Cumberlite - 2016 Summer

SUMMER 2016
THE CUMBERLITE
A Place to Grow and Thrive
Georgia-Cumberland Academy.
When you hear the name of your
school, what memories come to
mind? What made GCA a special place to go
to school when you attended? We wanted
to put into words what makes GCA an
exceptional school, so we asked students,
faculty, staff, and recent graduates to see
what they had to say about the school. Their
passionate responses point to a thriving
community that is focused on learning
and growing together. What follows is a
snapshot of some of their comments.
Strong Spiritual Environment
GCA strives to make God a part
of the daily lives of students. Through
Bible classes and devotional thoughts
in class to chapel and weekly worship
services, GCA desires to see students
develop a lasting relationship with God.
It is within this atmosphere that students
are encouraged to share their faith and
support one another.
“I can talk about God freely on
campus,” said Amber Maddox, a rising
junior, “and you can’t do that at some
schools.” It is a common occurrence for
students to share their struggles with their
classmates and for friends to pray for
one another or to offer encouragement
through Scripture. Staff also commit time
to pray for and with students who are
in need of God’s guidance or comfort.
The beauty of this spiritual
atmosphere is that it is an atmosphere
of growth, not perfection. GCA seeks
to provide students a safe environment
to ask questions and learn about God. It is in this setting that
students are able to grow in their relationship with God. “I am
so appreciative to be living in a nonjudgmental setting dedicated
to God. I’m not going to lie, I struggle here, but to me the point
of a Christian school is to help me grow in the right way from
my struggling, to be led by someone who’s been in my position
before and who can show me a better way to either deal with it
or learn from it,” said Katie Lassiter, a rising senior.
“GCA is a special
place where students
are encouraged to
plan and lead out in
worship,” said Randy
Kelch, IT director at
GCA. “I love watching
them actively use their
talents for God in the
church. There are many
times when I’m sitting
in the sound booth
that I think to myself,
‘This doesn’t happen
anywhere else. This is
such a unique setting
where students are
empowered to serve
and lead their peers to
Jesus.’”
A group of GCA students sing together
for an outdoor vespers program in the
amphitheater.
Family-like Atmosphere
“GCA is indescribable. It is not just a school, it is family,
a community, and most importantly it is home,” said Kayla
Goodman, a rising senior.
As central as God is to the fabric of GCA, so is the idea that
everyone at the school is one big family. “My favorite thing about
GCA was that the student body and the staff are family. The
adults were so open to students talking to them or just hanging
continued on page 2

A Place to Grow and Thrive
continued
out, which made me feel like I meant something to
them. I knew I had someone to go to if I needed help,”
said Jesmalis Rosales, 2016 senior class president.
“Also, the student body came together as one despite
the class and age difference. People of all types and
backgrounds can hang out and enjoy each other’s
company.”
Not only are upperclassmen friends with
lowerclassmen and vice versa, but faculty and staff
take a vested interest in the students, who often
become like adopted children. “The faculty became
my family away from home. They took me into their
homes. They cared and supported me as if I was their
own child,” said Becca Brown, a 2016 graduate. “They
taught me about Christ’s love in a whole new way. I
live because He lives, and I am alive because He lives
here at GCA.”
“I appreciate the family atmosphere on campus.
Teachers at GCA genuinely care about the complete
well-being of the students—spiritually, mentally, and
physically,” said Susan Jenkins, accountant at GCA and
a parent of a GCA student.
A group of GCA students (freshmen through seniors)
and their sponsor (far right) are all smiles as they wait
for five of their peers to be baptized at the Southern
Union prayer conference.
Academics/Leadership Opportunities
Dedicated teachers who are passionate about their
subject area make for classes where students engage in
learning and walk away with a deeper understanding
of the world around them.
“GCA offers a strong academic program, but in
addition to classroom knowledge, GCA gives students
the ability to grow as leaders,” said Jim Lewellen,
marketing director at GCA. “This school provides
numerous opportunities for students to ‘stretch their
wings and fly.’ From church ministry opportunities
to class offices and student association positions,
GCA pushes its students to find themselves and make
a difference at the school by stepping forward and
leading their peers in a positive direction.”
In addition to teaching core subjects, teachers,
work supervisors, and sponsors train students to be
productive workers and successful leaders.
“I grew in my leadership abilities and learned that
each person is valuable and has different gifts and
talents, but when we put them all together, we can
create something even more beautiful than it would
be on our own,” said Michaela Davis, 2015-16 Student
Association president.
Exceptional Extracurricular Activities
The extracurricular activities on campus include
various musical groups—Camerata, chorale, concert
band, praise band, and Sinfonetta—and a number of
sports teams—Acroflyers, guys’ and girls’ basketball
and soccer, and
girls’ volleyball. In
addition, students
can join Testify,
the drama group,
or sign up to play
in intramurals,
which features such
sports rotations as
softball, basketball,
volleyball, floor
hockey, and soccer.
“I like the fact
that there are a
variety of ways you
can express yourself
at GCA,” said Alyera
Gonzalez, a rising
sophomore. “There
are so many activities
to choose from
that fit everyone’s
personality.”
The sports teams
The members of Acroflyers
often refer to each other as a
family—a family that has each
other’s back. Team members
look out for and support one
another as they work through
their routines.
2 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

