2026 Graduation Program

The Thirty-Third Commencement Exercises of

The First Academy

Class of 2026

Friday, May 15, 2026

First Orlando Worship Center

The Mission Statement

The First Academy is a Christ-centered, college preparatory school whose mission is to prepare children for life as Christian leaders who choose character before career, wisdom beyond scholarship, service before self, and participation as a way of life.

The Vision Statement

The vision of The First Academy is to be the first choice for families in Orlando who are seeking a Christ-centered, college preparatory education. Specifically, our vision is three-fold:

1. The First Academy will forge an enduring partnership between church, home, and school that will produce powerful and effective student leaders, who will impact their world for Jesus Christ through biblical thought and action, in obedience to the Great Commandment (Mark 12:30-31) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

2. The First Academy will attract and retain faculty and staff members who are dedicated to being the Living Curriculum and understand that rigor, relevance, and relationships in the learning process produce outstanding scholars who will be admitted to the college or university of their choosing based upon a well-rounded record of scholastic accomplishment.

3. The First Academy will aspire for excellence in every area to be a role model for Christian schooling. We will remain a sustainable institution that impacts families for generations to come with respect to money, management, and marketing.

The Bible says, “Where there is no vision the people perish,” (Proverbs 29:18). The First Academy will prayerfully pursue the above vision with a faith that is firm and a hope that endures.

The Senior Class of 2026

Senior Class Verse

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Graduate Statistics

Class of 2026 Graduates: 127

The First Academy Total Number of Graduates since 1994: 2,643

Letter to Senior Parents

Dear Senior Parents,

It has been a privilege to work with you and your graduate at The First Academy over these past years. We have made lasting relationships with your students, and will miss them as they leave our hallways.

Thank you for allowing us to partner with you to educate your student. Whether in classrooms, on athletic fields, during fine arts performances, or simply sitting around lunchroom tables in Gather, we have come to love your children. In a very real sense, they have become our children, too.

We are proud to stand with you now for today’s special celebration. We are eager to send your children into the world not to simply move them on, but with a tangible sense of anticipation about what God is going to do in their lives. The next chapter of their journey begins today.

We hope that you and your students will come and visit from time to time to let us know what is happening in their lives. We pray that the foundation that they have received in your home, at your church, and within the walls of our school will give them strength for the coming days.

May God bless your graduate and your family. It has been a pleasure to serve you.

In His Grace,

The Faculty & Staff of The First Academy

Order of Service

Processional

Welcome…………………….................................................................................................................Mr. Clark Keator School Board Chairman

Invocation……………………....................................................................................................................Dr. David Uth Senior Pastor, First Orlando

Worship……………….........................................................................................................................Mr. Jarian Felton First Orlando Music

Introduction of Speakers……………….....................................................................Miss Marina Schmid Upper School President

Faculty Recognition..........………………....................................................................Mr. Luke Hawkanson Upper School President

Mission Statement………………...................................................................................Miss Lily Bissonnette Upper School Vice President

Scripture Reading……………….......…..............................................................................Miss Lucy Lampkin Upper School Vice President

School Year Theme....................……….............................................................................Miss Emma Holter Upper School Vice President

Order of Service

Daniel & Esther Awards………………..................................................................................Mrs. Joyce Kwak Upper School Principal

Salutatorian……………………………...........................................................................................Miss Amie Newell

Valedictorian…………….................................................................................................................Mr. Eli Harrison

Commissioning & Candlelighting Ceremony.......……….........................Dr. Steve Whitaker Head of School

Senior Tribute Video……………...............................................................................Royals Media Seniors

Presentation of Graduates & Diplomas

Mrs. Robyn Whipple Hybrid Home + School and Distinct Abilities Learning Director

Mrs. Joyce Kwak

Upper School Principal

Conferral of Diplomas…………….......…............................................................................…Mrs. Joyce Kwak Upper School Principal

Recessional

From the Head of School

Dear Graduating Class of 2026,

Graduation day is here. It feels like just yesterday that your parents walked you into school for the first time, their hands holding yours with equal parts excitement and nervousness. Now, as you prepare to walk across the stage, your minds are likely filled with memories of friendships formed, lessons learned, and moments that shaped you into who you are today.

We couldn’t be prouder of the Class of 2026. Throughout your journey, you’ve faced challenges, yet you’ve met each one with grace, resilience, and faith. The years have tested you, but they have also refined you, preparing you for the incredible path ahead. There is also another reason that the Class of 2026 is special, as this is one of the first graduating classes to receive a high school and college diploma simultaneously. Thirteen students will be awarded an Associate’s Degree from Orlando Christian University in addition to their high school diploma.

Today, you will hold your diploma, turn your tassel, and officially step into the next chapter of your life. But graduation is more than a ceremony, it’s a moment of reflection, gratitude, and anticipation. Soon, you’ll be navigating college, stepping into careers, building relationships, and deepening your faith. Each step you take is an opportunity to live out the calling God has placed on your life.

At The First Academy, our vision has always been to equip student leaders who will impact the world through biblical thought and action, fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and the Great Commandment (Mark 12:30-31). Now, more than ever, the world needs leaders like you; compassionate, courageous, and committed to Christ. You have already been His hands and feet, reflecting His love in your words and actions. This is only the beginning.

As you leave these halls and step into the future, my prayer is that you will continue to walk closely with Jesus. May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you, be gracious to you, and fill your life with His perfect peace.

I’m incredibly proud of each of you.

Your friend and brother in Christ,

Steve D. Whitaker, Ph.D. Head of School

From the Upper School Principal

Dear Class of 2026,

You have spent years preparing for this moment, and while today feels like a finish line, it’s actually a beginning of a new chapter in your life. As you step out of our hallways and into the unknown, remember your class verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

The world may try to tell you that your future is defined by your GPA, your college choice, or your career path. But your foundation is deeper than that. The path you are walking has been carefully laid out by a God who loves you. When the road ahead gets foggy or the “plans” don’t look quite like you expected, hold fast to the hope that it is God who has always been, is, and will always guide you through every journey.

No matter where your next chapter takes you—whether it’s right here in Central Florida or across the country—you always have a place at TFA. We’d love to see you back on campus soon! Stop by for a game, a show, or just to say hello when you’re back in town. You’ll always be part of the TFA family.

I will miss seeing your faces in the halls, but I’m even more excited to see how God works through you in the years to come.

With Love,

Mrs. Joyce Kwak Upper School Principal

Senior Leaders

Luke Hawkanson.…………....................................................................................Upper School President

Marina Schmid………….........................................................................................Upper School President

Lily Bissonnette..……….........…...................……….........…........................Upper School Vice President

Emma Holter..........………...................................……….........….............…..Upper School Vice President

Lucy Lampkin.................……….........................……….........…...................Upper School Vice President

Ava Britton..……….………......….....................……….....................................................................Chaplain Leader

Jackson Jones..............……….………......…........................……...................................................Chaplain Leader

Louis Martins.............……….………......…........................……...................................................Chaplain Leader

Eliza Viveros.……….………......….....................……….................................................................Chaplain Leader

Kylie Beavers..…………..……...................….……….........…....................................Dance Marathon Leader

Mackenzie Butcher……………….....….….....………...........................................Dance Marathon Leader

Quinn Duling........…………..……...........….....……….........….................................Dance Marathon Leader

Hannah Giles..…………..……...................………….........…....................................Dance Marathon Leader

Nicolette Grady........…………..…….........………….......…....................................Dance Marathon Leader

Taylor Loveless..…………..……...................………….........…................................Dance Marathon Leader

Haley Pine..........…………..……...................………….........…....................................Dance Marathon Leader

Eli Harrison........................................…………………..…………....………...…...........................…...Fine Arts Leader

Taylor Hayes...............................…………………..…………....……….........…...........................…...Fine Arts Leader

Seth James...................…………………..…………....……….........................................................…..Fine Arts Leader

Laila Schuck...............................…….….…………...….......….........................…...................…....Outreach Leader

Vian Swanepoel...............………….….…………...…..…............................................................Outreach Leader

Ashley Rivel.........................…...…………...........................…............................Royal Ambassador Leader

Addison Simms..................…...…………...........................…...........................Royal Ambassador Leader

Ella Tracey............................…...…………...........................…............................Royal Ambassador Leader

Will Vaughn.................…...…………...….................…........................................Royal Ambassador Leader

Caleb Warner....................…...…………...........................…............................Royal Ambassador Leader

Julia Da Silva.....................................................…..……...........….....................................….............STEM Leader

Anastasia Lozada Da Silva.......................................….....................................….............STEM Leader

Amie Newell........................................................…..……...........….....................................….............STEM Leader

April Folvarcik...........................……………......................................................................Student Life Leader

Ansley Allen Middleton....................….....................................…..........................Student Life Leader

Cameron Watford.....................................….................................................…...........Student Life Leader

Notable Seniors

The awarding of Homecoming and Prom King & Queen are student-selected honors.

Jackson Jones.........……………………..….................................................................................Homecoming King

Eliza Viveros.......…….………………………..........................................................................Homecoming Queen

Eli Harrison............………………..….……….….........…..……….............….....…..………....................................Prom King

Haley Pine...................…..……...……………..….........…..……….............…..………..........…..……….............Prom Queen

The First Academy Senior Class of 2026

From the Senior Class of 2026

Senior year has always been the most highly anticipated part of high school. It’s the exciting culmination of 4 years of hard work and dedication in all areas of our lives, yet many never realize how quickly it flies by. One moment, it’s a normal day of high school, and then suddenly you’re faced with something new. Something completely different from what you’re used to, and yet it is necessary for your growth.

However, our teachers and staff members were forever by our side. We cannot thank them enough for their influence on our lives. They are our cheerleaders, uplifting us when the days feel overwhelming, our confidants, and a source of Christ-centered wisdom. Throughout high school, they molded us with knowledge and perspective. But beyond their dedication to students in the classroom, our teachers have become mentors, coaches, and friends. They pour into the life of every student in so many ways: showing us how to live spiritually by practicing what they preach, facilitating friendships by bringing together different people, or just being people that you can share a conversation with. This relationship between faculty and students is what makes The First Academy a truly special place.

While the faculty is outstanding, the families are the true backbone that makes everything we have possible by sacrificing so much so that we can attend this school. Parents, this year alone, you have spent hours planning each senior lunch and event, as well as attending our countless events that we all had for the very last time. All of your love and support is incredibly appreciated; words alone cannot express our gratitude for you. You were able to take the struggles of this year and teach us how to work through them. Because of you, we had the support that was so vital during this challenging stage of our lives. You were there through all the joys and pains of high school, and we know you will continue to be there for the seasons to come.

We will never forget the relationships, the memories, and the times that we became closer because of this experience we shared. There will never be a class like the class of 2026. This year, we learned, adapted, changed, grew, and relied more on each other; it wasn’t perfect, or anywhere close to easy, but it was ours. Ours to shape into whatever we desire. And because of our time at TFA, we will be better equipped to face the struggles ahead. Every day, we will strive to appreciate what we have and take every opportunity that pushes us toward a brighter future.

Thank you for believing in us, The Senior Class of 2026

Honors

* Cum Laude

** Magna Cum Laude

*** Maxima Cum Laude

**** Summa Cum Laude

Royal Scholar

Chancellor Spellman Barclay*

Nash Riley Barfield*

Brayden William Benson***

Candace Grace Christman*

Isaiah James Comas*

Lily Elizabeth Curley***

Sulexy Beatriz Falcon

Gerard Joseph Gearity III**

Jason Donald Graham, Jr.***

Emerson Leigh Gunkel

Tristan Andrew Hill

Carson Jean Holley****

Devin JaMar Jackson

Emmanuel Morrell Jenkins

Rivere Hudsen Jenkins*

Mingbo Jiang*

Blaze Kingston Jones*

Sean Ronald Kentish**

Cannon Michael Koronka

Houston Xavier Crouch

Austin Dee Kelley

Giovanna Alves*

Hybrid Home + School

Corallys Vionnette Lovera***

Kathleen June Lucas

Cashman Ashton McCoy Jr.**

Demetrice Lamar McCray Jr.

Leah Ebony Sage Merilan****

Mykah Chanel Miller*

Juelz Antonio Nunez

Daniel L. Odem lll

Jacob Richard Seppala

Kingston Reigns Shaw

Joseph Alexander Smit

Alaina Elizabeth Surek***

Luna Maria Taboas*

Trintin Xavier Ny’Quez Thomas*

Cadyn Jeffery Van Der Riet

Musa Welder

Sr’londo Darelle Whiley Jr.

Brian Ethan Williams Jr.

Christian Alexander Willis

Distinct Abilities Learning

Julia Junghee Long*

Upper School

Kayla Chanel McRae*

Cameron Quinn Anderson****§∆

Tyler Ray Arafet**

Aliya Asfour***

Lydia Grace Barrett**

Maxim Joseph Barron

Kylie Michelle Beavers**

Makayla Elizabeth Bird**

Lily Alicia Bissonnette****§∆

Ava Ellis Britton***∆

Mackenzie Leigh Butcher***

Marley Elijah Clayton*

Kennedy Josephine Connell***

Julia Valentina Da Silva****§∆

Arriah Raye Denmark

Enrico Di Benedetto Ferreira****§∆

Albert Duling, V***

Matthew Espada Perez**

Kendall Brooke Fales**

Cristian Osman Faustino

Andrew Michael Flynn

April Lily-Rose Folvarcik*

Joshua Romyll Garcia****§

Hannah Grace Giles****§∆

Samuel Gomez****§

Nicolette Lauren Grady**

Carrington Lenzi Hale**

Torin McLean Hamill***

Eli Zachary Harrison****§∆◊◊

Lucas Robert Hawkanson**

Taylor Alexis Hayes**∆

Dane William Heimer*

Emma Marie Holter****§∆

Jaden Thomas Houle**

Xuanfei Huang****§

Seth Lloyd James**

Jackson Holliday Jones***

Ava Marie Kunkel**

Lucy Grace Lampkin****§∆

Taylor Jade Loveless**

Anastasia Esmeralda Lozada Da Silva**

Louis Edward Martins****§

Abraham Scott Mason*

Niccolas Gregory Merk***

Ansley Allen Middleton****§

Lauren Kelly Mikels*

Amie Tram Newell****§∆◊

Ashtyn Michael Ogeerally

Mateo Patino***

Giulianna Isabella Penagos***§∆

Bryan Sotero Peralta-Martinez****§

Micah Lance Philbin***§∆

Aiden Daniel Phillips***

Haley Marie Pine**

Maria Isabela Curvelo Oliveira Bueno Prado***∆

Matteo Ramirez-Orozco**

Jonah Brian Reeves***§

Tyler Bailey Requejo***

Corbin Josiah Rewis

Ashley Favaro Rivel***§∆

Adarin Marquis Robinson

Lauren Caroline Rose**

Ella Katherine Rumble**

Olivia Valentine Salmon*

Marina Elizabeth Schmid****§∆

Laila Grace Schuck**∆

Brady Paul Sharpe**∆

Andrew Leonidas Silva**

Enzo Kruger Silva*

Maxwell Alton Simmons***

Addison Joy Simms****§∆

Ryon McArthur Elderfield Smith*

Noah Amparo Swaid**∆

Vian Swanepoel****§

Jude Ethan Townsend**

Xavier Luis Tozin*

Ella Kate Tracey****§∆

William Anthony Vaughn III***§

Eliza Valentina Viveros****∆

Hiram Clark Walker**§

Yiting Wang****§

Caleb Ryan Warner****§∆

Cameron Lynn Watford****§

Alexander William Weaver****

Hunter James Whaley

Hybrid Home + School

Memberships:

Chapel Leadership (12)

FCA (12)

Varsity Football (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chancellor Spellman Barclay

The son of Ricardo Barclay & Chris Anne Barclay has attended The First Academy for two years.

