Edgar Mercado, son of Eduardo and Jenny Mercado, grew up in the Gage Park neighborhood of Chicago, Ill. A member of the Spanish Central Church, Edgar wants to become an x-ray technician.

At the recent Lake Union Prayer Conference, Edgar took a new direction in life. Wanting a clear, receptive mind, he discovered some of his music was a problem. Removing all the negative and questionable music he had with him, he discussed what he had done with the academy pastor, who agreed that he, too, had things that hindered his relationship with God. Together, they decided those things needed to be destroyed.

Out in nature on Sabbath, Edgar prayed before writing a letter to God. For the first time in his life there was silence; he could hear God speak to his heart.

Back on campus, a small group of students gathered around as Edgar and the pastor started a fire. As the group began to grow, some went back to their rooms and grabbed movies, games, magazines, clothing, make-up, and other personal stuff, following Edgar's example.

"I've learned that people are watching me," stated Edgar, "not only when I’m bad, but also when I’m good. It is exciting to see how my experience has helped those around me. One of my friends is being baptized. Students are no longer popular for their lack of spirituality."

Donna Coon, daughter of Donald and Denise Coon, continues a Coon legacy. Her father is one of seven siblings who are Broadview Academy graduates. A member of the Downers Grove (Ill.) Church, Donna’s ambition is to become a nurse. Donna loves to listen to people and genuinely cares for them. She is a member of the writing and photography clubs, and is an editor of the school newspaper.

One of Donna's favorite activities is evangelism. Donna is excited about her upcoming trip to Panama, where she will be involved in evangelism, community outreach, and church building.

Although music is important, her favorite class is Bible. She is fascinated at how Bible stories pertain to her life today. The DEEP (Drop Everything Except Prayer) prayer experience, a random call to prayer, was started so students could pray for Hurricane Katrina victims. It has helped Donna develop her prayer life.

With her beautiful smile, industrious nature, devotion to her work and school, love for people, and deep desire to put God first, Donna is a student educator's hope to replicate in their classrooms.