May 17, 2004. Head of School Mrs. Nurline Lawrence hosted the dedication with Mr. Kit Burr, Athletic Director. CCA is still proclaiming the truth today that was part of the dedication twenty years ago, “Thanks be to God for His faithful servants. Today we celebrate the mercies of God.” Hometown • Buffalo, NY
Cathy Tom
Crusader Sports • Basketball, Softball Hobbies • Softball and coaching children at my mom’s gym
Future Plans • I am looking to major in either Sports Management or Business but likely both.
Favorite Verse • For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 (NLT)
God’s Faithfulness • God has been faithful in my life by giving me new opportunities that have shaped me into the person I am now. And I thank him every day for it.
Colleges • Niagara University, Suny Geneseo, Houghton University, Syracuse University
CCA Prep • CCA to me is different from other schools because of how all the teachers have displayed godly love and values. Being at CCA has prepared me to be ready for trials of my faith and how to seek God even through the hardships.
Faithful Family
CCA is filled with families who are faithful and have seen the faithfulness of God. The fruits of faith are evident in their intentional decisions to consistently be involved at CCA as well as send their children to school here.
Christian Central Academy is a very special part of our family’s story. We have enrolled seven of our eight children in CCA for all or part of their high school education. This was a big step for us from homeschooling them; but while we were at our oldest son John’s shadow day in 2001 we heard Mrs. Lawrence praying over the intercom and knew this was the place for us. We felt the power of her prayers and could tell she had a close relationship with the Lord. We have had children in CCA over a span of 23 years. During most of that time Mrs. Lawrence was the Head of School, and we watched the school grow under her guidance and prayers. When you entered the school chapel on Monday mornings during those years you could feel the Holy Spirit’s presence. We feel that Prayer has been the legacy she passed on to students and future Administrations and the key to the school’s survival in the face of satan’s attacks. In 2022 our youngest son, Aaron, enrolled in CCA as a Junior. What made that day uniquely blessed for our family was that it was also the first day of kindergarten at CCA for his niece, Audrey, whose mother is our daughter, Abigail, and also happens to be a 2009 graduate of CCA. Aaron graduated in 2024, and we now have two grandchildren in CCA’s elementary school. Another blessing from sending our children to CCA is that two of our sons married their CCA high school sweethearts. So now our family consists of 9 CCA alumni! We continue to be involved with volunteering at and promoting CCA because it is really one of the few educational alternatives for Christians who want to provide their children with a Godly worldview. And we feel blessed to have been able to send our children there.
As I reflect on my time at CCA and what it means to my family now, I am continually reminded of God’s faithfulness through the lessons learned and through the community we have built through school and are continuing to build. As a high school graduate of CCA and now a parent sending my own children to CCA, I am so grateful that CCA exists to provide an environment where teachers, students and families join together to create a unique community. The community at CCA is what makes it so special, and my husband and I are so thankful that we have the opportunity to send our children to a place where God's love and faithfulness is incorporated into every aspect of their education. It’s fun to see how CCA has impacted my life as well as my seven siblings' lives. We have made lasting friendships and even gained new family members. CCA is not just a school but a community that encourages one another to grow and live out their faith in a meaningful way.
Henry
God’s Word tells us there are many parts to the body of believers in a community, each one making its own unique and special contribution to The Kingdom. Some are hands or feet, but all are important and fitted together perfectly to accomplish God’s purposes. The same is true for churches and Christian schools as it is their mission to preach the word, lead the unsaved to Christ, instill Christlike values and inspire missional purpose in each follower of Jesus. Each dedicated administrator, teacher, parent and student who has ever been involved with Christian Central Academy has experienced the blessing of seeing the impact this wonderful school has had on individuals, families and the community. This school with its high academic standards, just as a thriving well attended vine, deeply rooted in God’s word, has produced much fruit. The Holy Spirit is clearly at work at CCA.
On a personal level, our family has had the opportunity to make some contribution to the school in various ways and has likewise seen the children grow into contributing leaders and citizens, both in the church and in the world. My wife, Sonya Latham Grabau, served alongside the many dedicated teachers who have help shaped these children both spiritually and academically. It was a privilege and pleasure for me to serve on the board under the amazing inspired leadership of Nurline Lawrence. Our son, David Grabau, became the man he is today through the consistent guidance and direction of our church, Christian Central Academy and family. Now his two daughters, Genevieve and Juliette, are prospering and growing at CCA. We are indeed blessed!!