All-Orange Observer Football Player of the Year (11)

Football First-Team All District (10-12)

College Plans:

Clemson University

Favorite Bible Verse:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.“ Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Basketball (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Basketball District Champion (12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Nash Riley Barfield

The son of Scott & Raechel Barfield has attended The First Academy for two years.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Leadership Club (11-12)

Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy (11-12)

JV Football (9)

National Honor Society (11-12)

Varsity Football (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (10)

Varsity Wrestling (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chick-Fil-A Student Leadership (11-12)

Hard Hat Award (12)

Homecoming Court (10)

Iron Sharpens Iron Pace Setter Award (10)

National Recognition Award (11)

Student Leader (10-12)

College Plans:

Liberty University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Brayden William Benson

The son of Steven & Andrea Benson has attended The First Academy for three years.

Student Leadership-Discovery Church (10-12)

Vice President (11)

Volunteer-Operation Gratitude-Orlando (10-12)

Weightlifting District Bronze Medal (10)

Weightlifting District Champion (10)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

JV Volleyball (9-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Bible Camp Leader (9)

Miss Orlando (9)

National American Miss (9)

Candace Grace Christman

The daughter of Lisa & Brian Christman has attended The First Academy for six years.

Volunteer-Kids Beating Cancer 10 Year Volunteer (12)

Volunteer-Kids Beating Cancer Formal Ball Fundraiser (9-12)

Volunteer-Kids Beating Cancer Leadership Group (9-12)

Volunteer-Nations Church Kids Ministry (9-12)

Volunteer-Nations Church Side Coordinator (11-12)

Youth Group Leader (9-12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

1 Corinthians 13:4-6, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Baseball (11-12)

Vines & Branches (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Baseball State Champion (11)

Homecoming Court (9,11)

College Plans:

Santa Fe College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Isaiah James Comas

The son of Angel Comas & Stephanie Sykes-Comas has attended The First Academy for eight years.

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Board Game Club (10)

Chick-fil-a Leadership Club (11-12)

Girls Soccer Manager (9)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Honors (9-12)

Math Award (11)

Mission Trip-Dominican Republic (12)

Service Project-Discovery Church Volunteer (11-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lily Elizabeth Curley

The daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Curley has attended The First Academy for three years.

National Honor Society (10-12) Varsity Soccer (10-12)

Spanish Award (10) Volunteer-Kids Camp Prep (11) Volunteer-VBS Planning Committee (11)

You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Psalm 139:5-6, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Lady Duke Travel Softball 18U (9-12)

Varsity Softball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Captain - Dukes 18U (10-12)

Defense Player of the Year (10)

Offensive Player of the Year (11)

College Plans:

Florida International University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Sulexy Beatriz Falcon

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Falcon has attended The First Academy for four years.

“At the right time, I, the LORD, will make it happen.” Isaiah 60:22, NLT

Memberships:

National Honor Society (10-12)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

4H President Officer (6-12)

Football All-Academic Team (11-12)

Football Team Captain (12)

Football Utility Award (11-12)

Four Year Lettermen (9-12)

Golf Tournament (9-11)

Honor Roll (9-12)

College Plans:

Colgate University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Gerard Joseph Gearity III

Magna Cum Laude

The son of Dr. Douglas & Chris Gearity has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Volunteer-Ranch Tours (9-11)

Volunteer-Fundraising for KBC (11-12)

Volunteer-Showed and sold steer at KVLS; over $316,000 raised & donated to Kids Beating Cancer (10-11)

Youth Group (9-12)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33, NIV

Memberships:

Board Games Club (11)

Chick-Fil-A Club (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jason Donald Graham, Jr.

The son of Mr. Jason Graham & Ms. Lindsay Graham has attended The First Academy for eleven years.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

FCA (10-11)

Varsity Softball (7-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Softball State Champion (10)

College Plans:

Bryant University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Emerson Leigh Gunkel

The daughter of Ryan & Roxanne Gunkel has attended The First Academy for one year.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34, NIV

Memberships:

University Academic Cohort Inductee (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Campus Community Engagement Participant (12)

College Plans: Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Tristan Andrew Hill

The son of Ben & Kirsten Hill has attended The First Academy for six years.

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Memberships:

Chapel Club (10-12)

Chick-fil-A Club (10-11)

National Honor Society (10-12)

St. Luke’s Youth Group (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Accelerated High School Track (3 years)

Best Actress OIF Tampa Awards (2023)

Homecoming Court (9)

National Merit Scholarship Qualifier (10-11)

Valencia College President’s List (9-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Carson Jean Holley

The daughter of Russell Holley & Laura Holley has attended The First Academy for four years.

Volunteer-Community Coalition Alliance State Youth Advocate (10-12)

Volunteer-Meridian Behavioral Health Mental Health Advocate (9-10)

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Proverbs 31:8, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

FCA (10-12)

Varsity Football (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Volunteer-Backpack Giveaway (12)

College Plans:

University of Oregon

Favorite Bible Verse:

Devin JaMar Jackson

The son of DeVon & Kemia Jackson has attended The First Academy for three years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

JV Basketball (10)

JV Football (9)

Varsity Football (10-12)

Varsity Track & Field (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

JV Football Championship-Boise ID (9)

Rake Up Boise-Boise ID (9-10)

Volunteer-Agape in Action Food Bank (9-10)

Volunteer-Light Up Orlando Hunger Project (11-12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Emmanuel Morrell Jenkins

The son of Mr. Alex Jenkins & Mr. & Mrs. Soler has attended The First Academy for two years.

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God. Romans 4:20, NIV

Memberships:

Chapel Leadership (10-12)

Cheerleading (11-12)

College Plans:

Florida Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Rivere Hudsen Jenkins

The daughter of John Jenkins & Candice Hyder has attended The First Academy for three years.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Psalm 23:1-3, NKJV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Golf (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Golf Individual State Champion (11)

Golf Team State Runner Up (11)

Golf State Runner Up (10)

College Plans:

University of Virginia

Favorite Bible Verse:

Mingbo Jiang

Cum Laude

The son of Mr. Jiang & Mrs. Hu has attended The First Academy for three years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

JV Basketball (9-10)

JV Football (9)

Varsity Football (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (9-10, 12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Varsity Football Leadership Council (11-12)

Volunteer-TFA Youth Football Camp (11-12)

Blaze Kingston Jones

The son of Shawn & Crystal Jones has attended The First Academy for two years.

Volunteer-Trenchmen Academy Youth Football Camp (11-12)

Volunteer-YMCA (11-12)

Volunteer-Zane Durant Youth Football Camp (11-12)

College Plans:

United States Air Force Academy

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. Luke 23:34, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

AVID (10)

Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy (12)

FCA (11)

National Honor Society (11-12)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Varsity Track and Field (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

2nd Team All District Football (11-12)

College Plans:

Sean Ronald Kentish

Cum Laude

The son of Mr. Kevin Kentish & Ms. Jannine Newell has attended The First Academy for two years.

The University at Albany State University of New York

Favorite Bible Verse:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34, NIV

Magna

Memberships:

Varsity Baseball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Baseball State Champion (11)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Cannon Michael Koronka

The son of John & Ashlee Koronka has attended The First Academy for four years.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26, NIV

Memberships:

Chapel Club (11)

Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy (11)

Church Media (9-12)

Drums (10-12)

JV Tennis (9)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chapel Club Creative Director (11)

Church Media Team Leader (11-12)

Honor Roll (9-12)

Corallys Vionnette Lovera

The daughter of Ariel & Luz Lovera has attended The First Academy for six years.

Morning Announcements Club (10)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Paper Trails Club (12)

Youth Group (9-12)

Volunteer-Chess Camp Assistant Instructor (10)

Volunteer-Church Food Pantry (10-12)

Volunteer-Second Harvest Food Bank (10)

Volunteer-Vacation Bible School (9-11)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (11)

Varsity Competitive Cheer (9-12)

Varsity Sideline Cheer (9-12)

Weightlifting (10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

All American Cheer Award (10)

Competition Cheer Regional Champions (9-10)

Homecoming Court (9)

Mission Trip-Graceville (9)

Varsity Cheer Captain (12)

Volunteer-Serve the City (11)

Volunteer-VBS Leader (9-12)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Kathleen June Lucas

The daughter of Kerry & Cindy Lucas has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. Proverbs 31:25, NLT

Memberships:

FCA (9-12)

Varsity Football (9-12)

College Plans:

Eastern Michigan University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Cashman Ashton McCoy Jr.

Cum Laude

The son of Mr. & Mrs. McCoy has attended The First Academy for two years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Magna

Memberships:

Varsity Basketball (8-11)

Varsity Football (8-12)

Varsity Track & Field (10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Varsity Football Captain (12)

College Plans:

University of Pittsburgh

Favorite Bible Verse:

Demetrice Lamar McCray Jr.

The son of Ms. Jashawn Fluitt has attended The First Academy for two years.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.

James 1:2-4, 19, ESV

Memberships:

9th Grade Girls Bible Study (10)

Beach Club (10)

Camp Roar (10)

Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy (12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-11)

JV Cheer (9)

Lower School Aides Club (11)

National Honor Society (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Cheer Regional Champions (10)

Club Leader Lower School Aid (11)

Coach’s Award (11)

Leah Ebony Sage Merilan

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Chad Merilan has attended The First Academy for five years.

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (9-11)

Student Athletic Leadership Team (12)

Student Life Committee (9-11)

Varsity Cheer (9-12)

Varsity Cheer Captain (12)

College Board National Recognition Award (12)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (12)

Varsity Cheer Captain (12)

Volunteer-Advent Health (11-12)

Volunteer-VBS Navigate (9-12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

I know that everything God does will last forever; there is no adding to it or taking from it. Ecclesiastes 3:24, CSB

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Bible Study Club (9–12)

Camp Leader Rachaad White Foundation Camp (11-12)

Chapel Leadership (10–12)

Chapel Team director (11–12)

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Mission Trip-Italy (11)

Student of the Quarter (9)

Volleyball Captain (11)

Volunteer-Camp Retreats (9–12)

Volunteer-Pep Rally (10)

Mykah Chanel Miller

The daughter of Michael & Chanta Miller has attended The First Academy for five years.

Dance Captain (9–10)

Vacation Bible School Volunteer (9–11)

Varsity Lacrosse (11)

Varsity Weightlifting (10–12)

Youth Group Leadership (10–12)

Volunteer-Roses Giving Back Foundation (9–12)

Weightlifting State Qualifier (11)

College Plans:

Texas Christian University

Favorite Bible Verse:

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Basketball (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Basketball District Champion (10-12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Juelz Antonio Nunez

The son of Mr. Jose Hernandez & Michelle Hernandez has attended The First Academy for one year.

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Matthew 4:1-7, NIV

Memberships:

FCA (11-12)

Varsity Football (11-12)

College Plans:

University of Nebraska

Favorite Bible Verse:

Daniel L. Odem lll

The son of Mr. Daniel Odem Jr & Mrs. Dayondra Campbell has attended The First Academy for two years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

Varsity Football (10-12)

College Plans: Full Sail University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jacob Richard Seppala

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Richard Seppala has attended The First Academy for five years.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6, NKJV

Memberships:

Baseball (9-11)

FCA (9-12)

SGA (10-11)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Academic All-American (9-12)

Ambassador-Sports for the Kids Foundation (12)

Kingston Reigns Shaw

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Shaw has attended The First Academy for one year.

High School Football State Championship Runner Up (11)

Varsity Football Captain (11-12)

Volunteer-Football Golf Tournament (9-11)

Volunteer-Habitat for Humanity (9-11)

Volunteer-Jordan’s Sporting Goods Store (9-12)

Volunteer-Nathaniel’s Hope (9-12)

Volunteer-VBS Leader (9-11)

College Plans:

University of Illinois

Favorite Bible Verse:

By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just. Proverbs 8:15, NIV

Memberships:

JV & Varsity Basketball (9-11)

JV & Varsity Soccer (9-12)

Varsity Football (12)

College Plans:

Oral Roberts University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Joseph Alexander Smit

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Roy Smit has attended The First Academy for one year.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

FCA (11)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Varsity Softball (12)

Vines and Branches (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Homecoming Court (11)

Volunteer-Kids Club Illuminate Church (11-12)

College Plans:

Southeastern University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Alaina Elizabeth Surek

The daughter of Richard & Jill Surek has attended The First Academy for four years.

