ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR…..
Andy McConnell
Alumnus of the Year Andrew Kendall McConnell, Class of 1988
Dear Alumni and Friends,
It is a joy to welcome you to this edition of the Cornerstones Magazine.
As I reflect on the start of this school year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the ways God is blessing our campus. This fall, Highland Academy is home to 128 students—representing 5 different countries and 11 states! Each student brings a unique story, culture, and perspective that enriches our community and reminds us of God’s incredible faithfulness.
Highland’s story, however, is not written by students alone. Our alumni play a vital role in keeping this campus alive and thriving. Through your prayers, support, and gifts of time, you help create events that bring us together, provide resources that strengthen our mission, and open doors of opportunity for our young people. Just as importantly, your connections serve as a bridge—linking the legacy of the past with the promise of the future.
Within these pages, you’ll read about exciting changes on campus, including the transformation of Ray Hall into a welcoming hub for students, staff, and visitors. You’ll also find stories of the dedication, growth, and service that define our Highland family.
The words of Philippians 1:6 remind us: “Being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” This promise is lived out daily at Highland, and we are thankful that you, our alumni and friends, are part of that good work.
With gratitude,
Stephanie Rufo
Stephanie Rufo Director of Marketing, Communications and Alumni
Andrew Kendall McConnell was born on August 19, 1969, in Niles, Michigan, to Jim and Jan McConnell. During his youth, Andy attended a variety of public and church schools while living in the KYTN Conference, eventually enrolling at University Heights Academy. He found his true school home at Highland Academy, where he graduated with the Class of 1988—an experience and community he cherished for the rest of his life.
Following Highland, Andy pursued higher education at Southern College and completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Technology at Andrews University in 1993. Early in his career, he worked at Lithotech in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and later returned to Andrews University to teach computer classes and oversee a computer lab—sharing his knowledge and passion for technology with the next generation.
In 1999, Andy met the love of his life, Lianne Nelson, and they married on May 14, 2000, making their home in Lincoln, Nebraska. While working at Christian Record Services, they welcomed their first daughter, Karis. Less than a year later, the family moved to Shepherdsville, Kentucky, where they were blessed again with the birth of their second daughter, Katie— both Karis and Katie would later follow in
their father’s footsteps by graduating from Highland Academy, a school so dear to Andy’s heart.
Andy lived a life of service, working diligently alongside his parents in their rental business while managing properties of his own. Yet it was never just about work for Andy—he poured his time, talents, and heart into his family, his friends, his church, and the school communities he loved. Wherever he was, Andy sought to make a positive difference.
Tragically, in October 2022, Andy’s life was cut short in a car accident—happening, in true Andy fashion, while he was burning the midnight oil to help others. His heart for service, his deep love for Highland Academy, and his faithful spirit leave behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
Andy is survived by his loving wife, Lianne McConnell; his cherished daughters, Karis and Katie McConnell; and his devoted parents, Jim and Jan McConnell.
Andy’s life reminds us that the truest measure of a person is not found in what they have, but in the lives they touch. His love for Highland Academy, his community, and his family shines on through all who were blessed to know him.
“The truest measure of a life is not in what we gain, but in the lives we touch.”
When Otto Del Toro Jr.
Church, he saw both potential and a significant challenge. The churchyard was far from ideal for recreation. It contained only a small volleyball court and a steep slope with a deep trench, making it unsafe and impractical for most activities. Rather than accepting those limitations, Del Toro envisioned something bigger: to transform the rugged terrain into a soccer field that the young people of the church could enjoy for years to come. What started as a simple idea to create more space for youth fellowship has since evolved into a powerful ministry tool.
THE VISION
The idea wasn’t just about sports. Del Toro, now a theology student at Southern Adventist University, said the vision was clear from the beginning.
“In Hispanic culture, soccer is more than just a sport, it’s a way for young people to come together,” Del Toro said. “It makes it easier to make friends and invite others. People may not want to come to church, but they will come for a [soccer] game.”
THE WORK
Turning that vision into reality wasn’t easy. The church’s backyard sloped dramatically, with a deep trench cutting through part of the land. Buying enough dirt to level the area was too costly, so Del Toro came up with another plan.
“We decided to scrape the mountain and bring the dirt down,” Del Toro said. “We used what we had.”
Construction began in November 2024. Volunteers from the church spent months hauling soil, leveling the ground, and preparing the site for grass. Students from Highland Academy, where Del Toro was a senior at the time, also came to help. The final cost of the project came to about $3,000; all raised through the donations of church members who shared Del Toro’s vision.
