The Caring Heart Award is provided to each North American Division-accredited senior academy that has selected an eligible candidate. The award consists of a special scholarship award certificate with a value of $500, paid by the Union, and accompanied by a plaque and engraved Bible provided by the NAD Office of Education.
For this reason, the secondary student Caring Heart Award for Christian Service has been established to give recognition to those students who have demonstrated a personal commitment to active service and witnessing activities.
The Caring Heart Award is provided to each North American Division-accredited senior academy that has selected an eligible candidate. The award consists of a special scholarship award certificate with a value of $500, paid by the Union, and accompanied by a plaque and engraved Bible provided by the NAD Office of Education.
Below are the recipients for the 2022‒2023 school year.
Nate Miller is an avid pianist, writer and leader. He traveled to southern Texas for a school mission trip and helped people rehabilitate their homes, as well as planned and implemented a Vacation Bible School for the neighborhood children. Ministry through music has been a personal favorite of his. He often played the piano for various church praise teams, vespers and the occasional concert. As Student Association president during the 2022–23 school year, he was a strong believer and participant in the idea of servant leadership. He demonstrated this by being a leader within the school, but as a friend first and foremost.
Micah Bateman has an ever-present smile, warm laugh and happy disposition that causes him to stand above the rest. He could often be found at the school volunteering to do the last clean up or setting up for another event, long after everyone else was gone. His gentleness and amiableness allowed him to make friends easily and was a constant example of the gentleness of Jesus. He made a difference in his caring leadership: loading a bus, hauling band equipment, setting up the gym chairs or carrying luggage for those in need. His support of the school’s community service and class/senior mission projects has been noteworthy.
Jason Kahari has served as a student leader at Grand Rapids since his freshman year. As the Student Association pastor during the 2022–23 school year, he showed that he was a living example of Christian charity, leadership and commitment to his school and local church. He was engaged in SA activities, regularly leading praise worship for high school chapels, and was actively involved in the school’s music program. Yet, his involvement was not limited to school activities. He was also willing to serve his Grand Rapids Central Church community in whatever capacity he could.
Alina Sorensen is a true servant leader. She was always seeking ways to be a blessing to others and to spread joy around the campus and beyond. Alina sought out those who were having a bad day and it was not uncommon to see her sitting with and laughing with a different person every day. She often used her violin to bring a smile to someone’s face. Alina was voted Student Association pastor and served the campus well in her pastoral role, caring for the staff and students. In addition to leading by example, she was a blessing to the religion department by carefully planning the school-wide Bible Camp.
If you should meet LiAnn (Kyra) Ombao, you would first notice her warm and friendly smile. She is actively involved in her church, community and academy. She has been a strong spiritual leader in the praise teams at her church and the school. She was also a member of the National Honor Society and the Student Association and loves to serve with a cheerful heart. She leads out as team captain in sports and demonstrates deep care and support for her teammates. Even when there are setbacks, she exemplifies a positive attitude, grit and the ability to push forward without complaining. One of her most remarkable traits is that Kyra is unashamed to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Although Cin (Muanpi) Mung waited to enroll at Indiana Academy until his senior year, he made a lasting impact on his classmates, faculty and staff. His selfless and caring attitude made him an ideal role model and tutor in the men’s dormitory. He listened compassionately, supported others emotionally and academically, and patiently mentored the younger residents. He exemplified a loving Christ-like character and inspired those around him to follow his lead as a servant leader.
When you first meet William Ramos, two things are immediately apparent: he has a kind soul and he is sincerely in love with God. During William’s two years at Wisconsin Academy, he established a reputation as a thoughtful, spiritual and caring young man. He quietly observed and regularly took time to check in with his schoolmates. William didn’t have a singular friend group, instead choosing to interact with everyone. During this last year, he served as the Student Association spiritual vice president and used the position to listen to his fellow students when they had spiritual questions or simply needed an empathetic ear.
Herald staff