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

FCA (9-11)

National Honor Society (11)

Varsity Softball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Athlete of the Year Award (10-11)

Athletics and Arts Leadership Committee (11)

Softball Captain (9-12)

Softball State Champion (10)

College Plans:

University of Georgia

Favorite Bible Verse:

Luna Maria Taboas

The daughter of Javier & Natalia Taboas has attended The First Academy for one year.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; don’t rely on your own intelligence. Know him in all your paths, and he will keep your ways straight. Proverbs 3:5-6, CEB

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Pop Warner Coach (9-12) Rec Basketball Coach (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Football Leadership Award (11-12)

Service Project-Backpack Giveaway (12)

Service Project-Community Turkey Drive (12) Volunteer-Backpack Giveaway (12)

College Plans: Lane College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Trintin Xavier Ny’Quez Thomas

The son of Ebony Green & Trini Thomas Jr. has attended The First Academy for three years.

Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” John 13:7, NIV

Cum Laude

Cadyn Jeffery Van Der Riet

The son of Kim & Bryan Van Der Riet has attended The First Academy for five years.

Memberships:

JV Golf (10)

Varsity Soccer (9)

College Plans: Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord. Psalm 31:24, NIV

Memberships:

Varsity Soccer (9-12)

College Plans:

United States Army

Favorite Bible Verse:

Musa Welder

The son of Nick & JoEllen Welder has attended The First Academy for two years.

All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing. Ecclesiastes 1:8, NIV

Memberships:

Basketball (9)

Pop Warner Football Coach (12)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Football 1st Team All-District (11)

Student of the Quarter (12)

College Plans:

The University of West Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Sr’londo Darelle Whiley

Jr.

The son of Sr’londo Whiley & Latoya Allen has attended The First Academy for three years.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13, NKJV

Memberships:

Freshman Basketball (9)

Track & Field (10-11)

Varsity Basketball (10)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Brian Ethan Williams

The son of Carmen Garcia & Brian Williams has attended The First Academy for one year.

Track & Field Districts - 1st Place, High Jump (11)

College Plans:

Auburn University

Favorite Bible Verse:

And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12, NIV

Memberships:

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Football 3 Star (12)

College Plans:

Georgia Institute of Technology (Main Campus)

Favorite Bible Verse:

Christian Alexander Willis

The son of Mr. DeAndre Willis & Mrs. Danielle Arbelaez-Willis has attended The First Academy for three years.

“Do not remember the past events; pay no attention to things of old. Look, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert. Wild animals - jackals and ostriches - will honor me, because I provide water in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”

Isaiah 43:18-20 NIV

Distinct Abilities Learning

Memberships:

AAU Power House Track (9-10)

SOFL Flag Football (12)

SOFL Track & Field (11-12)

Varsity Track (10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

SOFL Flag Football Captain (12)

Houston Xavier Crouch

The son of Mr. Lamarr & Mrs. Ahleshia Crouch has attended The First Academy for three years.

Florida Regional Championships Track-100M Gold (12)

Florida Regional Championships Track-100M Relay Gold (12)

Florida Regional Championships Track-200M Gold (12)

SOFL Track & Field Regional Championships-200M Gold (11)

SOFL Track & Field Regional Championships-400M Gold (11)

SOFL Track & Field Regional Championships-4X100M Relay Gold (11)

SOFL Track & Field State Games-100M Relay Gold (11)

SOFL Track & Field State Games-200M Gold (11)

SOFL Track & Field State Games-400M Gold (11)

Varsity Track Coach’s Hustle Award (10)

College Plans:

Orange Technical College

Favorite Bible Verse:

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Psalm 32:8, NIV

Memberships:

YoungLife

College Plans:

Austin Dee Kelley

The son of Ryan & Katherine Kelley has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Vocational Internship followed by University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

Art Studios/Mentorships (9-12) Trendsetters (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Julia Junghee Long

The daughter of David & Myrna Long has attended The First Academy for two years.

Equine Angels Foundation- Artwork Sold at Fundraising Auction, Horses & Hope (11)

Teacher’s Art Assistant (12)

Volunteer-Second Harvest Food Bank (11)

Volunteer-Southern Home Bakery (11)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Cum Laude

Upper School

Memberships:

Chaplain Committee (10-11)

Comfort Club (10-11)

Dance Marathon Committee (10-11)

National History Scholars Society (11-12)

Outreach Committee (10-12)

Pickleball Club Leader (11)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11-12)

Quiz Bowl Club (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Rolling Royals Champion (12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica Leader (12)

Student of the Quarter (12)

Wounded Warrior Club Leader (11)

Wyld Life Leader (11-12)

College Plans:

Auburn University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Giovanna Alves

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Flavio Alves has attended The First Academy for five years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership (9-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Student Life Committee (10-12)

Varsity Soccer (11-12)

Varsity Tennis (9-11)

Wounded Warrior Club (11-12)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Best Buddies (9-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

Fellowship Of Christian Athletes (9,12)

Fine Arts (10-12)

Freshman Volleyball (9)

History Club (12)

JV Volleyball (10)

National Art Honor Society (12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Prom Committee (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Best Buddies Co-President (12)

Bible Study Leader (11)

Freshman Volleyball Team Captain (9)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Vice President of the Freshmen Class (9)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Cameron Quinn Anderson

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Bret Anderson has attended The First Academy for three years.

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Student Government (9)

Student Life Committee (11)

Varsity Beach Volleyball (12)

Varsity Volleyball (11-12)

Winter Park Volleyball Club (9-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (12)

Volunteer-Blankner School (9)

Volunteer-Great Books Summer Program (11-12)

Volunteer-Volleyball Camp For Lower School (11-12)

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

12th Man (11-12)

Quiz Bowl (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Baseball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

12th Man Secretary (12)

Baseball District Champions (9-12)

Baseball Regional Champions (10-11)

Baseball State Champions (11)

Baseball State Final Four (10)

Quiz Bowl Vice President (12)

Varsity Baseball Team Captain (12)

Volunteer-Miracle League Baseball (9-10)

Volunteer-Windermere Parks and Recreation (9-12)

College Plans:

University of Oregon

Favorite Bible Verse:

Tyler Ray Arafet

The son of Freddy & Jayme Arafet has attended The First Academy for five years.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Philippians 2:3, CSB

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (12)

Masterworks (9-12)

Model UN (9-12)

National Art Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chapel Band Social Media Manager (12)

Designer of the Year (11)

Emerging Artist Award (10)

Heart of the Creator Award (11)

Homecoming Court (11)

Model UN Historian / Social Media Manager (12)

National Art Honor Society Vice President (12)

College Plans:

Savannah College of Art and Design

Favorite Bible Verse:

Aliya Asfour

The daughter of Michael & Cindy Asfour has attended The First Academy for four years.

Royal Outreach Award (10)

Theatre Scholar of the Year (9)

Troupe Historian / Social Media Manager (11-12)

Windermere Art Show-1st Place (10)

Winter Park Art Festival-Award of Merritt (11)

Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Corinthians 16:14, ESV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (11-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

Micah 6:8 (12)

National Art Honor Society (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-4th Place Presentation (12)

Freshman Girls Bible Study Leader (12)

Homecoming Court (12)

Micah 6:8 Historian (12)

Mission Trip-Amazon (12)

Mission Trip-Rio De Janeiro (9-11)

National Art Honor Society Chaplain (12)

One Nights Student Leader Lounge Team Member (11-12)

College Plans:

Florida Gulf Coast University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lydia Grace Barrett

Magna Cum Laude

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Barrett has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Royal Ambassador (12)

Varsity Softball (9-10)

Varsity Weightlifting (9-12)

One Nights Student Leadership (11)

Service Project-Live It Out VBS (11)

Service Project-Meals On Wheels (9)

Service Project-Serve The City (10)

Service Project-Snowball Express (10,12)

Service Project-The Good Friday Project (10-11)

Weightlifting District Qualifier (9-12)

Weightlifting Regional Qualifier (10-12)

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalm 23:1-3, ESV

College Plans:

The University of Alabama

Maxim Joseph Barron

The son of Joseph & Olga Barron has attended The First Academy for five years.

Favorite Bible Verse: Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. Proverbs 10:4, NIV

Memberships:

Care and Prevention (9-10)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

JV Volleyball (8-10)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

National Society of High School Scholars (11-12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Beach Volleyball District Champions (10)

Dance Marathon Leader (11-12)

Government Club President (11-12)

Most Improved Player Beach Volleyball (9)

Raw Footage Producer (11)

Sunday School Teacher (10-11)

Wyldlife Leader (10-12)

College Plans:

The University of Alabama

Favorite Bible Verse:

Kylie Michelle Beavers

The daughter of John & Natalie Beavers has attended The First Academy for eleven years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Student Life Committee (10-12)

Varsity Beach Volleyball (9-12)

Varsity Volleyball (11-12)

In peace I will lie down and sleep for you alone Lord make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

FCA (11)

Micah 6:8 Club (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Varsity Cross Country (11-12)

Varsity Soccer (9-12)

Varsity Track & Field (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Micah 6:8 Vice President (12)

College Plans:

Florida Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Makayla Elizabeth Bird

The daughter of Rufo & Raquel Bird has attended The First Academy for three years.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Camp Orlando at Southeastern University (6-11)

Chess Club (10)

Football Drone Captain (11-12)

Media (9-12)

MVMT Youth Group (9-12)

National Honor Society (9-12)

National Society Of High School Scholars (10-12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Dartmouth College Junior Book Award (11)

Distinguished Christian High Student Award (10)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-5th Place Presentation (12)

FHSAA Class 2A Softball State Champion (8)

GEMS (Girls Empowered by Math & Science) TFA Founder & President (11-12)

Head of School’s List Honor Roll (10)

Homecoming Court (11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lily Alicia Bissonnette

The daughter of Mark & Ginny Bissonnette has attended The First Academy for ten years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Science National Honor Society (10-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Sports Medicine (10)

Varsity Soccer (11-12)

Varsity Softball (8-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (10)

Wounded Warrior Club (10-12)

YMCA Fit Club (6-12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Mission Trip-Guatemala (10)

Mission Trip-Jamaica (11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Science National Honor Society Lower School Liaison (11-12)

Senior Sports Producer (12)

Service Project-Wounded Warrior Club (10-11)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (12)

Student Life Committee Junior Leader (11)

Upper School Vice President (12)

Volunteer-Softball Camp (7-10)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (8-12)

Chaplain (9-12)

Contemporary Band (11)

Heart of David (9-10)

Marching Band (8-10)

Masterworks (10-12)

Micah 6:8 (9-10)

Model UN (10-12)

MVMT Students Worship Band (8-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Applause Award Nomination: Outstanding Orchestra (11)

Band Social Media Manager (10-11)

Bible Study Leader (9-11)

Chapel Band Leader (12)

Chaplain Leader (12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis

Competition-3rd Place Presentation (12)

Drumline Captain (10-11)

Florida Sonata and Sonatina State

Competitor: Superior (9-10)

Heart of David Leader (9-10)

Homecoming Court (12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ava Ellis Britton

The daughter of Mr. Stephen Britton & Dr. Edith Britton has attended The First Academy for five years.

Orchestra Pit Musician: Little Women (11)

Pep Band (11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (11-12)

Veterans Day Service Drumline (10-12)

Wind Ensemble (8-10)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Micah 6:8 Secretary (9-10)

Mission Trip-Puerto Rico (12)

Model UN Under Secretary General of Spiritual Formations (11-12)

Percussion Section Leader (10)

Royal Reach Award (11)

University of Central Florida Federation

Competitor: Superior (9-10)

Volunteer-First Orlando VBS (9-12)

Volunteer-Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break! (9-10)

Volunteer-Serve the City (10-11)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10-12)

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. Proverbs 31:25, NLT

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chaplain Committee (11-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

FKK ECNL (9-12)

GEMS Club (11-12)

National Honor Society (9-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11/12th Grade Girls Bible Study Leader (12)

7th Grade Girls Bible Study Leader (11)

Boys Varsity Soccer Manager (10-12)

Dance Marathon Leadership (11-12)

GEMs Vice President (12)

National Honor Society Treasurer (12)

Principal’s Award (9)

Principal’s Honor Roll (9-12)

College Plans:

Baldwin Wallace University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Mackenzie Leigh Butcher

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jeremy Butcher has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Sports Medicine (10-12)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (11)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Girls Soccer (6-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (10-12)

Sports Medicine Director of Operations (12)

TOPS (10-12)

Varsity Girls Soccer Captain (11-12)

Varsity Girls Soccer MVP (7,10-11)

Volunteer-LS Soccer (9-12)

Volunteer-Senior Retreat Work Crew (11)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

Isaiah 26:4, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (12)

Real Life Christian Church Cafe Associate (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Wrestling (9-11)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Honor Roll (9-12)

Raw Footage Editor (12)

Varsity Wrestling Regional Qualifier (9-10)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

Yearbook Editor (11)

College Plans:

Florida International University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Marley Elijah Clayton

The son of Greg & Keeya Clayton has attended The First Academy for five years.

Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.”

Job 1:8, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Baking Club (12)

Beach Club (9)

Best Buddies (9-10)

Club Volleyball (9-12)

Comfort Club (10)

Dance Marathon (11-12)

G.E.M.S. (11-12)

JV Volleyball (9)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AAU National Champion (10)

Baking Club Media Coordinator (12)

Homecoming Court (11)

Most Improved Beach Volleyball (11)

Principal’s Honor Roll (9-12)

Varsity Beach Volleyball Captain (12)

Varsity Beach Volleyball Hustle Award (9)

College Plans:

Gulf Coast State College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Kennedy Josephine Connell

The daughter of Todd & Jennifer Connell has attended The First Academy for four years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sports Medicine (9-11)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (12)

Varsity Beach Volleyball (9-12)

Varsity Volleyball (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (9)

Wounded Warrior Club (12)

Varsity Volleyball Captain (12)

Varsity Volleyball Hustle Award (11)

Volleyball All-American (10-11)

Volunteer-Give Kids the World (9-11)

Volunteer-Lower and Middle School Volleyball Camp (9-12)

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:9, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon (9-12)

International Thespian Honor Society (11-12)

Model UN (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Outreach Committee (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Dance Marathon Captain (11)

Generations United Club Leader (12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica Vice President (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Julia Valentina Da Silva

The daughter of Jose Julio Da Silva & Cecilia Gonzalez has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

STEM Committee (12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

The First Academy Theater Technician (10-12)

Varsity Track & Field (9-12)

Science National Honor Society Lower School Liaison (12)

STEM Committee Leader (12)

Volunteer-Dr. Phillips Hospital (11-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (11-12)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Basketball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Basketball District 1st Team (11-12)

Basketball District Champions (9-12)

Basketball Regional MVP (11)

Varsity Basketball Captain (11-12)

College Plans:

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Favorite Bible Verse:

Arriah Raye

Denmark

The daughter of Mr. Samuel Denmark II & Mrs. Jaquay King-Denmark has attended The First Academy for one year.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Memberships:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu + Muay Thai (9-11) Legendarios Church (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11) Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service: Humanities Scholar (12)

NSLC Law Camp Top Attorney (11) Royal Scholar (12) Volunteer-Legendarios (10-12)

College Plans: University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Enrico Di Benedetto Ferreira

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1, ESC Summa Cum Laude

The son of Mr. Paulo Ferreira & Ms. Daniella Di Benedetto has attended The First Academy for six years.