We have all prayed consistently for the school, supported their ministries and given God all the praise and glory along the way. Until our Lord returns, we are confident that CCA will uphold its high standards and remain a shining light for Jesus.
Robert Grabau
Juliette
Jeff & Mary Wittlinger Genevieve
Abby (Wittlinger) Pappas
CCA has been a gift to us for many years, and we are incredibly thankful that it was the place that initially brought Matt and I together. Matt and I attended CCA together, beginning in 7th grade. While we were mere acquaintances in years prior, we began to develop a deep friendship in high school. What began as a beautiful friendship turned into us getting married after college! God certainly works in marvelous ways. Matt and I lived in Cincinnati for 12 years but moved back to Buffalo the summer before to our oldest, Benjamin, began kindergarten. Upon returning back to Buffalo, we knew that CCA was a potential option, and even though we were both former students of CCA, we were unsure if CCA was the right fit for our children. We wanted to be sure that sending our children to CCA was the right choice for our family--not because we attended there, but because it’s where we felt God leading us. After we toured CCA, the Holy Spirit gave me an immediate peace about sending our young son into kindergarten there. Taking into consideration all of the worldly influences that children are exposed to and knowing that Benjamin would be away from us for the majority of the day, CCA brought a sense of security and calm to my heart. We are overjoyed to be a part of CCA as parents of four students, and take great delight in trusting in God’s forever faithfulness.
Katie (Speciale) Stewart
George
Our first exposure to Christian Central Academy was in the early 1980’s when our niece and nephews (Laura, TJ, & David Stewart) were attending there. We went to numerous programs, concerts and sporting events and were always impressed by the Christ-centered focus and the sense of community. Ten years later, when it came time for our twin daughters, Sarah and Katie, to begin kindergarten, and then later our third daughter Melissa; God made it clear that CCA was the place to begin their educational journey. CCA provided excellent educational standards and also supported and reinforced the Christian faith and values that our children were learning at home and at church. From the first day of kindergarten until high school graduation, we watched our children grow physically, academically and spiritually. Through successes and challenges, we were always supported and loved by the faculty and staff - we felt like part of an extended family!
Having experienced the close-knit community of private school education from kindergarten through 12th grade, I knew I wanted to pass on that legacy to my own three children. My years at CCA were filled with, not only academic growth but also, the kind of emotional and spiritual support that shaped me into who I am today. When it came time for me to choose a school for my own children, Dylan, Christopher & Charlie, the decision was easy for my husband, Matt, and me. I remember the sense of security and innocence that defined my childhood, and I’m determined to give my children the same foundation. The teachers who once felt like family to me are now the kind of mentors I want my children to have, helping guide them not just academically but also in their spiritual journey.
We thank God for the presence of CCA in our community and for the Board, administrators, faculty, staff, students and families - past, present and future - who have faithfully supported the mission of CCA. To God be the glory!
DESIGN PREFECT
Hometown • West Seneca, NY
Crusader Sports • Volleyball and Track Clubs • Drama
Hobbies • Drawing and Reading
Future Plans
• I am looking to major in Psychology and Interior Design.
Favorite Verse • Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
God’s Faithfulness • God has given me many opportunities to improve myself and His glory.
Colleges • NY School of Interior Design, Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) and Villa Maria
CCA Prep • CCA has given me an opportunity to further my academics and extra activities.
Homecoming 2024
by: DeLet Abdul, Dean of Student Life
God is faithful to His mission and to His people. This year we celebrated our 75th anniversary throughout spirit week and homecoming weekend. We enjoyed a week filled with fun, excitement, appreciation and worship.
Students, faculty and staff alike participated in spirit week, dressing in fun outfits each day. Some of the themes included “Dress like a Teacher” and “Favorite Sports Team.” Every class received participation points all week long and the winners are as follows:
• K-Gr 5 - a tie between 2nd and 3rd grade!
• Middle School - 7th grade
• High School - 11th grade
Each class won not only bragging rights, but a gift card for a free Yotality treat.
During our Grade 6-12 Chapel on Wednesday, House Leaders taught about the achievements and impact on the faith of each man that the houses are named after: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Jonathan Edwards, and C.S. Lewis.