and musical groups are often referred to as a family
within the larger GCA family because of the strong
bond and camaraderie that develop on the team or
within the group.
“I love GCA because of the kids. I enjoy
interacting with them through the sports program. I
enjoy seeing them grow spiritually and educationally
from their freshman year to their senior year,” said
Albert Hernandez, ‘08, staff member.
A Unified Mission
GCA exists to teach students to know Jesus as
Savior and Friend, to love God and those He brings
into their lives, and to serve the church and society.
This mission unites the faculty in a common goal
and results in an atmosphere that reflects Christ’s
character to the students.
Melanie DiBiase, a science teacher at GCA
and a member of the class of 1979, summed up
what makes GCA special. “I love the beauty of the
land on which GCA sits. I love the fact that GCA’s
property has been a place dedicated to the spiritual
growth and nurturing of young people for more
than 100 years. I love the friendships that are formed
on our campus that will last through eternity. And I
love the intentional planning that goes into providing
opportunities for GCA’s students to grow and discover
who they are and who God is.”
For some, GCA’s beautiful campus is a big draw. Flowers,
like these donated by Joe Hartsock, ’04, help bring color
and life to Georgia-Cumberland Academy.
Our Newest Alumni
Gemel Emmanuel Alexandre Jonathan David Alexandre
Patrick Daniel Auge Zemira Etana Barnett
Ashley Olivia Brandon Claire Elizabeth Jane Brewer William Robert Bridges Rebecca Hope Brown
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 3

Our Newest Alumni
Katie Shelaine Buxton
Ashlan Makala Calvin
Kehiry Yareth Castillo
Jiokary Castro
James Vernon Chin Kali Brynm Coker Joshua Lee Davis Michaela Noelle Davis
Katelynn Alexandra DeArk Sadie Breanne Dixon Janelle Lyn Dobson Irvin Obed Dominguez
Ivan Iwenofu Arcturus Egbunike Truman Reed Findley Rebekah Eve Fink
Megan Nicole Goffin
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Congratulations, Class of 2016!
Cameron Robert Hamilton Ji-won Han
Jonathan Jose Hernandez Rylan Leslie Hissong
Jason Lee Hollenbeck Charnae Michelle Horton Noah Earl Humphrey Skylar Christian Jacobs
Huiwon Jeong Joel Anthony Joa Andrew William Korp Caitlin Renee Lopez
Taylor Jasmine Pauline Maddox Sydney Alexandria Marshall McKenzie Rose Martin Phoebe Caroline Morgan
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 5

Our Newest Alumni
Bruno Manzolli Moura Cassidy Michelle Munson Matheus Tsuyoshi Nanbu Christianna Alexandra Danae Nesmith
Brennan James Paderanga Niraj K. Patel Justin David Peel Haylee Jan Peterson
Taylor Nicole Reid Indiana K. Rhodes Tova Renee-Offutt Robinson Jesmalis Aylin Rosales
Frantz Lamartine Saint-Val Luis Angel Samaniego Rachel Mae Santana Lucas Wohlers Santos
6 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

Congratulations, Class of 2016!
Ashtin Page Schlisner Isabella Sofia Showalter Caroline Marek Smith Kristopher Anthony Stahl
Hudson Brady Sutton Brittani Annette Swanagan Timothy Michael Verduzco
Jiajie Wang
Yufan Wang Samuel Alston West Alec Nathaniel Williams
Jordan Ellis Williams
Aim:
To live not a perfect life, but a purposed life.
Motto:
After struggle, there is a crown.
Michael Nicolai Williams
Summer 2015 The Cumberlite 7