“One brother gave the grass seed, another paid for grading,” Del Toro said. “Everyone gave from their own pocket to make this a reality. Without the church’s support, this would have been impossible.”
THE KICKOFF
By May 2025, the field was ready, and the group wasted no time putting it to use. The first celebration was a youth program held outdoors, followed by a soccer game that stretched into the evening.
For Del Toro, the project was as much physical as it was spiritual. Balancing school responsibilities with construction work was challenging, but the experience strengthened his faith.
“I learned that nothing is impossible if you put it in God’s hands,” Del Toro said. “If the purpose goes beyond yourself, God will provide the resources and the people.”
Since games began on the new field, three young men begun attending the Madison Hispanic Church after being invited to play.
Although the church plans additional improvements, such as reseeding the field after a harsh summer and installing bleachers, Del Toro is grateful for the blessings the project has already brought. Now in college, he hopes the church will keep the ministry alive.
“My prayer is that they don’t let it die,” Del Toro said. “That in the future, we’ll see even more young people in our church because of what started with this field.”
Ray Hall
A Strategic Transformation at
As part of Highland Academy’s comprehensive five-year strategic plan, Ray Hall—affectionately known as the Admin Building—has undergone a remarkable transformation to better serve the evolving needs of our campus community. The initial phase of the renovation focused on enhancing the building’s functionality and welcoming atmosphere. The front porch was enclosed to create a dedicated welcome center, featuring a large reception window staffed by student workers. This area now houses the offices of the principal, administrative assistant, and business manager, streamlining administrative operations. The relocation of these offices freed up space for a new conference room, which was promptly repurposed into a classroom to accommodate our growing student body.
Building upon these improvements, the most recent renovation targeted the media center. Under the skilled leadership of Andy Wade, Highland Academy’s Landscape Director and resident craftsman, the media center underwent a complete overhaul. Over the summer, walls were demolished, outdated desks removed, and the ceiling taken down. A notable feature— the recessed ceiling—was carefully lowered to eye level and repositioned to the center of the room by a team of skilled laborers, ensuring its integrity remained intact. Once in place, the ceiling was restored, and the projector and screen were reinstalled. New lighting fixtures and ceiling tiles were then added to complete the transformation.
Over the course of three months, the media center was revitalized with fresh paint, new carpeting, and the construction of two study rooms and a comfortable lounge area. The introduction of rolling bookshelves allowed for a more flexible arrangement of library materials, while new student tables and chairs enhanced the functionality of the space. A standout addition is the electric fireplace with a customizable flame color feature, providing both warmth and ambiance.
In addition to these interior enhancements, a new Alumni Composite Hallway was established to honor the legacy of Highland Academy graduates. This dedicated space features uniformly sized frames and updated gallery glass designed to prevent sun damage, ensuring that the memories of past classes are preserved for future generations.
The renovated media center and Alumni Composite Hallway have quickly become favorite gathering spots for students and visitors alike, offering modern and inviting environments for study, collaboration, and reflection. These transformations exemplify Highland Academy’s commitment to creating spaces that support academic excellence and foster a sense of community.
We invite alumni to visit and experience the renewed Ray Hall, a testament to our ongoing dedication to providing an enriching educational environment.
Highland Academy is proud to announce the completion of a major renovation to its campus kitchen—a transformation driven by both necessity and a commitment to providing a safe, modern food-service environment for students and staff.
The former kitchen, having served the campus faithfully for decades, had reached a point where significant updates were needed. Aging infrastructure and emerging safety concerns made it clear that a comprehensive overhaul was essential. Plans were set for construction to begin immediately following Camp Meeting; however, unexpected permitting challenges delayed the start until mid-July.
That delay created enormous pressure on the school and especially the food service team, who continued feeding the entire campus from a 28-foot mobile kitchen trailer throughout the hottest months of the summer and well into the fall. From August through the middle of October, the team prepared every meal outdoors, demonstrating remarkable dedication, resilience, and creativity to ensure uninterrupted service for students, staff and guests.
The renovation project included a full modernization of the kitchen space. Crews installed brand-new commercial appliances, updated ductwork and a high-capacity hood system, upgraded lighting, and implemented a significantly improved ventilation system. Together, these upgrades not only enhance efficiency and safety but also position the academy’s food-service program for continued growth in the years ahead.
