2025 Caring Heart Awards

Sixteen Northwest academy students received the $500 Caring Heart Award scholarship, made possible through three-way funding from North Pacific Union, local conferences and academies.

Students were selected by their schools for exemplifying the spirit of the Caring Heart — a willingness to serve others. Each student is gifted with a plaque and an engraved Bible, courtesy of North American Division. The scholarship funds may be used toward tuition at an Adventist school or on a short-term mission trip.

Paul Dodge

Amazing Grace Academy

Paul Dodge, AGA junior, has volunteered and worked at Alaska Camps for numerous summers, which has given him leadership opportunities to work with campers and other staff.

Last year, Paul went to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip with AGA. During the mission trip, Paul worked with the group as they built a church for the local community.

This year, Paul is the student association president, and every Friday morning, he helps lead music and interactive presentations about the monthly spiritual focus for chapel.

We're looking forward to seeing how God continues to work in Paul’s life and how He will continue to lead him to impact others in a positive way. Paul plans to attend Walla Walla University after graduation.

Jeremiah Miran

Auburn Adventist Academy

Jeremiah Miran, AAA junior, currently serves as an associated student body officer, maintains honor roll status, plays cello in the AAA orchestra and a community youth symphony, visits elementary schools as an AAA ambassador and leads as Project Unity coordinator for campus ministries.

While many students at AAA are deeply involved, what sets Jeremiah apart is not how much he does, but the heart, excellence and intentionality he brings to everything he takes on.

As Kilikina Richards, AAA English teacher, expressed, “[Jeremiah] works super hard and is always trying to improve not only grades, but his understanding of the content.” 

Rochelle White, AAA choir teacher, shared, “He played with the concert choir earlier in the year and was not only intentional about getting it right, but was thankful to be asked.”

As Project Unity coordinator, Jeremiah is responsible for putting together six different chapels per year, each focused on highlighting a cultural heritage of AAA students. Most of these chapels have more than 40 participants, whom Jeremiah seems to organize with ease.  

Atuanya Dubreuil, AAA English language learner teacher, said, “I was overwhelmed by how organized, thoughtful and attentive he is to detail.” Jeremiah is the epitome of a willing spirit and an example of striving for excellence in all he does.

Halle Gates

Cascade Christian Academy

Halle Gates has spent her entire academic journey — from kindergarten to senior year — at CCA. As the senior class president, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, earning the respect and admiration of her peers. Halle has a deep compassion for those with special needs, as well as for anyone who might be considered an underdog.

This empathetic nature is evident in her everyday life. She has cared for her older brother with special needs since childhood, a role many have witnessed firsthand. In elementary school, Halle also volunteered alongside her mom to provide lunches at the park during the summer through an organization called Small Miracles. 

Her passion for helping others extends globally, as she has participated in a mission trip to Belize, where she assisted at an orphanage. Halle’s hard work and commitment to excellence are reflected in her impressive 3.8 high school GPA. This fall, she will be attending WWU, where she plans to study business communication with a focus on both Spanish and French.

Jaron Garbi

Columbia Adventist Academy

In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices, Jaron Garbi, CAA senior, stands as a testament to the quiet power of service. As the recipient of this year’s Caring Heart Award, he may be the most understated honoree in the award’s history, but no less deserving.

A true behind-the-scenes force, he has spent countless hours ensuring that events run smoothly, often working late into the night to perfect sound systems, troubleshoot electronics and lend a steady hand wherever needed. 

Whether it’s setting up for a school assembly, assisting a friend with a technical issue or dropping everything to help when something goes wrong, Jaron’s willingness to serve never wavers. He has also spent time helping his local church’s community service center and working in their garden to raise produce for low-income families. For his senior project, Jaron researched the needs of the homeless, and then chose to learn a new hobby of crocheting so he could make beanies and scarves.

Though naturally introverted, Jaron speaks volumes through action. There’s no fanfare or expectation of recognition, just a steadfast dedication to making things better for others. As a friend to all, it's this quiet, unwavering commitment to service that makes him a truly remarkable recipient of the Caring Heart Award.

Kadyn Tabor

Gem State Adventist Academy

Kadyn Tabor, GSAA junior, is known to be kind and respectful. He works hard and is considerate of others, often reaching out to include those on the sidelines. 