Voices from the Class of 2016
Each year members of the graduating class are asked to share their “GCA Experience.” Everyone’s
journey is unique, but the common thread that ties their stories together is that GCA changed their
lives. What follows are two stories that showcase our amazing graduates.
Zemira Barnett
I
want to rewind all the way
back to the start of my
time at GCA. I wanted to
attend GCA, but it did not seem
financially possible. Money
was tight. For one thing, my
parents and I had to move out
of our apartment the same week school started. Stress
was at an all-time high in my family. Miraculously we
got enough money for a U-haul truck, so we packed
our belongings and said a prayer. However, there was
another issue. Our one vehicle had broken down, so
there was no way for me to drive to GCA to register.
But God had other plans. A family friend offered to
drive me and my mom to GCA so I could register. God
somehow worked out the money to pay the registration
fees and purchase uniforms. But there was one more
really big issue. When my dad arrived in Calhoun with
the U-haul, where were we going to live?
Many would probably think my parents were
crazy, but they had a faith like none I have ever seen
before. My cousin and my dad drove to GCA, and we
stayed in a hotel for the night. On the night before
the first day of school, many freshman wonder,
“How will my hair look, or will I make new friends?”
But my worries were, “Where will I sleep tomorrow
night?” When my mom dropped me off at school,
she told me to pray and have a good first day. I tried
my best to conceal how worried I was, and I prayed!
Through the mercy of God alone, by the time
I got out of school we were driving a rental car to
our new home. Before this experience, prayer had
not been something personal to me, instead it was
more of a routine or ritual. But this experience made
prayer much more real in my life.
As I matriculated through GCA, problems still
occurred, but now I prayed through them. Every year
was an obstacle of how I was going to afford GCA,
but God showed up every time. I am thankful for
the people who were always willing to talk and pray
with me, such as Mrs. Nesmith who would answer
my text message at 1:00 a.m. saying she was praying
for me, and Mrs. Boggess who was always willing to
Andrew Korp
I
t has been an amazing four
years at GCA. I still remember
the first day like it was yesterday.
My mom in tears as she left me
at the dorm for the first time and
my dad wishing me well and saying,
“I’m proud of you, son.” Ever
since that day, my life has been
changed forever.
Freshman year was interesting. I wasn’t the most
social person at first, and it took a while for me to meet
the people that I call my friends today. As my mom
could tell you, I called her one day in tears because
of homesickness, but she pushed me to continue and
fight on, and I’m glad I did.
From enduring academic stress and spiritual
challenges, GCA has transformed me into the person
I believe God is calling me to be. The faculty and
staff have always been there when I needed them.
I remember walking to college chemistry class and
passing Mr. Sigler as he stood by the door to his
classroom. If I was having a bad day, he would stop
me and say, “Mr. Korp, are you doing alright?” Just
those few words and him taking time to listen and tell
me, “Everybody makes mistakes, but what you need
to do is learn from them,” is what brought a smile
back to my face. I can also recall several times when
I would be stressed about a test, quiz, or homework
that I hadn’t done yet, and Mr. Torsney would get
all my grief because I have his class first every day.
He would always be there to hear me rant about my
stress, and he would just say, “Andrew, all you can
do is your best and give it to God.” That reminder is
what got me through those tough times. I can’t thank
the staff enough for making GCA a wonderful and
amazing place to grow in Christ and with others.
Coming in as a freshmen, God and I weren’t on the
same page. There were many times when I doubted
God’s existence. I wasn’t ready to put my faith in Him.
I was lost and I didn’t know what to do. But GCA
showed me the light of Christ. “Amazing grace, how
sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.” This is
the message GCA taught me, that no matter how far off
8 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

Zemira . . . Andrew . . .
simply listen and give advice, and my roommate,
Ashlan, who has always been there through the
most stressful times and willing to pray for me as
I cried.
I have learned a lot through my time here, but
most importantly, I have learned that God can work
in every situation, all you need to do is trust Him
completely. God has brought me to this point, and
I am proud to say that I will be moving onto college
debt free because of His goodness and mercy. All
I can do now is remain faithful to Him as I embark
on this new chapter in my life. This has been my
GCA experience.
the path I am, God can pull me back. I needed to be at
GCA, and through the faculty, staff, and student body,
this school has shown me Jesus Christ and challenged
my walk with Him so I can believe, without a shadow
of a doubt, that God is active and alive. I don’t know
about you, but when I step foot onto this campus, I
feel God. I feel His presence here. God reigns at this
school, and I praise Him that He does because without
God in this school, I would not be the man of God I
am today. Thank you, GCA, for challenging me not
only academically, but more importantly, spiritually.
This has been my GCA experience.
Fast Facts about the Class of 2016
Of the 69 class members
56 graduated with a college prep diploma
30 graduated with high honors
41 were 4-year seniors
7 were second generation GCA graduates
25 were members of the National Honor Society
69 plan on being in college next year,
the majority of which will be Adventist schools
Class of 2016 Officers
President – Jesmalis Rosales
Vice-President – Claire Brewer
Secretary – Phoebe Morgan
Treasurer – Lucas Santos
Pastor – Samuel West
Parliamentarian – Ashley Brandon
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 9