On the final day of spirit week, we had our first pep rally of the year. We introduced all of our fall athletes, unveiled our basketball championship banner, and inducted all new students and teachers into our House system. This was followed by our annual Powder Puff football games, where the high school girls play, the teachers coach and the boys cheer for their grade. This year the 11th graders (red team) won the tournament.
Sept 27 Spirit Week
Adding to the excitement of football, there was a Mac & Cheese cook-off Friday Night during the bonfire. Four families participated, and each one was absolutely delicious. The winner with the most votes was Mrs. Yvonne Napoli, CCA’s very own 5th grade teacher.
On Saturday, CCA enjoyed a bike parade of PreK-Grade 5 riders, followed by a float parade from Grades 6-12. This year’s theme was “Fruits of the Spirit” and each float represented a different fruit. This may have been the best float parade we’ve seen in a while - each one was amazing and well thought out. Our panel of judges voted the 11th grade class to be the winners (photo at the top). Floats were judged on creativity, content and completion. The Juniors showcased an original rap song, line dancing and a devotional from the book of Isaiah!
Our 2nd grade class, in conjunction with Anderson’s, sold their original creation Crusader Cookie Crunch ice cream after lunch. It was heavenly! Last year while Miss McKee and Mrs. Woodward’s first graders, they submitted their idea to the NY Agriculture in the Classroom ice cream challenge and won second place for their proposal.
Both our Varsity soccer team and our Girl’s volleyball team won their home games against The Gow School. We were honored to have our Head of School Emeritus, Mrs. Nurline Lawrence, not only in attendance but also for the inspirational address she delivered. It was a wonderful week to be mindful of all that God has done and all He is doing at CCA. He is faithful.
CHAPEL/SPIRITUAL FORMATION PREFECT • John
Hometown • Clarence, NY
Hobbies • Martial Arts, Video Editing and Music Composition Clubs • Drama
Future Plans • I am planning to major in Animation with a Music Production minor.
Favorite Verse • Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. Acts 5:41 (ESV)
God’s Faithfulness • God has given me a heart removed of anxiety, and one that can focus purely on the present, and not worry about any future circumstance
Colleges • Villa Maria
CCA Prep • CCA offers a unique Christian education, where discussions about theology and Christian teachings are open in every class, and the root of all learning
Seniors(blue) and Freshmen (yellow) compete during Powder Puff games after school on Friday.
Juniors (red), overall winners in 2024, face the Sophomores.
Mr. Napoli’s class donned mustaches in his likeness.
Coach S. Kevin McNamara
Annual Alumni Soccer Game
Great job to our 2003-2023 Alumni who came out to play soccer.
Maeghan O’Hara • CHAPEL/SPIRITUAL FORMATION PREFECT
Hometown • Williamsville, NY
Alumni Relations
Hobbies • Ceramics, Reading and Biking
• My brother, Sean ‘21 and my younger sister, Clover, graduating in 2031.
Crusader Sports • Volleyball and Basketball
Future Plans
Favorite Verse
Clubs • Art and Drama
• I would like to major in business and minor in ceramics.
• My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever Psalm 73:26 (ESV)
God’s Faithfulness
• God has been faithful to me throughout the course of my life. Whenever I was struggling with something, God always revealed to me later why I was put through that and it has helped me grow my faith with Him. He has given me a great family, school, and friend group that I can spend my time with and be able to have relationships with through Him. At my job, He is also faithful and has helped me when interacting with co-workers who don’t believe the same thing I do.
Colleges • Alfred University, University at Buffalo, Kent State CCA Prep • CCA has a great welcoming community that helps guide me along the right path. It has helped prepare me for life outside of school by giving me life lessons and knowledge to better defend my faith.
Head of School Emeritus Nurline Lawrence visiting with families in the Alumni Tent. Past teachers also hung out and reconnected.
“Faithfulness” Float filled with Sophomores.
Sixth grader, Vaughn Zapp, proclaiming “Peace.”
Second graders sell “Crusader Cookie Crunch” ice cream homemade by Anderson’s.
Elementary students set off on the Bike Parade.
Freshmen display “Goodness” throughout Williamsville
2020s
Abigail Ruhl ’21 is currently pursuing her college degree at Grove City College in Pennsylvania. She is on track to graduate in Spring 2025 with a major in Communication Arts and minors in Design and Musical Theater. Her passion lies in freelance design, specializing in branding and print design. She is excited to build a career in this creative field.