Memberships:

Comfort Club (12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

JV Football (8-9)

Quiz Bowl Club (11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Honor (11)

Apex First Look Lacrosse All Star (10)

Coach’s Award Lacrosse (11)

Dance Marathon Leader (12)

DII Showcase Lacrosse All Star (12)

Most Improved Lacrosse (9)

UNC Team Showcase All Star (12)

College Plans:

Auburn University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Albert Duling, V

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Albert Duling, IV has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Golf (12)

Varsity Lacrosse (8-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (9,12)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-10)

Varsity Golf Captain (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Captain (10-12

Weightlifting District Champion (9)

Weightlifting Regional Qualifier (12)

Weightlifting Regional Runner-Up (9)

Weightlifting State Qualifier (9)

Young Men’s Service League (9-12)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Government Club (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Volunteer-Snowball Express (11-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Matthew Espada Perez

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Espada has attended The First Academy for three years.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon (9-12)

FCA (12)

JV Volleyball (9-10)

Micah 6:8 (12)

National Art Honor Society (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Micah 6:8 Vice President (12)

Volunteer-Boys and Girls Club (10)

Volunteer-Matthew’s Hope (11)

Volunteer-Second Harvest Food Bank (9-10)

College Plans:

University of South Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Kendall Brooke Fales

The daughter of Mr. Jody & Ms. Kim Fales has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

Outreach Club (11)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Varsity Girls Weightlifting (10-12)

Varsity Volleyball (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (12)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

National Art Honor Society (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (12)

Varsity Cross Country (9-12)

Varsity Track & Field (9-11)

Varsity Wrestling (9-10)

College Plans:

Florida International University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Cristian Osman Faustino

The son of Richard & Erika Faustino has attended The First Academy for seven years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

Chapel Band (12)

Guitar (11)

JV Golf (9-10)

Micah 6:8 Club (9)

Rolling Royals (12)

Varsity Marching Band (8)

Varsity Weightlifting (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Micah 6:8 Treasurer (9)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Andrew Michael Flynn

The son of John & LeAnn Flynn has attended The First Academy for five years.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV

Memberships:

Best Buddies Club (10)

Comfort Club (12)

Dance Marathon Committee (11-12)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (11)

Micah 6:8 club (9)

Outreach Committee (11-12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

All-American Cheerleader (11)

AP Scholar with Honor (12)

Cheerleading Regional Champion (9-10)

Cheerleading State Runner-Up (10)

Raw Footage Director (12)

Student Life Committee Leader (12)

Varsity Cheer Captain (12)

Varsity Cheer Hustle Award (10)

College Plans:

Florida Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

April Lily-Rose Folvarcik

The daughter of John & Kerry Folvarcik has attended The First Academy for four years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Student Life Committee (11-12)

Varsity Cheerleading (9-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (10-12)

Volunteer-Beactive Summer Camp Counselor (10-12)

Volunteer-Cheer Coach (8-12)

Volunteer-Embrace Of Celebration (7-10)

Volunteer-Gary Sinise Snowball Express (9-12)

Volunteer-Honor Flight (9-12)

Volunteers For Veterans Initiative (7-12)

“For with God nothing will be impossible.” Luke 1:37, NKJV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Varsity Baseball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Baseball District Champions (9-11)

Baseball Regional Champions (10-11)

Baseball State Champions (11)

Joshua Romyll Garcia

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Romyll Garcia has attended The First Academy for seven years.

College Board National Hispanic Recognition Program (11)

Royal Scholar (12)

College Plans:

University of Miami

Favorite Bible Verse:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

National Art Honor Society (11-12)

National Honor Society (9-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Honor (11)

Dance Marathon Senior Leader (12)

Homecoming Court (9)

Humanities Scholar (12)

National Federation of Music Clubs (11)

Royal Scholar (12)

College Plans:

The University of Tampa

Favorite Bible Verse:

Hannah Grace Giles

The daughter of Paul & Sheryll Giles has attended The First Academy for eleven years.

SALT (12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Beach Volleyball (10-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (11-12)

Varsity Soccer (11-12)

Varsity Volleyball (9)

Top 10% Junior (11)

Top 5 GPA (9-10)

Volleyball Summer Camp Coach (9-10)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10)

Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival (11)

Yale University Book Award (11)

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

1 Corinthians 13:4-6, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Competitive Programming Team (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11th Grade Science Award (11)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-4th Place Written Paper (12)

FIU HSPC 2026-1st Place (12)

Lockheed Martin Code Quest 2025

Orlando-1st Place (11)

Lockheed Martin Code Quest 2026

Orlando-1st Place (12)

College Plans:

University of Maryland

Favorite Bible Verse:

Samuel Gomez

The son of Mr. Oscar Gomez & Dr. Margarita Rivera has attended The First Academy for four years.

Principal’s Award (9)

Royal Scholar (12)

Top 5 PSAT Score (11)

UCF HSPT 2025-1st Place (11)

UF HSPC 2024-1st Place (10)

UF HSPC 2025-2nd Place (11)

UF HSPC 2026-1st Place (12)

Volunteer-Clean The World (9-12)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chaplain (9-12)

Comfort Club (9-10)

Dance Marathon (9-12)

Environmental Committee (9-10)

Gov Club President (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Outreach Committee (9-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

College Board School Recognition Award (11)

Dance Marathon Leader (11-12)

Nicolette Lauren Grady

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jim Grady has attended The First Academy for eleven years.

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (12)

Varsity Tennis (8-12)

Wyldlife Leader (10-12)

Younglife (11-12)

National History Scholars Society Vice President (12)

Rolling Royals Champion (12)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (11-12)

Varsity Tennis Co-Captain (11-12)

Wyldlife Camp Counselor (10-12)

College Plans:

University of Miami

Favorite Bible Verse:

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Romans 8:31, ESV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Baking Club (12)

Basketball Manager (11-12)

Beach Club (9-10)

Club Volleyball (9-11)

Comfort Club (9-10)

Dance Marathon (11-12)

FCA (9-12)

G.E.M.S. (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

FCA Captain (11-12)

Principal’s Honor Roll (9)

Sports Medicine Director of Programs (12)

College Plans:

University of Mississippi

Favorite Bible Verse:

Carrington Lenzi Hale

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Richard Hale IV has attended The First Academy for four years.

JV Volleyball (9-10)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Spanish Club (11)

Sports Medicine (9-12)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

JV Football (9)

JV Lacrosse (9)

JV Soccer (9)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

National Merit Commended (11)

Top 5 PSAT Score (10-11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Torin McLean Hamill

The son of Chris & Erin Hamill has attended The First Academy for seven years.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives. Proverbs 11:30, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Bromans Bible Study (9-12)

Chapel Band (9-12)

Chinese Culture Program (10-12)

Coding Team (9-12)

Fine Arts Committee (12)

Grade Level Bible Study (7-12)

Jazz Band (9-12)

Marching Band (7-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11th Grade Bible Study Co-Leader (12)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

AP Scholar with Honor (10)

Band President (12)

Band Tempo Award (10)

Band Vice President (11)

Brass Captain (11-12)

CodeQuest Advanced Division-1st Place (11-12)

CodeQuest Advanced Division-2nd Place (9)

Coding Team Captain (10-12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-1st Place Written Paper (12)

Fine Arts Committee Leader (12)

FIU HSPC Advanced Division-1st Place (12)

GatorMUN Verbal Commendation (12)

Grade Level Math Award (9-10)

Homecoming Court (10)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Lockheed Martin Innovation Award (12)

Model UN Vice President (12)

National Merit Commended (11)

College Plans:

University of Washington (Seattle Campus)

Favorite Bible Verse:

Eli Zachary Harrison

The son of Neil & Michelle Harrison has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

Model UN (9-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

Orlando Grace Church Worship Band (11-12)

Parade Band (11-12),

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

STEM Committee (12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (9-12)

Overall Band “John Philip Sousa” Award (11)

Overall HS “Pascal” Math Award (11)

Prom King (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

SNHS High School Liaison (11)

Thespian Districts-All-Star Tech (10)

Thespian States-Excellent (12)

Top 5 PSAT (6-11)

Top GPA (6-11)

UCF CP Camp Best Upsolver Award (9)

UCF CP Camp Overall 3rd Place (9)

UCF HSPT Individual Division I-2nd Place (11)

UCF HSPT Individual Division I-3rd Place (10,12)

UCF HSPT Individual Division II-1st Place (9)

UCF HSPT-1st Place (11-12)

UCF HSPT-2nd Place (10)

UF HSPC-1st Place (10,12)

UF HSPC-2nd Place (11)

US Presidential Scholar Candidate (12)

Valedictorian (12)

“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Matthew 6:26, ESV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Blue Crew (12)

Dance Marathon (9-12)

History Club (11,12)

JV Lacrosse (10)

Model UN (9-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Orlando Health Healthcare Pathway Summer Program (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10,11)

College Board National Recognition Award (12)

Homecoming Court (10,12)

Liberty University Book Award (11)

Model UN Under-Secretary General Of Finance (12)

Model UN Under-Secretary General Of Training (11)

Royal Ambassador Junior Leader (11)

Sports Medicine Director of Recruitment (12)

Sports Medicine Varsity Lacrosse Lead Student Trainer (11,12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lucas Robert Hawkanson

The son of Bob & Katie Hawkanson has attended The First Academy for nine years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassadors (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sports Medicine Varsity Team (10-12)

St Luke’s United Methodist Church Youth Group (9-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (11-12)

Sports Medicine Varsity Soccer Lead Student Trainer (11,12)

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church Youth Connect Team Captain (11,12)

Upper School President (12)

VBS Crew Leader (9-12)

Volunteer-Orlando Health Teen (12)

Volunteer-St. Luke’s United Methodist Church Vbs (9-12)

Volunteer-Town Of Windermere Events (9-12)

The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. Nahum 1:7, ESV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Camp Roar Leader (10)

Chapel Band (9-12)

Chaplin Committee (9-12)

Chorus (6-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (11)

Faithful Flowers (12)

Fine Arts Committee (9-12)

First Orlando MVMT Band (9-12)

International Thespian Society (6-12)

JV Sideline Cheer (9)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

All-State Chorus (7)

Chorus President and Social Media Manager (12)

District Thespy Duet Musical-Excellent (10,12)

District Thespy Solo Musical-Excellent (9,11)

District Thespy Solo Musical-Superior (12)

District Thespy Group Acting SceneExcellent (11)

Faithful Flowers Founder (12)

Fine Arts Committee Leader (11-12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

International Thespian Society Secretary (12)

International Thespy Short Film-Excellent (11)

College Plans:

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Favorite Bible Verse:

Taylor Alexis Hayes

The daughter of Dr. Mark & Jodi Hayes has attended The First Academy for ten years.

Model United Nations (9-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (12)

Stockworth Studios Intern/Actor (11-12)

Varsity Sideline/Competitive Cheer (9-10)

Varsity Weightlifting (10-11)

YoungStar Musical Theater (11-12)

International Thespy Short Film (12)

Mission Trip-Restore Brazil (9-11)

Model United Nations Under-Secretary General of Training (12)

One Nights Student Leader (11)

Science National Honor Society Middle School Liaison (12)

Technical Director-Senior Directed Play (12)

Volunteer-Cornerstone Hospice House (12)

Volunteer-Serve the City (10)

Volunteer-Special Needs Sunday School Teacher (8-12)

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. Psalm 19:1-2, NLT

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Basketball Club (11)

Bromans Bible Study (12)

Comfort Club (12)

JV Basketball (9)

Masterworks (11-12)

Model UN (11-12)

Music Production Club (10)

National Junior Honor Society (9)

Publix Employee (10-12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Dance Marathon Business Manager (11)

Football Game Cameraman (12)

Notre Dame Summer Scholars (11)

Raw Footage Editor (9-12)

Thespian Districts (11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Dane William Heimer

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Justin Heimer has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Student Life Committees (11-12)

TFA Theatre: Little Women (11)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (10-12)

Varsity Athletics (10)

Winter Park Theatre (10)

YoungLife SW Orlando (9-12)

Volleyball Analyst (12)

Volunteer-Editor/Cameraman/ Commentator for TFA Media (12)

Volunteer-Young Life Summer Camp (12)

Volunteer-YoungLife Ambassador (9-12)

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band Technician (11-12)

Coloring Club (9)

Gift of the Magi Prop Master (10)

Godspell Assistant Stage Manager (10)

Latin Honor Society (10-12)

Model UN (10-12)

National Art Honor Society (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Not a Clue Stage Manager (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chapel Band Technical Leader (12)

Distinguished Christian High School Student Award (11)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-5th Place Written Paper (12)

English Award (10)

Fine Arts Committee Leader (11)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Masterworks President (9-12)

National Art Honor Society Secretary (12)

National Merit Commended (12)

Outstanding Student Award (11)

Royal Scholar (12)

Science National Honor Society Secretary (11)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Emma Marie Holter

The daughter of Dr. Natalie Holter & Mr. Timothy Holter & Mrs. Theresa Rogers has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Nox Artium Assistant Stage Manager (10)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Shrek Prop Builder (9)

The Vagabond and the Viscount Assistant Stage Manager (10)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (9-12)

Wizard of Oz Stage Manager (12)

Young Star Musical Theater Stage Manager (12)

Student Life Committee Leader (11)

Thespian Districts-Superior, Student Directed Scene & Stage Management (11)

Top 10% Junior (11)

Top 5 GPA (9)

Top 5 PSAT (9)

Troupe 5165 President (12)

Troupe 5165 Secretary (11)

Upper School Vice President (12)

Volunteer-Orlando Family Stage (11)

Windermere Art Festival-Featured Art (9-12)

Winter Park Art Festival-Featured Art (9-12)

I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:4-5, 8, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chinese Culture Club (9-12)

Homecoming Planning Committee (9-11)

Model UN (11-12)

National Art Honor Society (10-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Society of High School Scholars (12)

Newspaper Club (10)

Prom Planning Committee (11)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Theatre Tech (10,12)

Windermere Fine Arts Festival (11-12)

Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Micah 6:8 Club Creative Director (12)

National Art Honor Society Mural Project (11-12)

Newspaper Club Founder (10)

Snowball Express Volunteer (9-12)

Student of the Quarter (9)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jaden Thomas Houle

The son of Michael & Jennifer Houle has attended The First Academy for five years.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Romans 12:18, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Animal Club (9)

Chinese Culture Program (9-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Chinese Culture Program Co-Leader (12)

Mathematics Award (11)

Xuanfei Huang

The daughter of Mr. Ray Huang & Mrs. Demi Zeng has attended The First Academy for four years.