A Musical Connection
Music is an integral part of a student’s experience
at Georgia-Cumberland Academy. Every
worship service features a time of singing praise
to God as a corporate body. In addition, students may join
a variety of musical groups where they can use their talents
and abilities for God’s glory, including Camerata, chorale,
concert band, praise band, and Sinfonetta.
Not only do students in these musical groups
improve their skills, but they develop a bond with one
another and with God that lasts beyond their time at
GCA. This was the case for Dan Forbes who graduated
from GCA in 1973.
Dan’s journey to GCA and his involvement in the
music program at the school began when he attended a
Heritage Singers concert. He was a junior in high school
when his mom came home from church one Sabbath
and told the family of a free concert. Dan enjoyed
music, so he agreed to attend the concert with his mom.
“I was so moved by the testimonies, beautiful
melodies, and rich harmonies, a desire was sparked
in me to have a love for God that I could share. Oh,
how I wanted to sing and play the piano in a way I
heard that night,” Dan said.
A church member purchased some of the Heritage
Singers albums and loaned them to the family, hoping
that the music would be a witness to Dan’s dad, his
two older brothers, and Dan. The church member’s
kindness paid off. Dan listened to the music over and
over again, even going so far as to write down the
lyrics so he could learn the songs and sing along with
the recording.
In the spring Dan attended an evangelistic meeting
and was baptized. That is when he heard about GCA.
The evangelist encouraged the family to send Dan to
GCA his senior year.
“With memories of the Heritage Singers concert
fresh in my mind, I auditioned for a position in the
school’s singing/witnessing group,” Dan said. That
year as part of the audition process, each student was
asked to write a letter explaining why they wanted to
be a part of the group. “I poured out my heart’s desire
with everything I had. What I lacked in musical skill,
I made up in words and enthusiasm. As God would
have it, I was invited to join the group!”
Dan spent his senior year traveling and sharing
God’s love through music and the spoken word.
Dan (far right) was a
member of the GCA
“I’m so grateful I had the
opportunity to sing for
Jesus,” Dan said. “I learned
lessons about people
and life, spoke in front
of audiences large and
small, and was a part of
impacting people’s hearts
just like the Heritage
Singers touched me.”
One memorable
Reachout Singers.
performance was at a Baptist church near the academy.
Dan remembers that the pastor got up every now and
then and spoke to the congregation in a personable
way, asking them what they thought of a particular
song. One of the church members, named Jeremiah,
always had a positive comment to say that added to
the message. “I never forgot that service. Years later
I incorporated that same approach in some of my
programs, and it had the same impact as it did for me
at that Baptist church.”
Coming from public high school where team sports
commanded respect, Dan was pleasantly surprised to
find that music held a comparable place of recognition
at GCA with students being encouraged to take part in
some type of musical group.
His experience at GCA helped him to decide on
a career path, and he enrolled at Southern Missionary
College (now Southern Adventist University) as a
theology major. In addition to his studies at Southern,
Dan joined a witnessing/music group so that he could
continue ministering
through music.
Dan completed his
education and joined the
ministry. Throughout his
career, he has continued
to play the piano or guitar
and sing. “I enjoy helping
people and encouraging
them to know the Lord
in a personal way and to
use their talents for the
Lord to help hasten His
coming.”
Dan has served as a
pastor in the Florida
Conference for 39 years.
10 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