Abby’s time at CCA was filled with particularly fond memories from her involvement in the theater department. “It was a space to work creatively with other students of different grades and come together to bring a story
2010s
Kaleb Colosimo, a 2014 graduate, has followed an impactful career path in the field of mental health. After earning degrees from both Roberts Wesleyan University and SUNY Brockport, Kaleb now operates his own private counseling practice in Rochester and serves as the Community Counselor at Buffalo Seminary.
Reflecting on his educational journey, Kaleb credits CCA with preparing him for success. “The writing, research, and timemanagement skills I learned at CCA left me feeling confident when I started taking higher-level college courses,” he shares. “My time there was essential in building a strong foundation for my future.”
Kaleb’s passion for helping others began early. After completing his double major in Communication and Psychology at Rob-
to life,” she recalls. The mentorship and friendship she received from CCA Drama Director Jennifer Helfrich made a lasting impact on Abby.
Academically, she credits CCA with providing a solid foundation, especially in preparing her for college writing. “I greatly appreciate the time CCA English teachers took to teach us MLA format. As a humanities major in college, I live and breathe MLA, and I’m so glad I learned it early on,” she shares. Abby cherishes her copy of The Little Seagull, still keeping it on her bookshelf.
Several teachers at CCA played pivotal roles in shaping Abigail’s faith and future career. Mrs. Baldwin, her senior year Bible teacher, helped deepen her faith through meaningful discussions, particularly around C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity. Abigail’s pas-
erts Wesleyan, Kaleb spent a year working as a crisis counselor for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This experience solidified his decision to pursue graduate studies in Mental Health Counseling, which he completed at SUNY Brockport.
Looking back on his time at CCA, Kaleb recalls some of his favorite moments, especially participating in theatrical productions like Harvey and The Diary of Anne Frank His time on the bowling and flag football teams helped shape his confidence and sense of teamwork.
God has been Faithful through the Decades at CCA. Here is where Alumni have seen him Shine lately.
sion for graphic design was discovered under the guidance of Mrs. Kristin Guerin, high school art teacher, who introduced her to the Adobe Suite. “The teachers of CCA have such big hearts for the students, and it was wonderful to grow in a school where you were cared for,” she reflects.
This past summer, Abigail’s CCA connections helped her secure an internship at The Chapel at Crosspoint, where she worked part-time using her graphic design skills. Reconnecting with CCA families and serving in her home church was a meaningful experience for her, and she is excited to see where her career will take her next.
As faith continues to play a central role in her personal and professional life, Abby strives to place God at the center of every decision and to walk by faith in the path He leads her on.
tunities as Head Prefect to explore and hone my leadership skills,” he says. “Her confidence in me and mentorship played a big part in my growth. Mrs. Helfrich also made a huge impact by fostering my love of theater and giving me opportunities to stretch myself and grow.”
Kaleb also notes the influence of key mentors during his time at CCA. “Mrs. Lawrence gave me many oppor-
Kaleb offers this advice: “Remain open to learning about yourself along the way. My career trajectory changed so many times during my educational journey. You don’t have to have your life figured out yet—it’s a time to explore!”
Kaleb credits CCA for helping him become a compassionate mental health counselor making a difference in the lives of many.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of these esteemed alumni, we’re reminded of the lasting impact CCA has on the lives of those who walk its halls. We invite CCA Alumni to continue sharing their stories, for within each narrative lies inspiration and the power to motivate the generations that follow. If you are willing to share your story, we would love to hear from you!
2000s
Dan McLaughlin ‘01 has walked a remarkable path since his high school days. Reflecting on the impact CCA had on his journey, Dan shared how the values, friendships, and foundational skills he gained at CCA continue to influence his life, both personally and professionally. After graduating from CCA, Dan pursued his passion for ministry by attending Zion Bible College (now Northpoint Bible College) in Rhode Island, where he earned his B.A. in Bible & Theology. "CCA definitely prepared me for the rigors of higher education and, in many ways, has influenced my work ethic and approach to professional problem-solving to this day," Dan notes. During his time at Zion, Dan met his wife, Hallie, and together they embarked on a journey that would see them serving in various ministry roles across the country beginning in Berlin, CT. Dan’s leadership continued to expand when, in 2011, he became the Executive Pastor at First Assembly of God (now The Bridge) in Niagara Falls, NY. During this time, his church helped plant three new churches in the Buffalo region. “Lumber City Church, Nickel City Church, and Steel City Church are all thriving today,” Dan says with pride. In 2016, Dan earned his M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Regent
1990s
After graduating from Christian Central Academy in 1992, Dr. Craig Horbinski embarked on an impressive journey in the medical field. He completed a Biology degree at Canisius University, followed by a seven-year combined M.D./Ph.D. program at the University at Buffalo. His graduate research focused on developmental neuroscience, requiring countless hours at the microscope studying neuronal growth. This experience fostered a love of microscopy, leading him to the University of Pittsburgh for a residency in Anatomic Pathology plus a fellowship in Neuropathology.