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Varsity Golf (9,11)

National Chinese Honor Society President (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Science Award (9)

Student of the Quarter (9)

Top 10 PSAT (10)

Volunteer-Sharing Center for Orlando Chinese Evangelical Christian Church (9-11)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13, ESV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (12)

Model United Nations (9-12)

National Art Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (12)

National Art Honor Society President (12)

Yearbook Photography Editor (12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Seth Lloyd James

The son of Dr. Dianna James & the late Mr. Lloyd James Jr. has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (11-12)

Yearbook Staff (12)

This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.” Isaiah 30:15, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chaplain (11-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

JV Basketball (9-10)

JV Football (9)

National Honor Society (9-12)

Outdoor Club (9)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Bible Study Leader (11-12), Brotherhood Football Award (10)

Chaplain Leader (12)

Coaches Award Weightlifting (11)

Homecoming Court (12)

Homecoming King (12)

Most Improved Player Lacrosse (11)

Positive Spirit Award Golf (11)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jackson Holliday Jones

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Minor Jones has attended The First Academy for twelve years.

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Football (9-10)

Varsity Golf (11-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (11-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (9-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-12)

Service Project-Wounded Warrior Thanksgiving Food Drive (10-12)

Varsity Golf Captain (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Captain (12)

Varsity Scholar Award (10)

Weightlifting District Champion (10-12)

Weightlifting State Qualifier (11)

Wounded Warrior Club Officer (11-12)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Varsity Weightlifting (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Baking Club Secretary (12)

Baseball Manager (12)

Football Manager (12)

Spanish Club Vice President (11)

Volunteer-VBS (10-12)

Worship Team (9-12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ava Marie Kunkel

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Alan Kunkel has attended The First Academy for two years.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” John 13:7, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

9th Grade Girls Bible Study (12)

BMW News (9-10)

Chaplain (9-12)

International Thespian Society (11-12)

JV Volleyball (9)

Latin Honor Society (10-12)

Masterworks (9-12)

Model UN (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Brown University Book Award (11)

Chaplain Leader (11-12)

Congressional Award Gold Medal (11)

English Award (9)

Gator MUN Verbal Commendation (11)

Homecoming Court (10)

Homecoming Court Nominee (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Kanakuk Honor Camper (Lifetime)

Midweek Leadership at Discovery Church (10-12)

National Honor Society President (12)

National Honor Society Vice President (11)

Poetry Out Loud Finalist (9-12)

Raw Footage Executive Producer (12)

Royal Ambassador Leader (11-12)

Royal Scholar (12)

College Plans:

Liberty University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lucy Grace Lampkin

The daughter of Dan & Lisa Lampkin has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Outreach Committee (9-12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (10-12)

Raw Footage (9-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (12)

Varsity XC (10-12)

Service Project-Operation Gratitude 2000+ paracord lanyards (9-12)

Student Life Leader (11-12)

Thespian Districts-Excellent, Monologue (12)

Thespian Districts-Excellent, Small Group

Acting (11)

Thespian Districts-Excellent, Student Directed Scene (11)

Thespian State-Excellent, Small Group Acting (11)

Thespian State-Excellent, Student Directed Scene (11)

Top 5 GPA (9-11)

Upper School Vice President (12)

Varsity Cross Country Captain (12)

Varsity Cross Country Most Improved (10-11)

Volunteer-FCS Summer Camp (9-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9-12)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Matthew 22:37-40, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Baking Club (12)

Beach Volleyball (9-12)

Best Buddies (10-12)

Chaplain (12)

Club Beach Volleyball (11-12)

Club Volleyball (11-12)

Dance Marathon (10-12)

FCA (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Basketball Manager (11-12)

Beach Volleyball Captain (11-12)

Beach Volleyball Coach’s Award (11)

Beach Volleyball MVP (9)

Beach Volleyball Positivity Award (10)

Dance Marathon Leader (11-12)

Indoor Volleyball Spiritual Leader (12)

L.I.O.N Award (9)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Taylor Jade Loveless

The daughter of Jon & Lauren Loveless has attended The First Academy for three years.

G.E.M.S (11-12)

JV Volleyball (10)

National Honor Society (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sports Medicine (10-12)

Student Government (9)

Varsity Volleyball (9,11,12)

Weightlifting (9-12)

Lamp of Learning for Science (9)

S.A.L.T (12)

Servants Heart Award (9)

Sports Medicine Captain (12)

Sports Medicine Co Captain (11)

TFA Outstanding Student Award (10)

Volunteer-VBS (9-12)

Volunteer-Volleyball Coach (9-12)

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Beach Volleyball (12)

Dance Marathon Committee (10-12)

GEMS Club (11-12)

JV Volleyball (9)

Micah 6:8 Club (9-10)

Model UN (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Outreach Committee (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Baking Club Vice-President/Co-Founder (11-12)

Emerging Potter (9)

Girls Track and Field (11)

Girls Weightlifting District Champion (10)

College Plans:

Pennsylvania State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Anastasia Esmeralda Lozada

Da Silva

The daughter of Eugenia Da Silva & Jose Manuel Amparan has attended The First Academy for nine years.

Royal Ambassador (6-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Spanish Club (11)

Spanish Honor Society (11-12)

Sports Medicine (10-12)

Student Life Committee (10-12)

Varsity Track and Field (8-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (9-12)

Girls Weightlifting District Champion (11)

Spanish Club President (11)

Sports Medicine Director Of Administration (12)

STEM Junior Leader (11)

STEM Senior Leader (12)

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chaplain Committee (9-12)

Chess Club (9)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (11)

Government Club (12)

Harvard University Pre-College Program (12)

Lagoinha Orlando Church - Rocket Music (10-12)

Model United Nations (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Brickman’s Big Break Talent Competition Winner (11)

Bromans Bible Study Leader (12)

Chapel Band Newcomer of the Year (10)

Chaplain Leader (12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-2nd Place Presentation (12)

EagleMUN Honorable Mention (11)

Featured on Forbes Influência VIP Brazil (11)

College Plans:

Rollins College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Louis Edward Martins

Summa Cum Laude

The son of Luis Martins & Dr. Claudia Martins has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

National Honor Society (10-12)

National Society of High School Scholars (10-12)

Outreach Committee (9-12)

Prayer House D.C. (11-12)

Red Sneakers for Oakley (9-12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Varsity Soccer (9-11)

Invitee to Rally for Vets and All-American Inaugural Ball Inaugural Balls (11)

Invitee to the 2025 60th Presidential Inauguration (11)

Outreach Leader (11)

Royal Scholar (12)

Service Project-Piano Performances for Seniors (9-10)

Varsity Soccer Co-Captain (11)

Varsity Soccer Most Improved Player (10)

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21, NIV

Memberships:

Club Soccer (8,11)

JV Lacrosse (8-11)

JV Soccer (9)

Lacrosse Orlando (10)

Lions Club Lacrosse (8-11)

Raw Footage Editing & TV Production (9-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

JV Lacrosse Team Captain (11)

Varsity Golf Spiritual Leader (12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (8-12)

Volunteer-VBS Camp Counselor (9-10)

College Plans:

Florida Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Abraham Scott Mason

The son of Mr. Scott David Mason & Mrs. Donna Sorrentino-Rewis has attended The First Academy for eight years.

Royal Ambassador (9-10)

Varsity Cross Country (8-9)

Varsity Golf (12)

Varsity Lacrosse (12)

Varsity Soccer (10-12)

Varsity Track (8-9)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-12)

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon (9-11)

GEMS (11-12)

Legacy Yearbook (6-12)

Micah 6:8 Diversity Club (9-10)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (11)

Raw Footage (10-11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Legacy Yearbook Associate Editor (10)

Legacy Yearbook Editor in Chief (12)

Legacy Yearbook Managing Editor (11)

Sports Medicine Historian (11-12)

Student Leadership Council Historian (11-12)

Student Leadership Council Treasurer (7-10)

College Plans:

Louisiana State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Kayla Chanel McRae

The daughter of Derrick & Taja McRae has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Royal Leadership Academy (10-11)

Sports Medicine (9-12)

Student Leadership Council (9-12)

Student Life (9-10)

Track Manager (11-12)

UCA All American Cheerleader (10)

Varsity Competition Cheer (9-10)

Varsity Sideline Cheer (10)

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Ephesians 4:29, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Marching Band (9-10)

National Chinese Honor Society (9-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (11-12)

Outreach Committee (11-12)

Pep Band (11-12)

Royal Ambassador (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

STEM Committee (11-12)

Wind Ensemble (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (12)

Head of School’s List Honor Roll (11-12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Niccolas Gregory Merk

The son of Raymond & Adriana Merk has attended The First Academy for twelve years.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:14-16, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (9-12)

Chaplain (11-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Chapel Band Lead Vocalist (12)

Homecoming Court (12)

National History Scholars Society President (12)

New York University Summer Music Program (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Student Athlete Leadership Training (11-12)

College Plans:

University of Georgia

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ansley Allen Middleton

The daughter of Michael & Adair Middleton has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Tennis (9-12)

Student Life Leader (12)

Tennis Individual District Champion (9-11)

Tennis Regional Champions (10-11)

Top 10% Junior (11)

Varsity Tennis Captain (11-12)

Volunteer-Camp Orlando Middle School Leader (10)

Volunteer-Commission 127 Foster Care (9-11)

Volunteer-VBS Leader (9)

He had been taught the way of the Lord, and he taught others about Jesus with an enthusiastic spirit and with accuracy. Acts 18:25, NLT

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon (9-11)

G.E.M.S. Club (11)

Gov Club (12)

JV Volleyball (9)

Royal Ambassador (9-10)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Volleyball (11-12)

Volleyball Club (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Volleyball Positive Spirit Award (11)

College Plans:

Indian River State College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lauren Kelly Mikels

The daughter of Mr. Sean Mikels & Dr. Ashlee Mikels has attended The First Academy for four years.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Coding Club (11-12)

Comfort Club (9-10)

Latin Honor Society (10-12)

Model UN Club (11)

National Art Honor Society (12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

AP Scholar with Honor (10)

Humanities Scholar (12)

National History Club Leader (12)

National Merit Scholarship Finalist (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Salutatorian (12)

Science Award (10)

Science National Honor Society Leader (11-12)

College Plans:

Purdue University (Main Campus)

Favorite Bible Verse:

Amie Tram Newell

The daughter of Rodney & Quyen Newell has attended The First Academy for nine years.

Outreach Committee (11-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

STEM Committee (12)

Student Life Committee (11)

Varsity Golf (9-11)

Social Studies Award (9)

STEM Committee Leader (12)

Telemachus Latin Language Award (11)

Top 5 GPA (9-11)

Top 5 PSAT (9-11)

Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival Selection (10)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Football (8-10)

Lacrosse (9)

College Plans:

The University of Alabama

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ashtyn Michael Ogeerally

The son of Andre & Shauna Ogeerally has attended The First Academy for four years.

He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. Psalm 18:34, NIV

Memberships:

Business Club (9)

Chess Club (11)

Marching Band (9-10)

Micah 6:8 Club (12)

Music Production Club (10)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (12)

Head of School’s List Honor Roll (11-12)

Volunteer-Redemption Church (9-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Mateo Patino

The son of Dr. Jose Patino & Dr. Claudia Avellaneda has attended The First Academy for seven years.

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (12)

Pep Band (11-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12) Wind Ensemble (9-12)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Best Buddies Club (10)

Dance Marathon (10-12)

GEMS Club (11-12)

JV Lacrosse (11)

National Honor Society (12)

Outreach (11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

GEMS Club Leader (11-12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Giulianna Isabella Penagos

The daughter of Guillermo & Alexandra Penagos has attended The First Academy for three years.

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Sports Medicine (11-12)

Student Life (11)

Varsity Lacrosse (12)

Science National Honor Society Vice President (12)

Sports Medicine Event Coordinator (12)

College Plans:

University of South Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon Committee (11-12)

FCA (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Junior Honor Society (9)

Outreach Committee (11-12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11th Grade Bible Study Co-Leader (12)

Bryan Sotero Peralta-Martinez

The son of Dr. Sotero Peralta & Dr. Diane Martinez has attended The First Academy for five years.