The Joy of Giving—
The Gratitude of Receiving
Approximately 70 percent of the students who attend
Georgia-Cumberland Academy receive financial
aid. Some need a little assistance
here and there throughout the year, while
others would not be able to attend GCA if
it were not for generous donors who are
committed to sending students to this school.
Between July 1, 2015, and June 30, 2016,
donors contributed funds totaling more than
$855,000, which made it possible for students
to call GCA home.
Two alumni—George Whitman, ’68,
and Peter Hwang, ’93—have taken it a step
further and established annual scholarships.
George established a scholarship in 2012
that is distributed to 10 students annually,
and Peter established one in 2015 that is
awarded to one student each year.
“I spent three of the best years of my
life at GCA. I had attended military school
up until I came to GCA. It was the first
time I had been in a church school, and I
enjoyed each moment. I am still close friends with some
of my classmates from GCA,” George said. “I want to help
other kids experience all GCA has to offer.”
Jesmalis Rosales, 2016 senior class president and a
George Whitman Scholarship recipient, commented about
what this gift meant to her and her family. “Attending
GCA has honestly been a miracle. Each year we weren’t
sure how we would pay the next year, and
it has been because of prayer and generous
donations that I have been able to attend
this school for the past four years. I won’t
ever be able to express how thankful I am
for the people who made it possible for me
to graduate from GCA.”
“I know it might be a small amount to
some, but to my family, it is a blessed gift from
God. I have experienced so much generosity,
love, and care at GCA, and someday I plan
to pay it forward to someone else, hoping
that they in turn will pass the love of Christ
on to others,” said Becca Brown, one of the
George Whitman Scholarship recipients and
a 2016 graduate.
“I want to encourage all
alumni to give whatever
you can,” Peter said. “If we
all gave even a little, the
total amount could make a
huge difference. As Robert
Ingersoll said, ‘We rise by
lifting others!’”
Just as Becca hopes to support a GCA student one
day, Peter had the same idea when he established his
scholarship. “My parents worked multiple
jobs and I worked throughout the school
year and summer, but if we hadn’t received
financial support from the school, my
sister and I would never have been able
to attend GCA all four years. This is my
way of helping the next generation take
full advantage of everything GCA has to
offer,” Peter said. “GCA provided me with
a well-balanced high school experience.
Most importantly, I found God at GCA
and enjoyed Bible studies with Pastor Ron
Cook and was baptized my sophomore
year.”
Rebekah Fink was pleasantly
surprised when she was awarded the
Peter Hwang Scholarship. “I feel very
honored. It definitely helped with my
school tuition.” Rebekah is planning on
majoring in marine biology at Walla Walla
University this fall. She hopes to eventually complete a
doctorate and open a marine biology summer camp for
underprivileged kids.
Thank you to all those who give. Your gifts are a
blessing to countless families!
During a luncheon with the scholarship recipients, George shared
his GCA experience with the students, and they in turn shared
about their lives and their involvement at GCA.
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 11

GCA Friends Reconnect
at Campmeeting
Caryn (Carmen) Payne,’69; Kelly Payne, ’12; Larry
Payne; and Nancy Gerard were all smiles as they
posed with one another.
Kelly Payne, ’12; Jasmine Arellano, ’13; Chris
Pubillones,’12; Steven Pubillones,’12; and Steven
Metott,’13, catch up on the latest news from
everyone’s year at college.
It is always exciting
to welcome firsttime
attendees
such as Kimberly
(Welch) Hill, ’72, to
our GCA regional
alumni events.
Recent graduates, Rebekah Fink and Caitlin
Lopez,’16, catch up with Ashley Davis (center)
who graduated the year before in 2015.
Class of 2016 graduates Skylar Jacobs and
Matthew Nanbu visit with Grant Tuttle who
graduated 50 years before them in 1966.
Isaac Nwadike, ’11; Cody Paige, ’11; Josh Woods,’03;
Annie Jeong,’16; and David Nwadike, class of 2017,
enjoyed the good food and a chance to reconnect
with friends.
12 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