Highland Academy extends gratitude to the food service staff, construction teams, and supporters who made the project possible. The renovated kitchen stands as a testament to perseverance and teamwork—and serves as an exciting investment in the daily life of every student.
Highland Academy Unveils
Newly Renovated Kitchen
Chadd Watkins Principal
Goats, Ducks, and Sheep Oh My . . .
For the past four years, Highland Academy’s equestrian program has been a lively and beloved part of campus life. Led by a dedicated team, the program continues to enrich student experiences through hands-on learning and special events— like this year’s Fall Festival petting zoo and horsemanship classes offered to all grades. The vision for the program began with former Vice President of Development, Eric Johnson, who shared the idea with current Equestrian Director, Sara Bagshaw. Together, they launched what has become one of Highland’s most unique and engaging programs—one that continues to grow each year. This past summer, the campus welcomed new residents, including several goats and sheep.
Recently, the program has expanded even further with the addition of six ducklings, as well as baby goats and sheep arriving this fall and winter. The ducklings spent their first weeks living in the grounds building until they were ready for the outdoors. Fun fact: Ms. Bagshaw went to Tractor Supply to buy goat feed and came back with six ducklings—thanks in part to a donation from the store!
With the ducklings’ arrival came a creative new project—a floating duck house for the campus pond. The student workers spent about three days, four hours each day, building it.
The first version didn’t quite hold its anchor, but after some trial and error, the final duck house now rests proudly on the water, thanks to student workers, Aiden Naumann and CB Bagshaw, who braved the pond waters to secure it.
The equestrian program also continues to house the horses from Indian Creek Camp
during the school year. Through Highland’s work program, students provide daily care, feeding, and exercise for these horses—keeping them healthy, trained, and ready to ride. Many students love having this opportunity not only as a campus job, but also as a way to earn physical education credit while doing something they truly enjoy.
Excitement continues in the goat pasture—baby goats are expected between late September and early October, while the sheep are due in January. However, since Wilson, our young ram, is still maturing, the team is keeping expectations flexible for new lambs this season.
The benefits of having farm animals on campus go far beyond fun. Caring for animals provides hands-on learning experiences, helps foster social-emotional health, builds responsibility and empathy, and even reduces stress and anxiety. These everyday moments—feeding, brushing, or simply spending time with the animals—contribute to a nurturing environment that supports both personal and spiritual growth.
It’s a bustling time for Highland’s equestrian crew, but their hard work is paying off. The program adds joy, learning, and life to campus— making Highland Academy a truly well-rounded and dynamic educational environment.
Animal Update: As of January 2026, the equestrian family has grown again! The equestrian programs now have 17 goats, 16 sheep, 3 ducks and 16 horses. Stop by the pasture to meet these adorable new additions!
Highland Academy Students Bring Hope to North Carolina After Hurricane Helene for 2nd year in a row
By Lulu Lopez
On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Big Bend region as a powerful Category 4 storm, leaving a trail of devastation in its path. With an estimated $78.8 billion in damages and approximately 252 lives lost, the storm was among the most destructive in recent history. Its impact reached far beyond Florida. Record-breaking rainfall inundated western North Carolina, causing rivers to overflow and unleashing floods that swallowed towns, washed away homes and infrastructure, and triggered mudslides across the mountains. Entire communities were left in darkness— cut off from power, transportation, and communication for weeks.
Amid this devastation, Highland Academy students stepped forward—not once, but twice—to offer help and hope.
First Response: October Relief
In the early weeks of October 2024, just after the storm subsided, Highland Academy organized a group of students to travel to Asheville and surrounding areas. Their mission was simple yet profound: to bring relief and share the love of Christ through service. Students connected with families and communities, lending hands where needed and hearts filled with compassion. Their presence demonstrated that even in the face of overwhelming destruction, unity and service can shine a light of hope.
Returning to Serve Again
This year, Pastor Will Labrenz reconnected with ministry leaders in Asheville to seek further opportunities for service. The outreach ministry of Arden Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed a second group of Highland students, providing meals, lodging, and facilities at no cost. From there, the students immersed themselves in projects ranging from food distribution to direct service in local neighborhoods.
Junior Kym Olvida expressed her motivation simply: “I just wanted to go out and help the community in North Carolina.” Senior Melissa Gongora echoed this heart for service, saying, “I want to help people and make them feel better—whether it’s cleaning, giving them food, or just making their day better.”