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Varsity Soccer (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (12)

Wounded Warrior Club (11-12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-3rd Place Written Paper (12)

Homecoming Court (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Student Athlete Leadership Team (12)

Varsity Soccer Captain (12)

Varsity Soccer Coach’s Award (10,11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (9-11)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

9th & 10th Grade Bible Study Co-leader (12)

AP Scholar with Distinction (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Micah Lance Philbin

The son of Dr. Michael & Dr. Liliana Philbin has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Student Athlete Leadership Team (12)

Thespian Districts Showcase Duet (12)

Varsity Boy’s Lacrosse (10-12)

Varsity Boy’s Soccer (9-10,12)

Varsity Boy’s Weightlifting (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-12)

Science National Honor Society President (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Captain (12)

Wounded Warrior Club Secretary (11-12)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Employee-Beth’s Burger Bar (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Newspaper Club (9-10)

Portfolio Building Club (12)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Raw Footage Editor (10-12)

Volunteer-Edgewood Children’s Ranch (11-12)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Aiden Daniel Phillips

The son of Jessica Brand & Corey & Sarah Phillips has attended The First Academy for four years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Club (9-10)

Competitive Gymnast (9)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (12)

Game Point Volleyball Club (10)

Lower School Aide (11)

Micah 6:8 Club (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

9th Grade Girls Bible Study Leader (12)

Athlete of the Week-West Orange Observer (12)

Concerns of Police Survivors Blue Light Gala Speaker (11)

Dance Marathon Leader (12)

First Orlando VBS Crew Leader (12)

Girls Weightlifting District Qualifier (10-12)

Homecoming Court (10)

McDavid Golf for Cops Speaker (12)

Pole Vaulting Regional Qualifier (10-11)

Pole Vaulting State Qualifier (11)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Haley Marie Pine

The daughter of Dr. Bridget Pine & the late Scott Pine has attended The First Academy for twelve years.

Outreach Committee (12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Varsity Girls Weightlifting(10-12)

Varsity Track & Field (10-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (12)

Prom Queen (12)

Service Before Self-Gymnastics Award (9)

Volunteer-First Orlando VBS (12)

Volunteer-Gymnastics USA Team Coaching Assistant (9)

Volunteer-Ocoee Police Department (10-12)

Volunteer-One More Child (10-12)

Volunteer-Sleep In Heavenly Peace (7-12)

Volunteer-Special Olympics (9-11)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (11-12)

Volunteer-Tumbling for Tots (12)

Weightlifting State Qualifier (12)

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1, ESV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Best Buddies (12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

Generations United Club (12)

National Art Honor Society (10-11)

National Honor Society (9-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Generations United Club Co-President (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Volunteer-Church Kids Program (9-11)

College Plans:

Florida Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Maria Isabela Prado

The daughter of Fabiola & Alexandre Prado has attended The First Academy for five years.

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Student Life Committee (11-12)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Lacrosse (11-12)

Government Club (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (12)

College Plans: Auburn University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Matteo Ramirez-Orozco

The son of Mr. Juan Ramirez & Mrs. Lina Orozco has attended The First Academy for five years.

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

12th Man (9-12)

Dance Marathon (9-12)

Florida Travel Baseball (10-12)

Junior Varsity Baseball (8-10)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Outreach Committee (11-12)

Quiz Bowl (10-12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

12th Man President (11-12)

Baseball District Champion (11)

Baseball Regional Champion (11)

Baseball State Champion (11)

Head of School’s List Honor Roll (11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jonah Brian Reeves

The son of Dr. & Mrs. Brian Reeves has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

RSP Weightlifting (9-10)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Single Advanced Math (9-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Baseball (11-12)

Varsity Spring Football (9)

Quiz Bowl President (11-12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Volunteer-Coach and UmpireWindermere Little League (9-12)

Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. Micah 7:8, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Comfort Club (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Varsity Weightlifting (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (12)

Bromans Bible Study Co-Leader (12)

Homecoming Court (11)

Royal Reach Award (11)

Weightlifting District Champion (12)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Tyler Bailey Requejo

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Erik Requejo has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

“They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:8, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Band (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Cross Country (7-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Chapel Band Chaplain (12)

Mission Trip-Rio, Brazil (12)

MVMT Student Leader (12)

Volunteer-First Orlando Special Events (9-12)

Volunteer-Serve the City (9-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9-12)

College Plans:

Samford University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Corbin Josiah Rewis

The son of Darrel Rewis, the late Kimberly Cloud-Rewis, & step-mom Donna Sorrentino-Rewis has attended The First Academy for ten years.

Varsity Track (8-9)

Varsity Weightlifting (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-12)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13, NIV

Memberships:

Chaplain (10-11)

Chinese Culture Club (10-12)

Chorus (9-12)

Competitive Programming Team (12)

Dance Marathon (10-12)

Fine Arts Committee (12)

International Thespian Society (9-12)

Model UN (9-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11th Grade World Languages Award (11)

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Chinese Club Co-President (12)

Dance Marathon Lower School Captain (11)

English Teacher at Church (9-12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

National Chinese Honor Society Vice President (12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ashley Favaro Rivel

The daughter of Joseph & Andreia Rivel has attended The First Academy for four years.

Newspaper Club (9-10)

Prom Planning Committee (11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (11)

Student Life Committee (10-12)

Tennis (9-12)

Theater (9-12)

Varsity Track & Field (9)

YMCA Volleyball (11)

Newspaper Club President (10)

Royal Ambassador Leader (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Tutor for Elementary Students (9-12)

Volunteer-Church Kids Program (9-12)

Volunteer-Church Tech (9-12)

Volunteer-Orange County Library (9-11)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10-11)

You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. Psalm 91:5-10, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

TXF (10-11)

Varsity Football (10-12)

College Plans:

The University of Olivet

Favorite Bible Verse:

Adarin Marquis Robinson

The son of Nikia Ford & Jonathan Robinson has attended The First Academy for three years.

For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1 Peter 3:10-12, NIV

Memberships:

Best Buddies (11)

Dance Marathon Committee (10-12)

Generations United (12)

MVMT First Orlando (12)

National Society of High School Scholars (11-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Student Life Committee (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Honor Roll (9-12)

Volunteer-Operation Gratitude (10-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10-12)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

College Plans:

Samford University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Lauren Caroline Rose

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Scott Rose has attended The First Academy for nine years.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Masterworks (12)

Model United Nations (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Honor (12)

National History Club Secretary (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Captain (12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ella Katherine Rumble

The daughter of Ashley & Kristen Rumble has attended

The First Academy for two years.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Beach Volleyball (9-12)

Center For International Studies (9-10)

Game Point Volleyball Club (9,10,12)

Gov Club (12)

Medical Academy (10)

Olivia Valentine Salmon

The daughter of Daniel & Nancy Salmon has attended The First Academy for two years.

OCPS Gifted Exceptional Education Program (9-10)

OTVA (11)

Royal Leadership Academy (11-12)

Varsity Volleyball (10-12)

Volleyball Club (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AAU National All Star Award (10)

AAU National Champion (10)

Student Council Sophomore Class Vice President (10)

Varsity Volleyball Captain (12)

Volleyball Most Improved Player (10)

Volunteer-Matthew’s Hope (11)

Volunteer-Veterans Retirement Home (9)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. 1 John 2:9, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chinese Culture Club (9-12)

Environmental Committee (9-11)

Fine Arts Committee (9-11)

Fine Arts Street Painting (10-12)

Heart of David Club (9-10)

International Thespian Society (9-12)

Junior Varsity Sideline Cheerleading (9)

Masterworks (9-12)

ModelUN (11)

Mural Painting (9-12)

National Art Honor Society (11-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (9-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Applause Awards Director’s Choice (11)

Applause Awards Nominee-Outstanding Supporting Actor (11)

Athletic Scholar Award (9-11)

Bible Study Leader (9-11)

Choir Internship (10)

Concert Band Integrity Award (11)

Drum Major (12)

Environmental Committee Leader (9-10)

FHSAA Cheerleading Regional Champions (9)

Fine Arts Committee Leader (11)

First Orlando VBS Leader (11)

Hudson Taylor Mandarin Language Award (9,11)

Humanities Scholar (12)

International Thespian Festival Competition Qualifier (11)

Poetry Out Loud TFA Competition-1st Place (10,11)

Poetry Out Loud State Competition Finalist (10)

Royal Scholar (12)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Marina Elizabeth Schmid

The daughter of Tim & Emily Schmid has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Newspaper Club (10-11)

Orlando Children’s Choir (3-11)

Pep Band (11-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador Committee (9-11)

Student Life Committee (9-10)

Upper School Musical (9-12)

Upper School One Act (9-10)

Upper School Play (10,12)

Varsity Competition Cheerleading (9)

Varsity Girls Track and Field (8-12)

Varsity Girls Weightlifting (9-12)

Worship Band (12)

Wounded Warrior Club (9-12)

Stage Manager (9,11)

Student of the Quarter (9-10)

Thespian District Festival-Superior (10-11)

Thespian District Festival-Top Honors Award (12)

Thespian State Festival-Superior (11)

Thespian Troupe 5165 Junior President (11)

Thespian Troupe 5165 President (12)

Top 5 PSAT Score (8-11)

Troupe Spirit Award (9,11)

Upper School President (12)

Usher (9-12)

Varsity Track & Field Throwing Captain (12)

Varsity Weightlifting Coach’s Award (10)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9-12)

Volunteer-Southern Cross Service Dogs (10-11)

Volunteer-Wekiva Presbyterian Church VBS Leader (6-12)

Wounded Warrior Club Chaplain (9)

Wounded Warrior Club President (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club Vice President and Secretary (10)

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Babysitting (9-12)

Best Buddies (10-12)

Chaplain (9-12)

Chick-fil-a Employee (11-12)

Comfort Club(9-12)

Dance Marathon (10-12)

Gamepoint Volleyball Club (9-10)

JV Volleyball (9)

M&D Lacrosse Club (11-12)

National Honor Society (11-12)

Outreach Committee (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

11th/12th Grade Girls Bible Study Leader (12)

Best Buddies Co-President (12)

First Embrace Board Member (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

National Honor Society Secretary (12)

Outreach Junior Leader (11)

Outreach President (12)

Royal Reach Award (10)

College Plans:

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Laila Grace Schuck

Magna Cum Laude

The daughter of Nate & Joy Schuck has attended The First Academy for five years.

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

Sports Medicine (10-12)

Student Life (9-11)

Varsity Beach Volleyball (9)

Varsity Lacrosse (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (10-11)

Service Project-Nathaniel’s Hope Christmas Drive (10-12)

Sport Medicine Chaplain (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Captain (12)

Volunteer-Discovery Church Children’s Ministry (9-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9-12)

Yearbook Editor (12)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, NIV

Memberships:

Business Club (9-10)

Chess Club (11)

First Orlando MVMT (12)

Micah 6:8 Club (12)

National Art Honor Society (12)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Windermere Lakers Swim Club (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Humanities Scholar (12)

Volunteer-Clean the World (9)

Volunteer-Gary Sinise Snowball Express (9,12)

Volunteer-Second Harvest Food Bank (9-11)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Brady Paul Sharpe

The son of Mr. Joseph Sharpe & Mrs. Darla Sharpe has attended The First Academy for seven years.

May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for usyes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chess Club (11)

JV Basketball (8-10)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Cross Country (11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Collegiate Honor Roll (12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Andrew Leonidas Silva

Magna Cum Laude

The son of Mr. Leo Silva & Mrs. Giovanna Silva has attended The First Academy for five years.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13, NKJV

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Enzo Kruger Silva

The son of Mr. & Mrs. Silva has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

12th Man (10-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-11)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Pickleball Club Leader (11)

Quiz Bowl Club (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royals Ambassador (9-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Student Life Committee (10)

Varsity Baseball (9-12)

Varsity Basketball (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

12th Man Co-Leader (12)

Baseball State Champion (11)

Basketball Leadership Award (10)

Basketball Most Outstanding Player Award (11)

Varsity Basketball Captain (10-12)

Varsity Baseball Captain (12)

College Plans:

Millsaps College

Favorite Bible Verse:

Maxwell Alton Simmons

The son of Matt & Stephanie Simmons has attended The First Academy for twelve years.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:10, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

ACE Program (11-12)

Art Portfolio Club (12)

Aviation Club (11)

Beach Besties Bible Study (11-12)

BMW News (9-10,12)

Business Club (9-11)

Chapel Band (9-12)

Chaplain (9-12)

Comfort Club (9-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (12)

First Presbyterian Church Flower Committee (11)

First Presbyterian Youth Group (9-11)

Generations United (12)

Girls Bible Study (9-12)

Growing in Grace (11)

K-Life (9-12)

Kingdom Culture Youth Group (12)

LifeFest (9-11)

Masterworks (11,12)

Model UN (10-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

ACE Mentorship Program-Second Place State Award (11)

AP Scholar (10)

AP Scholar with Honor (11)

Bible Study Leader (12)

Business Club President (11)

Business Club Vice President (10)

Casiodoro de Reina Spanish Award (11)

Certificate of Achievement of Art (9-12)

Congressional Award-Silver Medal Recipient (12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis

Competition-1st Place Presentation (12)

Emerging Sculptor Award (10)

Head of School Honor Roll (9-12)

Heart of the Sculptor Award (10)

Homecoming Court (9)

Humanities Scholar (12)

National Art Honor Society Secretary (12)

Outstanding Delegate (12)

Poetry Out Loud Finalist (11)

Principal’s Choice Art Award (11)

Royal Ambassador Leader (11-12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Addison Joy Simms

The daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Francis & Meredith Simms has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

National Art Honor Society (9-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

National Junior Honor Society (9)

NSHHS (11-12)

Outreach Committee (9-10)

Outreach Committee (9-10)

Prom Planning Committee (11)

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador Buddy (9)

Royal Ambassador Committee (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (10-11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Thespian Districts - Group Acting Scene (12)

Varsity Basketball (9)

Varsity Cross Country (10-12)

Windermere Town Hall Art Festival (9-12)

Winter Park Art Festival (9-12)

Royal Ambassador President (12)

Royal Leadership Academy Leader (12)

Royal Reach Award (10)

Royal Scholar (12)

Servant Leader Award (9)

Service Project-Operation Christmas Child (9-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica Secretary & Treasurer (12)

Top 10% Junior (11)

Top 5 GPA (10)

Varsity Cross Country Captain (12)

Varsity Girls Cross Country Leadership Award (10)

Volunteer-Capernaum Club (9-12)

Volunteer-First Presbyterian Church VBS (9)

Volunteer-Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express (12)

Volunteer-Matthew’s Hope (9-10)

Volunteer-Operation Gratitude (10-12)

Volunteer-Ronald McDonald House (9-12)

Volunteer-Second Harvest Food Bank (9-11)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day 9-12)

Winter Park Art Festival-Honorable Mention (9-10)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Philippians 4:8, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Baseball (9-12)

Varsity Basketball (9-10)

Varsity Football (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Baseball-Ranked 11th Nationally (11)

Baseball District Champions (9-11)

Baseball Regional Champions (10-11)

Baseball State Champions (11)

Football 1st Team All District (11)

Football MVP Award (10)

College Plans:

Undecided

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ryon McArthur Elderfield Smith

The son of Maxine Henry, Esq. & Mr. James Smith has attended The First Academy for four years.