Since 2002 Charles Schmidt
beautified GCA’s campus with
his supervision of the grounds
department. His hard work and
dedication to the school were
evident in the well-manicured
lawns and flower beds around
campus. Not only did Charlie
excel at landscaping, but he
always had a ready smile to share with students and staff
as he rode around campus on the Gator or lawn mower.
A skilled carpenter, he also built a number of things
on campus over the years, including a stage at the
amphitheater and many home improvement projects
in staff housing. In addition, he often helped construct
decorations for band concerts and other programs.
GCA NEWS
Charles Schmidt Retires After 14 Years of Service
Charlie set a good example to his workers of what a
strong work ethic looks like. He was constantly on the
move and busy. It was not uncommon to see his workers
struggling to keep up with him, and they were a fraction
of his age. (Charlie retired on May 31 at the age of 76.)
“Charlie could run circles around his workers. His
dedication to his work was displayed in the amount of
time and energy he poured into making the grounds on
campus a pleasant place for students, faculty, and alumni
to congregate,” said Dr. Greg Gerard, GCA principal. “We
are grateful for Charlie’s years of service at GCA, and we
wish him well in his retirement.”
Charlie’s wife, Karen, retired from GCA in May 2015
after working at the school for seven years as the school
nurse.
GCA Alumnus Teaches Video Production Class
While attending GCA, Nathan DeWild, ’06, was
encouraged to explore his budding gift for videography,
and now Nathan hopes to inspire current GCA students
to tap into their creativity to produce their own videos.
“I only knew a little bit about making videos before I
came to GCA, but the school offered a class my sophomore
year that piqued my interest in making videos. I also got
experience by working on the slideshow year to year, and
then Chaplain Greg gave me a chance to show my videos
at vespers,” Nathan said.
The seed that was planted at GCA propelled Nathan
to pursue a degree in film making at Southern Adventist
University. After graduating in 2011, Nathan accepted a
position as director of photography for Journey Films in
Alexandria, Virginia, which is owned and operated by
Martin Doblmeier.
A professional with five years of experience, Nathan
has seen how videos have become a part of our daily
culture. “I think that learning how to make quality videos is
a skill every high school student should learn. I know GCA
has always tried to stay ahead of the curve, so I decided to
reach out to the school and see if they would be interested
in me teaching a video class,” Nathan commented.
GCA administrators liked the idea, and the wheels
were set in motion to work out the logistics, including
teaching remotely, assigning a GCA teacher to supervise
the students while they worked on their projects and
installing the needed video editing software on the lab
computers. In January the class got underway with 10
students.
“The biggest concept I focused on in the class was
crafting a good story. I wanted them to learn how to create
videos that have a purpose or point to them. I have found
for myself with filmmaking that the best way to learn is by
doing, so I gave the students a lot of projects.”
Their final class project involved producing a three- to
five-minute video that had a clear storyline and showcased
all they had learned through the year. “The skills I learned
in the class will definitely help me in my new position on
SA,” said Cameron Reel, a senior at GCA and the newly
elected audio/visual director. “I understand the editing
process as well as right and wrong camera angles and
shots.”
Plans are underway to offer the class again this coming
school year.
Nathan DeWild (far right) works with video students in
person during an on-campus visit. “One of my favorite
aspects of the class was seeing each student improve their
skills,” Nathan said.
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 13

GCA Alumnus Receives Research Award
Steven Pubillones graduated from GCA in 2013 and
went on to enroll at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Scheduled to graduate in December 2017 with a bachelor’s
degree in biomedical engineering, Steven was recently
awarded the President’s Undergraduate Research Award
by the university for the summer semester.
“I will be working with Free Wheelchair Mission
to analyze the wheelchair cushion they use because
prolonged seating, if improper, can lead to serious
medical complications. After conducting simulated use
and performance testing, I will redesign the cushion
to improve overall quality,” Steven said. “I am really
enjoying this experience, getting to see how my work
benefits others outside the research lab.”
GCA NEWS
Free Wheelchair Mission is a nonprofit organization
that provides wheelchairs at no cost to individuals in
developing nations who suffer from disabilities that
require the use of a wheelchair. The organization seeks
to help 100,000 people annually.
Steven’s time at GCA prepared him for his current
work. “GCA provided the opportunity to experience
firsthand how simple tasks can make all the difference
in the world to others. My classes helped me develop
my love of science (thank you, Mrs. DiBiase and Dr.
Briggs), and the work study program helped me cultivate
a work ethic that has proven invaluable. I will always
be grateful for the people God has placed in my life and
who continue to support me to this day.”
A l u m n i
U p d a t e s
We love hearing from you! Please send us updates about educational
accomplishments, new career opportunities, professional recognition,
additions to your family, whether through marriage or birth, or any
other news you’d like to share. Just e-mail Nancy Gerard at ngerard@
gcasda.org.
Arnold Schnell, former principal and religion teacher from 1996-
1998, and wife, Susan, recently moved to southeast coastal
Georgia. Pastor Schnell accepted a call to lead churches in
Brunswick and Camden County. Before accepting this position,
the Schnells lived in Greeneville, Tennessee.
Bill Westcott, ’71, and Nanci (Padgett) Westcott, ’70, enjoy
life together in Waxahachie, Texas. Nanci works as a Word
Processor for a law firm in Dallas where she has been for 18
years. After a 24-year career with the U.S. Air Force, Bill went to
work for the Defense Contract Management Agency where he will
complete 40 years of federal service in 2020.
Todd Silver, ’78, died from injuries sustained in a plane crash
in Collegedale, Tennessee, on June 11. Todd was the pilot of
the single-engine plane, which carried his mother, his son, and
one of his daughters. The daughter, Gabriella Silver, was the
only survivor of the crash. Prior to his death, Todd was living
and working in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he owned and
operated Todd’s Canopies.
Jodi (Crook) Makatche, ’80, passed away Wednesday, May 25,
2016. She was 54 at the time of her death and was working as a
physical therapist assistant. Jodi’s father, Stewart Crook, served
on the faculty at GCA during the mid-70s. Jodi is survived by her
husband, two children, parents, and other extended family members.
John Richardson, ’80, a resident of Calhoun, Georgia, was recently
named Volunteer of the Year at the Gordon County College and
Career Academy award’s ceremony held on May 3, 2016.
Mindy (Sterndale) Jerkins, ’98, and her husband, James,
welcomed a baby girl into their home on April 17, 2016, which
was Mindy’s birthday! Baby Emelie weighed 7 lbs. 8 oz. The
family moved from California to Wisconsin in June.
Paul Hoover, ’00, was recently promoted to the position of
Network Vice President of Strategic Development for Kettering
Network. Paul and his family live in the Kettering, Ohio, area
where his two daughters (Ava, 8 and Autumn, 6.5 years old)
attend Spring Valley Academy. Parker, 2 years old, is growing fast.
Matthew Smith, ’02, was named senior pastor of the Marietta
Seventh-day Adventist Church and began ministering to that
congregation recently. Before his move to Marietta, Matt served
as the pastor of the Burford Family Adventist Church.
Nate Dubs, ’04, and wife, Kristina, welcomed Ella Laurenne into
their world on May 22, 2016. Little Ella weighed 7 lbs. 14 oz.
and was 21 inches long. Nate serves as a pastor for the Georgia-
Cumberland Conference and the couple live in Statesboro,
Georgia.
Tadia Foster, ’04, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in English.
Sherri (Edgmon) Bakland, ’05, graduated from Southern
Adventist University on May 8 with a master’s degree in nursing.
Sherri is now a family nurse practitioner.
Logan (Ehlert) Roche, ’05, and husband, Chris Roche, welcomed
baby Reef Henry Roche into their family on June 19, 2016. Reef
came into the world weighing 7 lbs. 8 oz. and was 21 inches long.
Kyle Leeper, ’06, graduated from Loma Linda University on June 12
with a doctorate in physical therapy.
14 The Cumberlite Summer 2016