One particularly impactful visit was to a local family struggling to provide for five children. Overwhelmed by financial burdens, the family’s home was in need of care. The students wasted no time—sweeping floors, organizing clothes, washing dishes, moving furniture, and doing yard work. Their willingness to step in without hesitation spoke volumes about their character and their faith.
Feeding the Hungry, Lifting Spirits
On Friday, the group prepared and distributed 130 lunch bags to the homeless in downtown Asheville. They also joined Mount Pisgah Academy and a local elementary school for a special vespers program, strengthening bonds of faith and fellowship.
The trip was filled with small acts of kindness that left lasting impressions. Senior Ilanit Roth spent hours simply keeping an elderly woman company, brightening her day through conversation and care. For this act of compassion, she was recognized as Student of the Week.
For others, the trip was deeply personal. Junior Huai Huai described the experience as transformative:
“It had a life-changing impact on me. I’ve never done this type of service before. What really impacted me the most was helping the homeless. It made me see my true self and realize I could shine out there for others in need. It’s not only about service—it’s about giving glory to God. That’s what will make Him glad, and that’s what will change lives forever.”
A Continuing Mission of Hope
Though many months have passed since Hurricane Helene, the road to recovery in North Carolina is far from over. Communities are still rebuilding homes, restoring infrastructure, and healing from loss. The prayers and helping hands of many are still needed.
For Highland Academy, these mission trips are not just about service—they are about embodying Christ’s love, building relationships, and inspiring students to discover the joy of giving. And while this may not be the last time Highland lends a hand, it is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest storms, hope can rise again.
In the summer of 2023, Highland Academy received what can only be described as a blessing from God. A couple walked into my office with a simple question: “What are your dreams—your greatest needs for the school? Give us your top two.”
After some reflection, I shared two areas that weighed heavily on my mind. First, our growing need for additional campus housing—an essential factor in attracting and retaining dedicated staff as housing costs continue to rise. With our school continuing to grow, housing affordability had become a real challenge. Second, I expressed the need for additional worthy student funding to help families who desire an Adventist education but face financial barriers.
While communicating needs and goals is a regular part of my role, I never expected what came next. They looked at me and said, “We’re going to make those dreams become a reality.”
Two years later, both of those dreams are now actively unfolding.
One part of that blessing became visible this summer as construction began on a brandnew home designated specifically for the Highland Academy principal. Located about a mile from campus, the new residence will not only help address our immediate housing needs but will also serve as an attractive benefit for future leadership. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity this home will provide—a place intentionally designed with hospitality in mind, where students, staff, and families can gather, connect, and experience the sense of community that defines Highland Academy. The project is well underway and scheduled for completion in April 2026.
The second part of that blessing is equally significant. Alongside the housing initiative, the donors established a Worthy Student Endowment—a substantial, long-term investment dedicated to supporting families who seek a Christ-centered, Adventist education for their children. This endowment strengthens our financial aid program and ensures that Highland Academy can continue fulfilling its mission for generations to come.
These two initiatives—expanding staff housing and increasing worthy student support— stand as powerful testimonies to generosity, vision, and unwavering belief in the mission of Highland Academy. They will shape our campus, bless our families, and support our staff well into the future.
As principal, I am humbled and profoundly grateful. Dreams shared in a quiet office conversation are now becoming reality—realities that will strengthen Highland Academy today and far beyond. While there are many worthy causes to support, I am especially grateful for those who believe in Highland Academy’s mission and choose to invest in opportunities for young people to experience Adventist education.
Chadd Watkins
Chadd Watkins, Principal
of Highland Academy
By Albert Dittes
The Highland Adventist complex, consisting of elementary and secondary schools as well as a nursing home (originally a sanitarium and hospital) started out as an extension of the self-supporting institution along the Cumberland River later known as Madison College. The original intent of this unique educational enterprise was to train families to start similar educational-medical centers throughout the then-underprivileged Southeast, an area with just a token Adventist presence.
The Madison founders started their lay enterprise in the fall of 1904. Around 1906, two of their charter students went a short distance away to what is now Millersville, Tenn., and started their enterprise along Bethel Road. An old cemetery now marks the site of their farm and later school.
In his doctoral dissertation at George Peabody College for Teachers in Nashville, a future president of Madison College, William Sandborn, described their initial work.
“About one and one-half years after the opening of the Madison School, two of the young male students-C.F. Alden and B.N. Mulford--caught the vision and launched forth to start a community work. They traveled about 15 miles northwest of the school and settled down on 250 acres of wooded land. Only seven acres was cleared--clay land that had been used for nearly 100 years in the cultivation of tobacco.”