From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Galatians 6:17, KJV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chess Club (10-11)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Varsity Cross Country (9-11)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Humanities Scholar (12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Noah Amparo Swaid

The son of Mr. Jamil Swaid & Mrs. Fernanda Amparo has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon (10)

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (11)

JV Golf (9)

JV Soccer (9)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Outreach Committee (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Outreach Leader (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Royal Scholar Athlete Award (10-11)

College Plans:

University of North Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Vian Swanepoel

The son of Pieter & Herculine Swanepoel has attended The First Academy for seven years.

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Varsity Golf (10-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (9-12)

Varsity Soccer (10)

Wounded Warrior Club (11)

Varsity Golf Captain (12)

Varsity Lacrosse Top GPA (11)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9-12)

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Coding Club (12)

Drumline (11)

Marching Band (9-10)

Model UN (9-10,12)

National Art Honor Society (10-12)

Pep Band (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (10-12)

Wind Ensemble(9-10)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

NAHS Mural Painting (11-12)

NAHS Sidewalk Chalk (11-12)

Volunteer-Children’s Church Tech (9-12)

Volunteer-VBS (9-12)

College Plans:

University of Oklahoma

Favorite Bible Verse:

Jude Ethan Townsend

The son of Mr. Gerald Townsend & Pastor Terra Townsend has attended The First Academy for four years.

“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15, NIV

Magna Cum Laude

Memberships:

Varsity Basketball (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Honor Roll (11)

College Plans:

University of South Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Xavier Luis Tozin

The son of Gerald & Lourdes Tozin has attended The First Academy for two years.

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23, NIV

Cum Laude

Memberships:

Baking Club (12)

Beach Club (9-10)

Comfort Club (12)

Dance Marathon (9-10)

GEMS Club (11-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (11-12)

History Cub (11-12)

JV Lacrosse (11)

National History Scholars Society (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

All American Cheerleader (11-12)

Comfort Club Leader (12)

Distinguished Christian High School Student (11)

FSU College of Medicine Heart Race Award (12)

FSU College of Medicine Presentation Winner (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

College Plans:

Florida State University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Ella Kate Tracey

The daughter of Tim & Kim Tracey has attended The First Academy for four years.

National Honor Society (10-12)

Outreach Committee (12)

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Student Life Committee (11-12)

Varsity Competition Cheer (9-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (12)

Varsity Sideline Cheer (9-12)

Royal Ambassador Leader (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Science National Honor Society Middle School Liaison (11-12)

Spanish Student of the Year (10)

Varsity Cheer Most Outstanding Player Award (10)

Varsity Cheerleading Captain (12)

Volunteer-Give Kids The World (10-12)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Blue Crew (9-12)

Dance Marathon (11)

Government Club (11-12)

JV Baseball (9-11)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12

Rolling Royals (12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Varsity Cross Country (10-12)

Varsity Lacrosse (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (11-12)

YoungLife (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Cross Country Leadership Award (11)

Cross Country Regional Qualifier (11)

Dance Marathon (9-12)

Royal Ambassador Leader (12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Varsity Cross Country Captain (11-12)

Volunteer-Dr. Phillips Little League (9-12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10-12)

College Plans:

The University of Alabama

Favorite Bible Verse:

William Anthony Vaughn III

The son of William & Maryanne Vaughn has attended The First Academy for seven years.

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13, NIV

Maxima Cum Laude

Memberships:

Best Buddies Club (9-10)

Business Club (10)

Chapel Band (11-12)

Chaplain Committee (11-12)

Dance Marathon Committee (11)

Fine Arts Committee (10)

Godspell Tech (10)

Heart of David (9)

Homecoming Planning Committee (9-12)

International Thespian Society (10-12)

JV Lacrosse (11)

Little Women Tech (11)

Micah 6:8 Club (11-12)

National Art Honor Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Honors,

Awards, and Service:

6th Grade Girls’ Bible Study Leader (11)

7th Grade Girls’ Bible Study Leader (12)

AP Scholar (11)

Chaplain Leader (12)

Dr. Stephen D. Whitaker Senior Thesis Competition-2nd Place Written Paper (12)

English Award (9,11)

Homecoming Court (10,12)

Homecoming Queen (12)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Micah 6:8 Club Leader (12)

National Honor Society Vice President (12)

College Plans:

University of Central Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Eliza Valentina Viveros

The daughter of Lina Viveros has attended The First Academy for four years.

Outreach Committee (9-12)

Prom Planning Committee (11)

Rolling Royals (12

Royal Ambassador (9-11)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Short Film Tech (11-12)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica (10-12)

Sports Medicine (12)

St. James Altar Server (9-12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

The Thirty-Nine Steps Cast Member (9)

Varsity Lacrosse (12)

Varsity Weightlifting (10-12)

Youth Group Worship Team (11-12)

Royal Reach Award (9)

Service Project-Operation Christmas Child (11)

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica President (12)

St. James Lead Altar Server (11-12)

Volunteer-Camp Roar (9-11)

Volunteer-Lift Disability Network Cornhole Tournament (12)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (10-12)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

Volunteer-VBS Student Crew Leader (9-12)

Youth Group Student Leader (11-12)

This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. Psalm 91:2, NLT

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Baking Club President (12)

Micah 6:8 (12)

Model UN (11-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Varsity Lacrosse (10-12)

Varsity Weightlifting (12)

Wounded Warrior Club (11-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

Homecoming Court (12)

Micah 6:8 Chaplain (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Volunteer-VBS (10-12)

College Plans:

University of South Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Hiram Clark Walker

Magna Cum Laude

The son of Patrick & Darleen Walker has attended The First Academy for seven years.

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7, NIV

Memberships:

Chinese Culture Club (9-11)

Model UN (11-12)

National Chinese Honor Society (10-12)

National History Club (11-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Varsity Girls Golf Team (9-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (11)

Golf State Champion (9)

Head of School’s List Honor Roll (9-12)

National History Club President (11-12)

National Merit Scholarship Finalist (12)

Royal Scholar (12)

Social Studies Award (11)

Top 10% GPA (10-12)

Top 5 PSAT (9-11)

Varsity Girls Golf Captain (12)

College Plans:

Carnegie Mellon University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Yiting Wang

The daughter of Mr. Hong Wang & Mrs. Ya Ping Liu has attended The First Academy for four years.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Chapel Technician (11-12)

Chess Club (9-11)

Comfort Club (9)

K-Life Ministries (9-12)

Latin Honor Society (11-12)

Little Women-Sound & Set Design Technician (11)

Media Production (9-12)

Model UN (11-12)

National Art Honor Society (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar with Distinction (12)

Applause Award Nominee-Outstanding Actor (12)

Distinguished Christian High School Student Award (11)

Humanities Scholar (12)

Raw Footage Anchor & Head Editor (12)

Royal Ambassador Leader (11-12)

Royals Media Junior Producer (11)

Royal Scholar (12)

Thespian State Competition-Excellent, Student-Directed Show (11)

Volunteer-Family Christian School Carnival (9-11)

College Plans:

University of Florida

Favorite Bible Verse:

Caleb Ryan Warner

The son of Steve & Michelle Warner has attended The First Academy for four years.

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Orlando Area Rowing Society Crew Member (6-10)

Quill & Scroll Honor Society (10-12)

Royal Ambassador (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (9-12)

Science National Honor Society (11-12)

Student Life Committee (10-12)

Thespian Troupe 5165 (11-12)

Volunteer-Family Christian School Summer Camp Assistant (9-12)

Volunteer-K-Life Ministries (9-11)

Volunteer-Orlando Area Rowing Society Regatta Setup And Race Assistant (9-10)

Volunteer-Orlando Area Rowing Society Summer Learn To Row Instructor (6-10)

Volunteer-Presbyterian Church of the Lakes Golf Cart Driver (10)

Volunteer-Presbyterian Church of the Lakes Tech (11-12)

Volunteer-TFA Serve Day (9-12)

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:10-11, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Dance Marathon Committee (9-12)

Model UN (10-12)

National Art Honor Society (10-12)

National History Scholars Society (12)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Science National Honor Society (12)

Student Life Committee (9-12)

Theater (12)

Varsity Cross Country (8-10)

Varsity Softball (6-12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

AP Scholar (11)

Christian Studies Award (11)

Emerging Artist Award (11)

Model UN President (12)

Outstanding Student Award (10)

Royal Scholar (12)

Softball Coach’s Award (11)

Softball State Champion (8)

Student Life Leader (12)

Volunteer-Dr. Phillips Hospital (12)

College Plans:

Samford University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Cameron Lynn Watford

The daughter of Dyron & Stacey Watford has attended The First Academy for thirteen years.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Florida Christian Athletics (11-12)

JV Lacrosse (10)

JV Soccer (9)

National Honor Society (10-12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Honors, Awards, and Service:

9-10th Bible Study Leader (12)

AP Scholar with Honor (11)

Bible Award (10)

Alexander William Weaver

The son of Benjamin & Christina Weaver has attended The First Academy for fourteen years.

Royal Ambassador (9-12)

Royal Leadership Academy (10-12)

Varsity Sports Med (11)

Varsity Weightlifting (11-12)

Wounded Warrior Club (11-12)

Distinguished Christian High School Student Award (11)

Varsity Weightlifting Most Improved Award (11)

Volunteer-Snowball Express (9,12)

Weightlifting Districts-2nd Place (11)

Weightlifting Regionals-5th & 6th Place (11)

Weightlifting State-12th Place (11)

College Plans:

Samford University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV

Summa Cum Laude

Memberships:

Comfort Club (12)

Rolling Royals (12)

Varsity Golf (10)

Varsity Tennis (11-12)

College Plans:

Samford University

Favorite Bible Verse:

Hunter James Whaley

The son of Kirk & Veronica Whaley has attended The First Academy for two years.

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26, NIV

Leadership Team

Patrick Barrett, BS, MA....................................................The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, University of Central Florida

Andy Chiles, BS, MS.................................................................................Radford University, Barry University

Will Cohen, BS............................................................................................................................................Samford University

Joe Fana, BS, M.Ed………….………………………………………..………………......……..........University of Central Florida, Liberty University

Natalie Holter, BA, MLS, Ed.D...................................................................Yale University, Rollins College, University of Central Florida

Jennifer Jackson, BA, M.Ed....................................................Furman University, University of Georgia

Joyce Kwak, BA………………………………................................................……….............................………...........……Rollins College

Matthew McGee, BA, M.Div................................................................................University of Central Florida, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Brian Rose, BA, M.Ed....................................................................................Columbia International University

Gissel Valois, BA.....................................................................................................................Montclair State University

Steve Whitaker, BA, M.Ed., MA, Ph.D.........................................................................University of Louisville

Upper School Faculty

David Blackwell, BA, M.Div, Th.M..................................................................University of Central Florida, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Princeton Theological Seminary

Letizia Branz, BS, MA, S.Ed................................................................................University of Central Florida, National Louis University

Stephanie Clark, BS, MS…………………...................................................................University of Central Florida, University of South Florida

Amy Cline, BS………...………………….............................................................................................…Florida State University

Cynthia Collins, BS, BT............................Florida Southern College, Florida Christian University

Jessica Damron, BA, M.Ed, Ph.D....................................................................Clearwater Christian College, Regent University, Liberty University

Elicia D’Orazio, BS, M.Ed……………………………..………………….....…....................................….….Marshall University, American College of Education

Yvonne Englund, BA, MS…………….........................……...Stetson University, Florida State University

Erin Fernandes, BA, M.Ed…..............................................…State University of New York at Fredonia Grand Canyon University

Susan Gentry, BS, MS, M.Ed…………………............................................................................…......Auburn University, Georgia State University, Southeastern University

Neil Harrison, BS, MS, M.Div…………………....................................….........................………...University of Florida, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Roger Harvey, BA, M.Ed………………...........……...................................…..The Citadel, University of Phoenix

Vanda Harvey, BS…………………………………................................................................……..............…….Ashland University

Chad Hudson, BA………………………...................................................……….........................………...Northwestern College

Steve Kavanagh, BS, M.Div……………...............……….…New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Michelle Lindo, BA………….................…..................................................................……………...........……Masters University

Keith Manning, BA, M.Div, MA……...………………......................................……University of Central Florida, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

Elizabeth Markowitz, BA, MA……...........................................................................................University of Florida, University of Central Florida

Jeff McConkey, BS, M.Eng…………...................................................................................................Bradley University, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Grayson Merritt, BS, M.Ed…………...................................Liberty University, Southeastern University

Sean Mikels, BA, M.Ed..............................................................................................University of Central Florida, University of West Florida

Kimberly Moseler, BFA…………….......................................………………............……...University of Central Florida

David Oliver, BS…………………………………………………………..…………..….................................….University of Wisconsin

Sandra Peabody, BS, M.Ed……………….………….....National Autonomous University of Honduras

Florence Pierre-Louis, BS, MS…………………….......................................................…..............University of Florida, Florida A&M University

Reed Reynolds, BS, MS…………………………………………………..........Utica University, University of Florida

Kelly Scott, BA, MA, Ed.D…….……………….....................................................................Florida Southern College, University of Central Florida

Nathaniel St. Clair, BA, MS……….....…..SUNY New Paltz, Long Island University (Brooklyn)

Jake Stoope, BS……………………………..………………….....………………...............................................…...….Full Sail University

Justina Tallino, BS, MS…………………………………..…………………………..............…….…University of South Florida, Nova Southeastern University

Scott Toenges, BA, M.Div, D.Min.…..……...……....................................................................................Crown College, Alliance Theological Seminary, Southern Evangelical Seminary

Darryl Tolbert, BM……….…….….................…………………………….................................…..The University of Memphis

Trey Tyler, BS……………………………………………….…...…………………………..............................................................Troy University

Seth Ury, BA……….……........…………………………………………….........................................................................Asbury University

Cherith Walton, BS, M.Ed…………....….University of Central Florida, Florida State University