University. That same year, he stepped into a new role as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent for the Assemblies of God New York Ministry Network (NYMN), which serves over 300 churches across New York State. In 2020, Dan was elected as Secretary/ Treasurer for the NYMN, where he now oversees minister credentialing, assists churches with organizational needs, and manages the network’s ministry school. He and Hallie also stay busy raising their eight children: Amos, Audrey, Elam, Silas, Abel, Ella, Truly, and Nahum.
When asked about a favorite memory from his time at CCA, Dan fondly recalls the unforgettable Junior trip to Washington, D.C. “I’m not sure how our teachers got it approved, but we traveled there by limo bus! We felt like celebrities!" Throughout his CCA years, Dan encountered several teachers who left a profound influence on his life. “Where to start?” he says with a smile. “Our class advisors, Mrs. Pontrello and Mrs. Conschafter—Mrs. P & Mrs. C as we called them—were absolutely wonderful. They were always encouraging and took a genuine interest in our lives both during and after our time at CCA.” Dan continues to express gratitude for Dr. Drake, who challenged him to go deeper in
sity in 2015. Today, he is a full tenured Professor and the Medical Director of Neuropathology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Additionally, he holds several leadership roles, including Director of the Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center Pathology Core Facility, Director of the Nervous System Tumor Bank, and Scientific Director for the American Brain Tumor Association.
his faith during Bible classes. Mr. Bowman and Mr. Richbart were standout math teachers whose humble spirits and compassionate guidance showed Dan the love of God. But it was his AP English teacher, Mrs. Hill, who likely had the most significant impact. “She challenged me toward excellence and prepared me more than anyone for higher education. Her influence still shapes how I approach challenges today.”
In 2021, he helped organize their 20-year reunion—done via Zoom due to COVID—where they reminisced about their time at CCA and relived special memories. “It’s challenging, but many of us do stay in touch. We’ve tried to attend each other’s weddings and keep up on social media,” he shares. Whether through ministry, family, or leadership, the lessons Dan learned at CCA continue to guide his path.
one was supposed to use that stock solution flask for their experiments, I’d ruined it for the whole class. Wish I could say that was the last experiment I ever wrecked, but my career is littered with them. Such is the nature of science.”
During his training, Dr. Horbinski became fascinated with tumors of the central nervous system, deciding to specialize in this area. He served as junior faculty at the University of Kentucky for six years before moving to Northwestern Univer-
Reflecting on CCA, Dr. Horbinski recalls a memorable moment, “I remember being in Chemistry class as a junior and accidentally sticking the wrong pipet into the wrong flask of stock solution. The clear solution in that flask instantly turned magenta, which was most definitely NOT supposed to happen. I’d obviously contaminated the stock solution with a pipet that contained drops of a different solution, causing a substantial acid-base chemical reaction. Since every-
Dr. Horbinski remembers Lois Frazita, his first and third grade teacher, who recognized his academic potential and encouraged him to stretch himself as far as he could go. “Science is an indispensable tool for understanding how the world works, but it cannot tell you how to properly conduct yourself in it. It can tell you how to build a nuclear bomb or create a lethal super virus, but not whether you should.”
He cites 2 Corinthians 4:18: “For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal,” highlighting the importance of looking beyond the tangible to find true guidance in life. Dr. Horbinski’s journey from CCA to his current role at Northwestern Medicine Neurosciences is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Your Christian values are important, and you want to make the most of the resources entrusted to you So when it comes to planning for your financial goals, you want an advisor who understands and supports your Christian world view
We can help We offer financial planning and advice rooted in biblical principles of stewardship Whether you want to provide for your loved ones, support the com munity, or save for the future, we can help you plan for your goals in a way that is consistent with your Christian faith