“The neighbors eyed them with concern and insinuated that nothing would grow on that worn-out land. These two hardy souls were not to be discouraged, for they had come into this area to show the people how to live better, how to cultivate the soil and grow food as well as tobacco. These men had some ideas about agriculture to teach the people.”
And so their witness began by earning the trust of the community.
“They first plowed the field with a turning-plow and followed the process with a bull-tongue plow, thus turning to the surface soil that had not seen the light of day for nearly a century. They planted tomatoes and reaped a crop such as had never been seen by the natives. The eyes of the community were opened and these men became the agricultural teachers and advisers of the entire area. People who had eyed these foreigners with suspicion now became their warmest friends.
This initial agricultural success revealed a community need they could fulfill.
“There had not been a school of any sort in the community for seven years. The last teacher had so much trouble that she got married and left. When the people found out that Mrs. Ashton, one of the company, was a school teacher, they asked her to open a school. Ere long the enrollment jumped to approximately 75 children.
“Now one can easily see the golden opportunity thus afforded for the enlightenment of not only the children but the entire community. These children were taught principles of healthful living such as cleanliness, care of their bodies, and better eating habits. Meat had been their principal item of diet, but now, learning the value of vegetables, they made vegetables a part of the diet, thus raising their standard of health and cutting down the incidence of disease.The children had carried these ideas home and undoubtedly had influenced their parents. In time the parents gathered together in meetings and were instructed by Alden and Mulford. Mrs. Ashton taught the women of the neighborhood how to bake wholesome whole wheat bread. Work of this kind was indeed a step toward the right type of education, for these people of the hills had never known
anything but corn pone and soda biscuits. The following quotation gives an insight concerning the initiative and practicability of Mrs. Ashton:
“Very few of the poor people in the backwoods districts of the South know anything about bread making. Usually corn-pone or hot biscuits is all the bread they have. But at the hack of the Alden cottage there now sits a unique oven, built of limestone picked off the farm, and dust taken from the middle of the road and mixed with lime and salt. The entire cost of the oven, aside from labor, was 40 cents.”
Sister Ashton, a practical baker who had formerly run a bakery in Pittsburg, built this oven with her own hands while the men cut saw-logs.
“Never was one cent charged to the people for education,” Sandborn concluded. “It was as free to both children and adults as were all other services rendered by these pioneers.”*
After working there for one year, young Braden Mulford moved on to Sumner County, rented a buggy in Gallatin and found a farm for sale near Fountain Head. His sister and brother-in-law, along with some others, joined him, starting out with a farm to grow their food and a living-room school for their children as well as students from the community with no school of their own. They raised enough money to start a sanitarium in 1916. The Kentucky-Tennessee Conference assumed operations there in 1945 and changed the name to Highland Academy.
Charles Alden later accepted the offer of the Sumner County school superintendent to make the Oak Grove Garden School part of the county system. After a fire destroyed the building, he became a principal in the county school system and died in 1935 as principal of the Portland High School, having distinguished himself as a teacher of agriculture.
*Excerpted from An Abstract of the History of Madison College by William Cruzan Sandborn. Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education George Peabody College for Teachers Nashville, TN August, 1953
Charles Alden
Braden Mulford
Highland Academy Students Bring Hope and Joy to the Philippines
On March 10, a group of 17 Highland Academy students and sponsors embarked on a 17-day mission trip to Cebu, Philippines. Their mission was to present health education, lead Vacation Bible School (VBS), and support local medical clinics—but the experience became so much more than they ever imagined.
After more than 18 hours of travel, the group was warmly welcomed by onsite coordinators—both medical physicians— who graciously opened their home, providing food and lodging for the entire team. Soon after, the students and sponsors divided into two groups. One remained in Cebu, while the other traveled to Butuan for three days to help paint and clean a local church. Along the way, students learned new skills, including how to make brooms out of palm branches and polish floors with coconuts.
In both locations, Highland students introduced the community to the health program NEWSTART—emphasizing nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest, and trust in God. Each evening, under the shelter of a simple basketball court, students led health talks, sang songs, and connected with children and adults through games and fellowship.