Meagan (Johnston) Szutz, ’06, graduated from Loma Linda University
in June 2016 with a master’s degree in communication sciences and
disorders.
Aimee Burchard, ’07, was married to Bruce Pearson on June 5, 2016,
in an outdoor wedding in Port Orchard, Washington. The couple live
and work in the Seattle area.
Jenessa King, ’07, graduated in May 2016 from the Union College
Physician Assistant Program and is now board certified. She is
working as a PA at SouthernCare Family Medicine in Calhoun, Georgia.
Hans Von Walter, ’08, graduated from Loma Linda University School of
Medicine on May 29, 2016. Hans has been accepted into the psychiatry
residency at Loma Linda and will continue his education there.
Christopher Hudson, ’09, graduated from the University of Tennessee,
Chattanooga, with a master’s degree in industrial-organization
psychology. He is currently pursuing career opportunities in business
consulting and organizational development.
Chrystal McCarten, ’09, graduated from the University of Alabama
with a dual bachelor’s degree in general accounting and federal
contracting accounting. She also finished her internship of over a
year and has accepted a position as staff accountant with Platinum
Mortgage in Madison, Alabama.
Oscar Salgado, ’09, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history
from Antillean Adventist University this spring.
Tyler Hissong, ’10, graduated from Walla Walla University with a
bachelor’s degree in engineering with an emphasis in mechanical
engineering.
Madison Keizer, ’10, graduated with her master of business
administration degree from Crummer Graduate School of Business
at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, on April 30, 2016. She
continues to live in Winter Park and began working as a financial
analyst for Anixter, Inc in Orlando in May 2016. She just adopted a
new kitten named Octavia!
Kayne Leeper, ’10, graduated from Loma Linda University on June 12
as a physical therapist assistant.
Joshua McKinney, ’10, graduated from Walla Walla University on
June 12 with a bachelor’s degree in engineering with an emphasis
in mechanical engineering. This next year will find him in graduate
school at Georgia Tech, working towards a master’s degree in
mechanical engineering.
Taylor Mittleider, ’10, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with bachelors’ degrees in biology and health science.
Christina Shin, ’10, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with an associate’s degree in nursing.
Rebecca Theus, ’10, graduated from the University of Alabama on
May 7 with a master’s degree in history.
Marissa Voegele, ’10, graduated from Andrews University this past
May with a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology and
audiology.
Christian Y. Campos, ’11, graduated from Andrews University on May
1 with a master’s degree in architecture.
Christopher Gingery, ’11, graduated from Walla Walla University on
June 12 with a bachelor’s degree in aviation technology.
Joel Greve, ’11, graduated from Southern Adventist University on
May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in religious education and a teaching
certificate. On June 17, Joel and Kenyon Findley, ’11, were married
in a wedding ceremony at Cohutta Springs. The couple will be living
in Kettering, Ohio, where Joel will be serving as a youth pastor intern
and Kenyon will be enrolled in the occupational therapy program.
Veronica Guisinger, ’11, graduated from Southern Adventist
University on May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in art with an emphasis
in art therapy
Kelsie Nielsen, ’11, graduated from La Sierra University this spring
with a bachelor’s degree in film and television production.
Isaac Nwadike, ’11, graduated from Oakwood University with a degree
in theology with an emphasis in pre-chaplancy and pre-counseling.
Isaac will be spending the summer working at Camp Victory Lake in
the Northeastern Conference as a camp chaplain.
Derek Schutter, ’11, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Roxanna N. Torres-Colon, ’11, graduated from Andrews University on
May 1 with a master’s degree in architecture.
Molly Theus, ’11, graduated from Southern Adventist University on
May 8 as a Southern Scholar with a bachelor’s degree in biology.
Molly’s senior research project was titled “Comparative Analysis of
Comprehension of Non-Content Specific Collegiate Vocabulary in
Southern Adventist University Students.”
Nereah Aluoch, ’12, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with an associate’s degree in nursing.
Krystal Campos, ’12, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Brooke Fehlenberg, ’12, graduated from Southern Adventist
University on May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Jaron Hobdy, ’12, graduated from Southern Adventist University on
May 8 with a bachelor’s degree in social work.
Kelly Payne, ’12, graduated from Chattanooga State Community
College with an associate’s degree in dental hygiene.
Wil Stansell, ’12, is serving in the U.S. Marine Corp and is stationed
at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point in North Carolina. He
specializes in meteorology for the East Coast USMC bases, providing
pilots with weather forecasts. In addition, he is currently working
toward completing a bachelor’s degree in American history.
Ashley Hollenbeck, (attended) ’13, graduated from Southern
Adventist University on May 8 with an associate’s degree in nursing.
Elizabeth Hooker, ’13, graduated from Southern Adventist University
on May 8 with an associate’s degree in nursing.
Kelli Stickney, ’13, graduated from Chattanooga State Community
College with an associate’s degree in accounting.
Kalli Wilkens, ’13, graduated from Southern Adventist University on
May 8 with an associate’s degree in allied health with an emphasis
on pre-physical therapy.
Sam Cardona, ’14, has accepted a position as assistant dean at
Monterey Bay Academy in California.
Summer 2016 The Cumberlite 15

