Stellar Seniors & Galactic Grads
It’s graduation season!
We are so proud of the graduates in our conference. Whether they attended an Adventist school or a public school, our students have shined a light for Jesus through their studies, extracurriculars, friendships, and character. We pray that they will continue to shine as they move into the next steps in their lives. Below are just a few of the stellar high school seniors and galactic eighth-grade graduates of Southeastern California Conference. We received so many awesome graduate stories, so make sure you’re following our social medias to see everyone!
STELLAR SENIORS
David Alcalá – If you visit the campus of Colony High School in Ontario, you may be fortunate enough to meet David, a dynamic, multi-talented musician who is also a scholar- athlete. He is well-liked, friendly, sociable, and outgoing. David is a committed, involved deacon, whose character reflects his compassion and genuine concern for others.
Mia Aquino – Mia is a senior from Redlands Adventist Academy. She is the Associated Student Body president, a campus ministry co-music director, and a member of the National Honor Society. She was baptized at Loma Linda Filipino church, where she actively serves as church pianist. She plans to attend Southern Adventist University to become a clinical lab scientist and, eventually, a doctor of pharmacy.
Larra Lacificar – Larra is a senior at Redlands High School. She will be attending Southern Adventist University to pursue nursing. Her favorite memory verse is John 14:27: "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid" (NLT).
Nathan Mc Comb – Nathan is graduating from Redlands Adventist Academy this year. He has a great sense of humor and sense of style and is a great cook and athlete! He is loved by his family, friends, and teachers alike. He is a blessing to everyone around him, and we can't wait to see how the Lord continues to lead in his life!
Kamaria Patterson-De La Vega – Kamaria is a senior at Rancho Verde High in Moreno Valley. Kamaria currently holds a 4.2 GPA. She is a section leader in the (honors) band, where she plays the trumpet. Kamaria has recently been accepted to her school of choice, UC Davis, with a major in animal science.
Noah Saesim – Noah is graduating from Loma Linda Academy this June with a 4.2 GPA. An awesome student leader, member of the Korean Cultural Club, and the captain of the varsity golf team, Noah will be heading to Southern Adventist University as a marketing management and biology major.
Nicole Seheult – Nicole is a senior at Loma Linda Academy. In addition to graduating at the top of her class at LLA, she also earned the Congressional Award Gold Medal in 2023—something that only 483 individuals in the entire country achieved. She will be pursuing a biochemistry degree at Southern Adventist University.
Adrian Ventura – Adrian is a senior at Upland High School and a member of Chino Spanish church. He played JV football his freshman through junior year. Adrian maintained a 4.0 GPA during his tenure and was well known in academic circles for his exuberant personality and humanitarianism. Adrian will be attending UC Riverside this fall to major in economics.
GALACTIC GRADS
Alaina Billock – Alaina is a proud graduate of Oceanside Adventist Elementary School. She continues to be a dedicated student and determined athlete whose love for her family and friends is all encompassing as she continues to grow as a Christian.
Jordon Buffington – Jordon is a kind, respectful young man who wants to learn more about electronics. He is a big gamer. He loves the Lord and loves being around his church buddies at the 16th Street church in San Bernardino. He is graduating from the eighth grade at Barbara Phelps Community School and will attend Citrus Valley High School in the fall.
Krystal Cordoba – Krystal is graduating from eighth grade at Esqueda Elementary. She is always participating in sports—soccer, volleyball, but her favorite is basketball. She got first place in speech and debate from her school district. She is an active member of the Pathfinder club, preaching and always willing and available to help her community, along with friends and family.
Yerami Olan Palma – Yerami, an eighth-grade graduate at El Cajon SDA Christian School, is “courageous as a bear.” Those are her words, and anyone who has seen her battle scleroderma this year would agree. Through pain and treatments, infusions and physical therapy, Yerami comes to school with a beautiful smile and caring heart. She’s the embodiment of grit and grace, and the El Cajon school and supportive church community couldn’t be prouder of our brave girl.
Logan Parchamento – Logan is graduating from eighth grade at Loma Linda Academy (LLA). Since the age of eight, Logan has been actively serving God in sharing the gospel through preaching, singing, and voice acting. He is a co-host of the Love Me musical aired on Hope Channel, a regular cast member on Discovery Mountain, and a singer/actor/speaker on 3 ABN Kids Network. He is currently the religious vice president of his eighth-grade class at LLA and actively involved in Campus Life Ministry, Student Association, and journalism/broadcasting.
Ryan Seheult – Ryan is graduating from eighth grade and will be going to Loma Linda Academy. He enjoys baseball, basketball, and cross country running. He is active in the Junior High Sabbath School leadership program with Doug Mace at the Loma Linda University church (LLUC). He is a percussionist in the Loma Linda Junior High Concert Winds and plays handbells at LLUC.