One of the greatest joys for the Highland team was spending time with local children. They handed out food, clothing, and
toys, while the Gymnix team inspired the crowd with acrobatics, stunts, and laughter. Medical clinics were also a major part of the mission, with seven doctors, twenty dentists, and two optometrists serving hundreds of patients. Highland students assisted by distributing vitamins, medications, and antibiotics, witnessing firsthand the difference that practical service and education can make.
“It was a great experience, getting to see how the other side of the world lives its daily life,” reflected junior Seth Gagatam. “They may not have the same commodities as we do here, but they are still happy with what they have. It reminds me to be thankful and to keep an open mind to the needs of those around us.”
For many, the highlight of the trip was connecting with children. Zariah Hamilton shared, “It brought me joy to see how excited all the children and adults were to hear about God, especially through our VBS programs.” In total, the group served more than 258 people through VBS and NEWSTART health programs.
Junior Melissa Góngora was deeply moved while distributing clothing. “The local children were so grateful for the simplest things—a shirt, a pair of pants, or a toy. This experience made me realize how often we take our blessings for granted. It reminded me to appreciate what I have and thank those who’ve supported me.”
For several students, this was their first-ever mission trip, an experience they will carry with them for life. Junior Lyla Litchfield reflected, “Whether it was working on projects, spending time with the kids, or just sharing meals with locals, each moment taught me something new.”
The mission trip quickly became a powerful blend of service and spiritual growth. Through clinics, school visits, VBS, and countless moments of connection, the Highland Academy team left a lasting impact on the people of Cebu—and returned home forever changed. As junior Allison Ziegler summed it up, “Going to the Philippines made me realize that God blesses everyone in every way, and that no matter what condition you’re in, you should always have faith in Him.”
Alumni Weekend: A Time to Reminisce, Reconnect, and Renew
Each year, Alumni Weekend draws the Highland family back home— and this year was no exception. From the moment alumni arrived on campus, the air was filled with laughter, warm embraces, and the joy of reconnecting with familiar faces. Classmates reunited after decades apart, friendships were rekindled, and conversations resumed as if no time had passed at all—a beautiful testament to the lifelong community fostered at Highland Academy. We extend our sincere gratitude to the inspiring speakers who enriched the weekend with messages of faith, reflection, and encouragement. Friday evening opened with alumnus Jeremy Stoner ’90, whose thoughtful reflections on faith and friendship set a meaningful tone for the weekend. We were also blessed by messages from Coral Miller ’80, Brandon Robison ’05, and Trina Frist Smith ’85, as well as a special video greeting from Steven Thompson ’65, shared all the way from Australia. In addition, we were honored to welcome former staff member Amy Cirigliano as a guest speaker, whose heartfelt words brought both nostalgia and inspiration to the Highland family. Throughout the weekend, moments of worship, class gatherings, shared meals, music, and leisurely walks across campus created space for reflection, gratitude, and celebration. Everywhere you looked, the spirit of connection and joy was evident, making Alumni Weekend a truly meaningful experience for all who attended.
As we look ahead, plans are already underway for Alumni Weekend on April 24–25, 2026. We are excited to welcome former Highland Academy principal Jim Ingersoll as our weekend speaker and to honor classes ending in 1s and 6s. Looking further ahead to 2027, we are pleased to share that Ritchie Halverson will serve as our Alumni Weekend speaker as we celebrate honor classes ending in 2s and 7s. We hope even more alumni will return to campus in the years ahead to reminisce, reconnect, and create new memories together. Mark your calendars, reach out to your classmates, and plan to join us. Your Highland family looks forward to welcoming you home once again.