Todd Wegner, BS, M.Ed……………………………..………………….....………………...North Dakota State University, American College of Education

Matthew Westol, BA……………………………..………………….....……………….............…...….University of South Florida

Middle School Faculty

Kim Baker, BA.........................................................................................................................University of South Florida

David Branz, BA...............................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Young Chang, BA........................................................................................................................................University of Iowa

Paula Diehl, BA.............................................................................................................................................Stetson University

Tim Dix, BA, M.Div, D.Min...................................................................................................................Liberty University

Laura Durnil, BS.............................................................................................................Clearwater Christian College

Jill Edwards, BS, M.Ed....................................................................................................................Presbyterian College, Cambridge College

Megan Fleming, BA, M.Ed..........................................................................................................University of Florida

Allison Hodges, BA................................................................................................................Texas Christian University

Tori Johnson, BA.............................................................................................................................University of Tennessee

Alan Kunkel, BS, M.Ed, Ed.............................................................................................Florida Christian College, Grand Canyon University

Chris Mitchell, BS……………....................................................………………............……...University of Central Florida

Abbie Nestler, BS, MS...........................................................................................................Florida State University, Nova Southeastern University

Christy Requejo, BS...................................................................................................................................Warner University

Jeff Rossmeissl, BS, MA.............................................................................................University of Central Florida

Shannon Rymer, BS..............................................................................................University of Texas at Arlington

Amanda Serpa, BA, M.Ed..........................................................................................................Presbyterian College, University of Central Florida

Jennifer Suttle, BS, MS...................................................................................................Louisiana State University, Mississippi College

Terra Townsend, BA, BA...................................................................................................................Chatham University

Kristin Tyler, BA, BA..................................................................................................................Florida State University

Kari Ursu, BA, MLA.....................................................................................................University of Central Florida, Johns Hopkins University

Kristin Worley, BS................................................................................................................................Troy State University

Lower School Faculty

Melissa Adams, BA..................................................................................................Palm Beach Atlantic University

Kay Bastian, BS........................................................................................................................................Oakwood University

Ashley Boyd, BS......................................................................................................................................University of Florida

Amber Brown, BS, M.Ed...........................................................................................University of Central Florida, Nova Southeastern University

Shelli Bryant, BA, MA....................................................................................University of Arkansas Monticello, Nova Southeastern University

Tammy Burns, BS.............................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Barbara Camblin, BS, M.Ed..........................................Florida Christian College, Covenant College

Mary Brittan Cohen, BA.....................................................................................................................Samford University

Elaine Connell, BA, M.Ed.............................................Flagler College, University of Central Florida

Lisa DeBoom, BA, M.Ed.................................................................................................................University of Florida

Lori Dowling, BS...............................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Angela Faver, BA, MA........................................................................University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Central Florida

Nicole Kilpatrick, BA...............................................................................................................................Evangel University

Amanda Krieger, BA.................................................................................................................................Shorter University

Melanie Lader, BBA......................................................................................................................University of Memphis

Chrissie Land, BS.............................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Kristen Leader, BS, MS...........................................................................................................Florida State University

Yahaira Loperena, BA, MS.Ed....................................City University of New York-Hunter College, Wagner College

Kathy Martin, BS........................................................................................................................University of Montevallo

Ardis Meloon, BA, M.Mus, M.Ed....................................................................................East Carolina University

Ashlee Mikels, AA, BA, MA, EdD.....................................................................Valencia Community College, University of Central Florida, Florida Southern College

Jenia Norris, BS, MAT.................................................Tennessee State University, Belhaven University

Katherine Owen, BA............................................................................................................Florida Atlantic University

Jill Pierce, BA.........................................................................................................................................University of Arkansas

Adrienne Pilz, BS...............................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Becky Render, BA, MS.......................................................................University at Buffalo, Canisius College

Carrie Roehrig, BS...........................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Sarah Rosario, BS, MAT, Ed.S.......................................................................................Florida Southern College, National Louis University, Belhaven University

Debi Savage, BA.........................................................................................................Palm Beach Atlantic University

Brittny Stephens, BA, M.Ed, Ed.S......................................................................University of North Georgia, Piedmont University

Christine Torres, BFA, MA.........................................................................................................................Queens College, Teachers College at Columbia University

Gerrod Trytten, BS...........................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Nicole Trytten, BS, M.Ed, MS................................................................................University of Central Florida

Kayla Uth, BS.......................................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Bruna Whitaker, BS, M.Ed......................................................................................University of Central Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University

Judy Williams, BA, M.Ed............................................................................................University of Central Florida

Distinct Abilities Learning

Keisha Baptiste, BS, MA.Ed....................................................................................University of Central Florida

Matthew Buchanan, BS....................................................................................................................University of Florida

Jessica Detro, BS, M.Ed...............................................................................................University of Central Florida

Laura Johnson, BA.......................................................................................................................................Liberty University

Paula Katutis, BA.................................................................................................................................................Luther College

Jamie Morris, BA....................................................................................................................................University of Florida

Janice Pacheco, BS................................................................................................................Ana G. Mendez University

Lyndsey Schemm, BS..........................................................................................................................University of Florida

Melinda Schweitzer, BA.........................................................................................................Dayspring Bible College

Robyn Whipple, BS.................................................................................................Palm Beach Atlantic University

Hybrid Home + School

Yohan Ariza, BS, MEHS...................................................................................................................Xaverian University, Colombian School of Industrial Careers Environmental Health and Safety

Annie Bieschke, BA, MAC................................................Rollins College, Dallas Theological Seminary

Jennifer Bittner, BA, MS, DPT....................................................................................St. Cloud State University, Medical University of South Carolina, College of St. Scholastica

Jessica Detro, BS, M.Ed...............................................................................................University of Central Florida

Crystal Fitzgerald, BS...............................................................................................................................Warner University

Kala Gill, BA, M.S.Ed.......................................................................................MidAmerica Nazarene University, Arkansas State University

Malia Gunnarsson, BA, M.Ed................................................................Flagler College, Strayer University

Silvana Hacker, BA.........................................................................................................................Gama Filho University

Justin Harris, BS.........................................................................................................................................Samford University

Alba Jacobo, BA................................................................................................................................................John Jay College

Sherida Mabon, BA, JD............................................................................................................................Spelman College, University of Georgia School of Law

Jennifer McDaniel, BS, MSEE.............................................................................University of Central Florida

Christy Rayle, BSN, eMBA, M.Ed................................................................................West Virginia University, University of Phoenix

Camille Riffe, BS...........................................................................................................................East Carolina University

Alejandra Scarlis, MC, MA, MTS.............................................................................................Universidad Austral, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Darren Seiple, BA, MBS............................................................................................University of Central Florida, Reformed Theological Seminary

Cheli Sigler, BS..................................................................................................................................................Taylor University

Justina Spoolstra, BS.........................................................................................................Northern Illinois University

Brandon Stephens, BS, MA............................................University of Maryland, Piedmont University

Sherian Stevenson, BS, M.Ed.......................................Columbia College, National-Louis University

Kathy Truex, BA................................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Jennifer Utreras, BS....................................................................................The University of Nebraska Omaha

Robyn Whipple, BS..................................................................................................Palm Beach Atlantic University

Debbie York, BS.................................................................................................................University of Central Florida

Commissioned Colson Fellows

Colson Fellows from across the globe complete a rigorous course of study that begins each August and concludes with their commissioning in May of the following year. In this nine-month program, candidates follow a daily curriculum that is carefully curated and updated each year, read 10-12 books, and attend two live webinars each month with leading Christian thinkers in which they are able to engage in a lively, freeflowing exchange of ideas. Colson Fellows in Training participated in bi-monthly meetings throughout the school year, led by TFA Commissioned Colson Fellows.

Mrs. Letizia Branz

Mrs. Paula Diehl

Ms. Tammy Burns

Dr. Tim Dix

Mr. Joe Fana

Mrs. Megan Fleming

Mrs. Allison Hodges

Dr. Natalie Holter

Mr. Chad Hudson

Mr. Steve Kavanagh

Mrs. Chrissie Land

Mrs. Kristen Leader

Mrs. Sarah Rosario

Dr. Kelly Scott

Mrs. Kari Ursu

Miss Amanda Whitaker

Colson Fellows in Training

Mrs. Lisa DeBoom

Mr. David Branz

Mrs. Angela Faver

Mrs. Jennifer Jackson

Mrs. Jill Jackson

Mr. TJ Ross

Mrs. Neia Santiago

Mrs. Terra Townsend

Mrs. Cherith Walton

Mrs. Bruna Whitaker

Mrs. Tricia Whitaker

Graduation Regalia

The origins of academic dress date back to the 12th and 13th centuries, when universities were taking form. The ordinary dress of the scholar, whether student or teacher, was the dress of a cleric. With few exceptions, the medieval scholar had taken at least minor orders, made certain vows, and perhaps had been tonsured. Long gowns were worn and may have been necessary for warmth in unheated buildings. Hoods seem to have served to cover the tonsured head until superseded for that purpose by the skull cap.

The assignment of colors to signify certain faculties was to be a much later development, and one which was to be standardized only in the United States in the late 19th century. This system was codified in 1887 when Gardner Cotrell Leonard of Albany, New York, designed gowns for his class of 1887 of Williams College. By 1895 his designs were adopted by the Intercollegiate Commission. In 1959, the American Council on Education met and reviewed the codes and made several changes. In 1986 the code was again updated to clarify the color for the Doctorate of Philosophy degree.

Today, the color system for the hoods can be easily deciphered. An examination of the hood will reveal a trim color and interior hood colors (seen at the back of the robe).

The trim of the hood can most easily be seen at the front of the gown at the neck line. The color of the trim denotes the field of study in which the degree was awarded.

Agriculture

Maize

Arts, Letters, Humanities White

Commerce, Business

Dentistry

Economics

Drab

Lilac

Copper Education Light Blue

Engineering Orange Fine Arts, Architecture Brown Forestry

Russet

Journalism Crimson

Law Purple

Library Science Lemon

Medicine Green

Music Pink

Nursing Apricot

Oratory (Speech)

Pharmacy

Silver Gray

Olive Green

Philosophy Dark Blue

Physical Education Sage Green

Public Administration

Public Health

Science

Peacock Blue

Salmon Pink

Golden Yellow

Social Work Citron

Theology Scarlet

Veterinary Science Gray

Cords

International Thespian Society - One blue & one gold cord

Latin Honor Society - Two purple & silver braided cords

Music - One pink cord

National Art Honor Society - Two multi-color cords

National Chinese Honor Society - One purple & one lilac cord

National History Scholars Society - Two burgundy cords

National Honor Society - Two solid gold cords

Quill & Scroll Honor Society - One navy & yellow braided cord

Science National Honor Society - Two green, purple & yellow braided cords

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica - One gold & one red cord

Stronger Together 2020 - One blue & gold braided cord

Colleges Granting Acceptance

AdventHealth University

Albertus Magnus College

Anderson University

Arizona State University (Tempe)

Auburn University

Baldwin Wallace University

Baylor University

Belmont University

Bethune-Cookman University

Bryant University

Carnegie Mellon University

Centre College

Clemson University

College of Charleston

Colgate University

Colorado School of Mines

East Georgia State College

Eastern Michigan University

Eckerd College

Flagler College

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Florida Atlantic University

Florida Gulf Coast University

Florida Institute of Technology

Florida International University

Florida Polytechnic University

Florida Southern College

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Florida State University

Fordham University

Full Sail University

Georgia Institute of Technology (Main Campus)

George Washington University

Guilford College

Gulf Coast State College

High Point University

Howard University

Huntingdon College

Indian River State College

Lane College

Lenoir-Rhyne University

Liberty University

Lipscomb University

Louisiana State University

Lynn University

Marshall University

Miami Dade College

Michigan State University

Millsaps College

Newberry College

North Carolina A & T State University

North Central Texas College

Northeastern University

Norwich University

Nova Southeastern University

Oral Roberts University

Orange Technical College

Oregon State University

Pace University (New York City)

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Penn State University (University Park)

Pepperdine University

Purdue University (Main Campus)

Rollins College

Saint Leo University

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Samford University

Santa Fe College

Savannah College of Art and Design

Simpson College

Southeastern University

Spalding University

St. John’s College (Annapolis)

St. Thomas University

Sterling College

Stetson University

Stevenson University

Texas Christian University

The Ohio State University

The University of Alabama

The University of Olivet

The University of Tampa

The University of Tennessee (Knoxville)

The University of West Florida

Truett McConnell University

United States Air Force Academy

United States Naval Academy

University at Albany

University of California (Davis)

University of California (Irvine)

University of California (Los Angeles)

University of California (San Diego)

University of California (Santa Barbara)

University of Central Florida

University of Florida

University of Georgia

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

University of Kentucky

University of Maryland (College Park)

University of Miami

University of Michigan

University of Mississippi

University of Nebraska

University of North Carolina Wilmington

University of North Florida

University of Oklahoma

University of Oregon

University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh)

University of South Carolina

University of South Florida (Main Campus)

University of Vermont

University of Virginia

University of Washington (Seattle Campus)

University of Wisconsin (Madison)

Valdosta State University

Valencia College

God’s Plan of Salvation

Admit “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)

Pray: Lord, I admit that I am a sinner in need of a Savior.

Believe “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Pray: Lord, I believe that Jesus died and shed His blood for my sins. I believe this in my heart and not just in my head.

Call “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Pray: Lord, I call upon You to save me from my sins. I confess and repent of my sins. I know that Your Son, Jesus paid my debt on the cross, a debt I could never pay despite all my good works, and I thankfully accept Your gift of eternal life in Heaven that His death makes possible.

The Alma Mater

A city on a hillside; a beacon in the night Now stands our alma mater - proclaiming truth and right. Depending on the promises of Jesus Christ, the Son, In whom our faith is anchored; in whom the victory’s won. His Word of hope now hidden securely in our hearts. Though years of change may threaten, His Word will not depart. As workmen who have studied and need not be ashamed, Prepared as Christian leaders; we’re trusting in His name. His character and wisdom - the hallmark of our creed, Accepting our commission to serve all those in need. Together lift your voices and sing in one accord, Of this alma mater - the mission of our Lord.