He is friendly, regularly stopping by the deans’ office to say, “Hi,” or leaving class with, “Thank you,” or, “Have a nice day,” to teachers. Kadyn also loves making people laugh and brings joy to the people around him. 

The spiritual growth of others is important to Kadyn. After attending the prayer retreat, he returned ready to start events in the dorm to improve the spiritual culture on campus. 

One staff member commented, “Kadyn exemplifies Christ in his even-keeled demeanor and his desire to do the right thing. I have always admired his willingness to be helpful to anybody and to lead by example."

Arielle Teague

Livingstone Adventist Academy

Arielle Teague, LAA junior, has a heart for caring acts of service and is quick to ask about someone's day, hold a door or offer a hug. Arielle lights up around babies and younger kids. She has been a teacher’s assistant in the first- and second-grade classrooms for several years, and she has a goal of teaching kindergarten in the future.

Arielle is heavily involved in youth ministry and service ministry at her church. Every month when the church puts on a children’s church program for kids, Arielle is one of the key helpers, organizing and communicating to make the event run smoothly. 

She is also active in service ministry, helping regularly with a group of church members who go out to the community for yard cleanup, wood hauling or anything else needed.

Paul Kalonji

Milo Adventist Academy

Paul Kalonji, MAA senior, has demonstrated kindness, maturity and a genuine interest in others throughout his four years at MAA. Affectionately known sometimes as “Pastor Paul,” he is empathetic, supportive and always willing to help others, prioritizing their well-being and putting others first, often above his own needs and cares. 

He is dedicated to connecting with others and often gives up his free time to start new clubs or groups to learn a new language, play chess or work on robotic projects. Paul not only lives his love and enthusiasm for Jesus, but also brings smiles to the entire school body with his energetic welcome at the end of each vespers program as he shouts, "Happy Sabbath," for all to hear. Paul is a caring heart!

He aims to “change the world” with a future career in engineering or law, whether here in the U.S. or his native country of Congo.

Nathaniel Taylor

Mount Ellis Academy

Nathaniel Taylor, MEA junior, has been a welcome addition to campus since his arrival from Bonners Ferry, Idaho, in the middle of his freshman year. Nathaniel is the epitome of kindness and care with a heart that gives generously to everyone around him. He embodies the values of empathy and kindness that define MEA.

Nathaniel looks for ways to be involved in both church and school, as he is a student representative on the church board and participates regularly in church services through music and volunteering to help with scripture and prayer. In 2023, he went on a life-changing mission trip to Belize during Thanksgiving break.

His school involvement includes being an academically exemplary student in all of his classes, an avid music program participant and a leader in the sports program that includes both soccer and basketball. Nathaniel is an integral part of the culture of MEA as junior class vice president and as he serves on the associated student body team that plans events and feeds school spirit. 

We are so very proud to have voted Nathaniel as this year’s recipient of the Caring Heart Award!

Maria Burns

Orcas Christian School

Originally from Indonesia and now a resident of Orcas Island, Maria Burns, OCS junior, exemplifies compassion and service. She has shown a passion for mission work, eagerly participating in every school-sponsored mission trip she can. 

Maria’s commitment to service extends beyond mission trips — she radiates kindness and positivity across her campus. Through her actions, she fosters a welcoming environment, building strong and mature relationships with peers and students alike. Whether lending a hand or offering words of encouragement, Maria’s light shines bright, embodying the Christian values of love and connection in all she does. 

Her dedication to helping others makes her a true role model and an inspiration to those around her. Maria’s dedication to making a difference serves as a powerful example of how one person can positively impact their community and inspire others to do the same.

Trygg Patchin

Portland Adventist Academy

Trygg Patchin, PAA senior, is an extraordinary young man and a true blessing to the school community. A dedicated athlete, high-achieving scholar, skilled communicator and visionary leader, Trygg consistently seeks out individuals who may feel marginalized, ensuring they feel seen, valued and included. His infectious smile and joy inspire those around him. 

Trygg has led in the student association, his class and as captain of the Cougar basketball team. He also founded the Jesus Club, extending his influence across campus. When Trygg spoke for PAA’s student week of worship, the moment he took the stage, the room went silent. Students and adults leaned in to listen, not just because his testimony was meaningful, but because Trygg has spent his four years at PAA living a Christ-centered, character-driven life. 

Everyone wanted to hear what he had to say because he has impacted the campus so positively. He powerfully shared his testimony of giving his “yes” to Jesus and invited everyone on campus to do the same. It was a profound moment for the community to hear a student so highly regarded share the way Jesus has changed his life.