Sofia Alves
Ethan Anderson
John Mark Armstrong
Bryson Beckworth
Juanita Cabrales
Victor Castillo
Connor Cheney
Bailey Darrell
Benjamin Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Adriel Garcia
Aurora Gomez
Lily Gustafson
Levi Hallam
Christina Jewell Hewitt
Abigail Hosler
YouJin Kong
Lily Kuntz
Sion Kwon
Isabelle Laneville
Solomon Lewis
Rachel Liu Tanyaradzwa Lunga Khumbula Msibi
Dominic Murrell
Luansil Lopez
Alexandria Reid
Katherine McConnell
Mejia Daniella Rosario
Ethan Roth
Brandon Murrell
Lincoln Shoemaker
Jackson Roddy
Daniel Stringfellow
Jana Shin Callian Southard
GRADUATES OF
Diomedes Suarez
Anthony Verderaime
Suhjin Yoon
Samantha Anderson
Ethan Atlee
Curtis Ballew
Michael Barrera
Aleksandar Bibulovic
Nadia Bibulovic
Goy Both
Timothy Brantley
Shiloh Bushey
Maddox Carlson
Kylie Copley
Otto Del Toro
Casi Demaree
Kyle Dudgeon
Zariah Hamilton
Ally Harrison
Sarang Kim
Jamell Mann
Nalayne Matheson
Sabrina Mann
Isaiah Mckenzie
Fawn Ndanyi
Adriana Ramon
Diego Reynoso
Rhiana Powers Joshua Mazibuko
Yarieliz Rosario Mejia
Martina Ruba
Emma Ruckle
Sara Scott Isaias Serrano
Bertin Shyaka Stephanie Silva Nora Stevens
Preston Rufo Genrikh Semanivskyy
continued story from the last edition
Melissa McCoy Weisner ‘89
Creating a Legacy
The Bibulovics are just one of many families who struggle with making Adventist education a reality. The Bushey family had their own struggles with making Highland Academy a reality. Michael Bushey runs his own construction business making it possible for his wife, Sarah Bushey to homeschool their children. Sarah Bushey said that the Covid lockdowns in 2020 seemed to make their small circle of interactions even smaller, making things difficult especially for their children. The unusual levels of isolation were making life difficult for them. She shared about her daughter, “when Shiloh asked to go to Highland only 2 weeks before school started in 2021, we immediately made it a matter of prayer and action looking into what could be possible.” One of the Busheys’ biggest fears was getting their daughter started at Highland, but having to pull her before graduating because of funding. As a business owner, especially in their line of work, they shared that one never knows when the situation could change financially. Their biggest concern was being able to give their children a solid foundation for a life-long walk with Jesus. After three years of stepping out in faith for their children, Sarah Bushey said, “Shiloh is a 4-year senior this fall, and her brother Michael…is excited to be joining her as a freshman.” If it were not for the Worthy Student Fund and the support of church, friends, and family, this would not have been possible. Bushey said, “We have been so grateful to see how they grow in knowledge and skills, make lasting friendships, and meet their Savior in new ways every day at Highland. It wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community, which no longer feels nearly as small.” With the addition of another child attending Highland Academy at the same time, just like the Bibulovics, the Bushey’s know that money will be tight, but they continue to step out in faith, knowing that the donations to the Worthy Student Fund as well as the additional help from their community will continue to make Adventist education a reality for their family.
The worthy student fund of Highland Academy has a legacy that reaches beyond the current students. Many students for generations have been recipients of financial aid because of the Worthy Student Fund and it’s great to see those students pay it forward, leaving a legacy.
Stephen Rogers, a current teacher at Highland Academy who graduated from Highland and received student aid, is part of the legacy of the Worthy Student Fund. Rogers graduated with the class of 2009 as a two-year senior. He is currently the Gymnix coach, boys dean and work coordinator. Rogers is a fun teacher whose laughter can be heard across campus, and the entire campus can’t help but laugh with him. Rogers is a man who enjoys life and loves God. Anyone who spends any amount of time with him knows this about him beyond the shadow of a doubt. Rogers said, “There’s no question of whether I’d be able to come to Highland without student aid. My experience would not have been possible without the generosity of donors, and so my wife and I make the commitment to pay it forward through our donations to the Worthy Student Fund. The impact of the aid dollars donated years ago still makes a difference.”
Lilly Lopez, a current teacher at Highland Academy but also a graduate of Highland and a recipient of student aid from the worthy student fund, is part of that legacy. Lopez graduated with the class of 2002 as a four-year senior. Lopez teaches Algebra 1, Geometry, Senior Math, and Calculus. Students have shared over the years how not only her teaching but her love for God has made a powerful impact
on their lives. One student shared, “No matter how hateful I got in class or how much I wanted to give up, Mrs. Lopez patiently worked with me. She refused to give up on me. I kind of, sort of understood math by the end of it, but what I understood most was how much God loves me and how patient He is with me because of Mrs. Lopez. She is a true reflection of God’s love, and I am thankful she didn’t give up on me.” Lopez returned to Highland Academy to teach and to pour into students. Because of her experience as a student, she said, “I’d say I wake up every day with the knowledge that I could be living a very different life. First and foremost, I thank God and secondly, I thank the people who donated when He touched their hearts. I always say a changed life is not such a big deal unless it’s your own. I would love to make a large financial contribution to Highland Academy someday, but for now I am investing my life to repay the debt.”
