A 2005 graduate of Great Lakes Adventist Academy (GLAA), Bradley "Brad" Smith, 18, is the son of Sydney and Gina Smith of Mt. Clemens, Mich.

Brad knows what Christian service is about; throughout his life and schooling, he has been very involved in the work of Christ. In his junior year at GLAA, Brad was given the Caring Heart Award for his dedication to witnessing and evangelism. He also served as Adventist Youth for Better Living pastor.

Brad spoke for the Adventist-Laymen's Services and Industries convention in Cincinnati, Ohio. In his senior year, as Student Association pastor, Brad was one of two speakers for an evangelistic series conducted at Central Michigan University. In July 2005, Brad was a speaker at a site in Kumasi, Ghana, for the Ghana Pathfinders Bible Project.

Brad was a very important member of the Aerokhanas,GLAA's gymnastic team, and witnessed with them. Through all his work, Brad’s explanation is simple: “Working for Christ and sharing His love with others is what helps my love for Christ grow.” He added. “I know that God will continue to open doors for me to share that love.”

Brad plans to major in theology and possibly foreign language studies. At GLAA, he was often heard speaking Spanish to anyone who would listen. He has a great sense of humor and enjoys reading, painting, and traveling.

Optimistic and dependable are two words to describe Alaina Elder, 18, daughter of Paul and Mary Elder of Fennville, Mich. Alaina graduated in May 2005 from GLAA. She has dedicated herself to doing her best in academics and being a positive witness for God.

Alaina could always be seen with a smile on her face. She was very involved in service for her school and community. She loves traveling, writing, wind-surfing, and golfing.

Alaina believes in conservation and protection of the environment. She truly cares for this world and the people in it. Recently Alaina participated in the Ghana Pathfinder Bible Project as a speaker in Kumasi. She spent time visiting local people and experienced their culture while sharing the love of God.

As a senior, Alaina was National Honor Society president and ranked in the top ten of the senior class. She was honored by the American Chemical Society as outstanding chemistry student of the 2005 graduating class and was also a commended National Merit student. Alaina plans to attend Andrews University this fall and will major in environmental science and pre-law.

The most important thing she has learned is “to appreciate the beauty in the little things that God has given and to share that beauty with others.”