A Foundation That Lasts

Story by Tracy Morgan

With graduation behind them and summer in full swing, the students of Highland View Academy’s (HVA) Class of 2026 are stepping into new chapters shaped by faith, community and purpose. Though each journey is unique, together they reflect the impact of Christ-centered education and the relationships formed at HVA.

Gabi Villalobos’ story began far from Hagerstown. At age 7, she moved from Maracaibo, Venezuela, to the United States after her family sought political asylum. Though she dreamed of attending HVA after her time at Frederick Adventist Academy (Md.), finances made that uncertain until anonymous donors stepped in to help cover part of her tuition. Over the past four years, those donors quietly continued supporting her education. “They’re doing God’s work,” Villalobos says. “I hope to be able to thank them in person someday.”

At HVA, Villalobos grew academically and spiritually, serving as Student Association vice president and developing leadership skills that will help her pursue her goal of becoming a youth psychologist. Most meaningful of all, during graduation weekend, she chose to be baptized surrounded by friends, family and classmates.

Jason Ashman’s path to HVA came through connections made at the Mt. Aetna Camp and Retreat Center in Hagerstown, Md., where he met Doug Hess, assistant coach of the HVA Aerial’s gymnastics team. What drew Ashman to HVA was not just athletics, but the example of Christian mentorship he saw in those around him.

At HVA, Ashman thrived as both an athlete and musician, regularly leading worship through music and devotional thoughts. Living in the dorm became one of the most meaningful parts of his experience. “Having my best friends right next door,” he says, “that’s been the best part.”

Ashman has enlisted in the U.S. Army and plans to serve as a combat medic before eventually becoming an emergency medicine doctor in the Army. He says HVA strengthened his faith and prepared him to confidently navigate life beyond the Seventh-day Adventist environment.

Julianne Paris joined the HVA family as a junior after being homeschooled most of her life. Looking for greater academic challenges and community, she quickly became a spiritual leader on campus.

As senior class pastor and a member of the Campus Ministries team, Paris helped organize and lead Bible studies, worships, weeks of prayer and vespers programs. She also became a key member of the Aerial’s gymnastics team, where she found close friendships and encouragement.

Paris plans to attend Andrews University (Mich.) to study animal science and biology with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. She says the hands-on science experiences at HVA helped prepare her for that future.

While their stories are different, Villalobos, Ashman and Paris share something in common: HVA helped shape, not only what they will do, but who they are becoming.

As they move forward, they carry with them more than diplomas. They leave with a foundation of faith, a heart for service and a desire to reflect God’s love wherever life leads next.