There is one thing about the Worthy Student Fund that separates Highland Academy from so many other schools. It is our Alumni. Donations from family and friends, estates, and philanthropists are always welcomed, but you make the real difference. One parent said that in her search for a place for her children, she qualified for and was offered financial assistance in multiple schools. What impressed her about Highland Academy was how involved the graduates of Highland are in continuing to contribute to its future. You make the difference. Graduates of Highland Academy, you have created a legacy by not only graduating from here, and taking God with you wherever you go, but by making it possible for so many more to follow. We as staff and students thank you, and cannot wait to see more of the difference you make in the lives of students as you continue to contribute to the Worthy Student Fund.
You make the difference. Graduates of Highland Academy, you have created a legacy by not only graduating from here, and taking God with you wherever you go, but by making it possible for so many more to follow. We as staff and students thank you and cannot wait to see more of the difference you make in the lives of students as you continue to contribute to the Worthy Student Fund. These stories and more will continue to be told in the next edition of The Cornerstones.
Jean Hewitt Walker ’60 and her husband Harold live in Richmond, Va and have been married for 51 years. They have 2 children and 1 granddaughter. In Jean’s spare time she enjoys traveling, reading and shopping for antiques.
Karen F Campbell ’64 lives in North Carolina where she occasionally helps with a local potter and does some pet and house sitting. She is loved by her nieces and nephews.
Judy Conner Thurmond ’64 a retired social worker, lives in Chattanooga and loves playing piano, cooking, traveling, reading and composing poetry. She enjoys spending time with her grown children and grandchildren; Lara (Claire) Stephen (Arlie & Quinn), Amber (Saide & Trista), and Jonathan (Parks & Smith).
David Lynn Shafer ’65 has been married to Cristina for 5 years and lives in Butler, Ohio. He works at RiverCity Investment Group and loves riding his motorcycle, traveling to Hawaii and South America. He serves as a volunteer where the Lord needs him. David has 6 children and 10 grandchildren.
Jeannette Lyles Cox ’65 has been married for 8 years to David Carroll. She is enjoying the retirement life in Oliver Springs, TN.
Billie Jo Strong Bledsoe ’82 has been married for 40 years to her husband Michael. They live in Louisville, and she works for the Commonwealth of KY. They have 2 sons Chris and Shawn and 2 grandsons Avery (15) and Lincoln (5). She enjoys watching movies, collecting teacups and attending tea parties. She also enjoys road trips with her sisters.
Kimberly Riggs Ruiz ’95 lives in New Zealand with her husband of 25 years Gabriel. They have two children, Eva (21) working on getting her master’s degree in visual design and Luz (15) who is a Junior in Highschool. Kimberly works
as a dentist and enjoys knitting, crochet, and many other crafts. They have one cat Marco and two chihuahuas Venus and Milo.
Glenn Aguirre ’96 and his wife Celena have been married for 17 years and live in Calhoun, GA with their 4 children. Micaella (14), Jacob (13), Madelyn (9) and Milana (6). Glenn works at the Calhoun SDA church and loves to eat, travel, fish and preach the gospel.
Shana Beery ’96 lives with her son Kingston (13) and is a Paralegal at the Nashville Airport (BNA). She is an avid traveler, loves to hang out with friends drinking coffee and reading a good book. She is a dedicated volunteer and member of the choir at Koinonia Nashville.
Jessica Plyler-Simpson ’04 lives in Badin Lake, North Carolina with her stepson Austin (16). She works at CPI card group inc. When not working or being a mom to a teenage boy, she spends time volunteering as a Guardian Ad Litem in 2 of the counties nearby. As a “GAL” she spends time with children who are in states custody to help make their wishes known to the judge.
Christopher Owen ’04, his wife Bethany and two children Isabelle (5) and Levi (1) live in Stateville, North Carolina. Christopher works for a Software startup named Cribl. After graduation he met his now wife and have been married for 12 years. He likes to tinker with a home lab and is a technologist at heart though he loves to take his Harley Road Glider out when the weather is good and is introducing his children to camping and enjoying the outdoors.
Madeleine Hallam ’17 and Mark Harrison’17 have been married for 4.5 years and currently live in Bishop, California with their little girl Lila Suzanne (1). Madeleine is a school teacher for grades 2-4 and Mark is a pastor.
Basil Cross ’17 is a Police Officer in Monteagle, TN where he lives with his wife of four years, Harley.
Jackson ‘24 and Matt ‘99 Roddy