Mia T. Chai

Puget Sound Adventist Academy

Mia T. Chai, PSAA senior, is one of the hardest-working students on campus. She is known by many as a kind and generous person. For a couple younger students this year, her outreach and befriending have been paramount to their success and love for school. 

Besides achieving top marks academically, she pours herself into as many music opportunities as her schedule allows. She plays in the band and sings in the choir. At chapel, she leads a praise team regularly. She often plays piano accompaniment for PSAA and KSDA choral groups, all the while displaying focus and professionalism. Her love of music and desire to serve others fuel this prolific participation. She also performs piano solos occasionally. 

She is a loyal friend, and her presence will be missed by students and teachers when she starts her next chapter.

Braiden Perry

Rogue Valley Adventist Academy

Braiden Perry, RVAA senior, was new his freshman year, as his family had just moved to this community. To almost everyone, he was quiet and unassuming, but deep down there was a leader in the making. He became a driving force on the school’s basketball team and is currently a strong team captain. 

With his younger siblings attending RVAA, he is a positive influence on students in all grade levels. He has been active as a student association officer and encourages his classmates to engage fully with all school activities. Braiden is known for helping those around him. He spends summers working on campus and has also helped church members with yard work.

Braiden also joined the Medford Church mission trip to India. He and the others were able to witness true miracles happen right before their eyes. He’s an exceptional son, brother, student and community member who has made a meaningful impact.

Jasmin Cruz

Skagit Adventist Academy

SAA is pleased to nominate Jasmin Cruz as a 2025 recipient of the Caring Heart Award. Jasmin, SAA senior, has always attended SAA and is the student most likely to smile and greet you as you come on campus.

Jasmin has a heart for service. Any time something needs to be moved or put away, she is the first to offer a hand. During all-school activities, she mixes with the elementary students and encourages their participation. During the last mission trip, Jasmin helped by painting the lunchroom, moving concrete blocks, picking up used materials or trash, and interacting with the local students.

Jasmin is a servant leader. She isn’t always leading from the front of the room, but she’s always involved, making sure the small details don’t get missed. 

Thank you, Jasmin, for your dedicated leadership and for letting God use you!

Isabella Brandon

Tualatin Valley Academy

Isabella Brandon, TVA junior, is a dedicated and compassionate young leader with a heart for service. Actively involved in youth leadership ministry at Beaverton Church and Pathfinders, she mentors younger students, helping guide them with wisdom and care. 

Her grit and determination shine through in every challenge she takes on, and she has excelled in leadership roles, serving as both class president and student association president. Last summer, Isabella participated in a local mission trip to Milo Academy, where she supported the school’s mission and engaged with the students. 

Her selflessness, strong leadership skills and ability to inspire others have earned her the respect of her peers and mentors. Isabella embodies the values of kindness, compassion and service that the Caring Heart Award represents.

Kaitlyn Rivas

Upper Columbia Academy

Kaitlyn Rivas, UCA senior, has attended all four years and UCA Elementary School for seventh and eighth grade. She and her family have been instrumental in service projects at church and school. 

As a member of the UCA student body, Kaitlyn has been a leader as a cafeteria worker and supervisor and is essential to childcare on campus. She has volunteered many hours on weekends at UCA and at Providence Medical Center in Spokane. 

She has a heart for service, though sometimes this is only noticed behind the scenes. UCA has been blessed to experience the gifts that God has given Kaitlyn. She hopes to become a nurse where she will surely be the face of Jesus for many of her future patients.

Asher Peterson

Walla Walla Valley Academy

Asher Peterson, WVAA senior, is the ultimate caring heart. Asher is always cheerful and kind. He is a friend to everyone — especially students who might struggle to connect with others. He is friendly, always greeting students and teachers by name in the hallways. He always gives someone the benefit of the doubt, even when they don't return the favor. He looks you in the eye and asks how you're doing — and he genuinely wants to know!

Asher is an athlete, a musician, a thespian and a leader. He always wants to help. He offers heartfelt compliments, and he never gossips. Students trust Asher, which is some of the highest praise that can be offered. 

The faculty and staff at WWVA are honored to know Asher and support him as our Caring Heart representative.

Adventist schools across the Northwest create active opportunities for Christian growth. Find a Northwest Adventist school near you at npuc.org/schools.