Georgia-Cumberland Academy
397 Academy Drive
Calhoun, GA 30701
Phone: 706-629-4591
Fax: 706-629-1271
NONPROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
CHATTANOOGA, TN
PERMIT NO. 1114
Web: www.gcasda.org
Cumberlite Staff
EDITOR:
Kalie Kelch
ASSISTANT EDITOR:
Nancy Gerard
LAYOUT & DESIGN:
Frank Strack College Press LLC
PHOTOGRAPHY BY:
Kalie Kelch, Nancy Gerard,
Dennis Starkey, Grant Tuttle
UpComing Events
August 7 – Registration for the 2016-17 school year.
August 8 – Another school year begins at GCA!
September 5-10 – Fall Week of Prayer. If you would like to be a part of week of
prayer, you can watch online by visiting http://www.gcasda.org and clicking on the
Live Streaming button each evening.
September 24 – GCA Alumni Event in Charlotte, North Carolina. If you live
within a drivable distance, please save the date and join us for this event. More details
to come!
October 14-15 – Parents’ Weekend. If you are a parent of a GCA student, please plan
to attend this special weekend dedicated to families. Parents in Support of GCA will be
hosting a special appreciation dinner on Friday evening.
October 16-20 – Appalachian Mission Trip. This will be the 16th year that GCA takes
a group of students to Kentucky to help low-income families with home construction
projects.
If you have a new mailing address or if you would prefer to not receive future issues
of the Cumberlite, please e-mail Nancy Gerard at ngerard@gcasda.org so that we can
update our database.