Noé Velez, a senior at Battle Creek Academy (BCA), has a big heart and a strong desire to help others. His positive influence permeates everything he does and spills over into his relationships with friends and those who come in contact with him in the community. Noé always strives to do his best no matter what the situation.

Friends and faculty all describe Noé as a humble leader, just one of his many endearing qualities. He is actively involved in many areas of academy life at BCA. Noé is the BCA math tutor, working with students in grades three to 12. He is senior class vice president, a member of the campus ministries committee, and an active member of the BCA concert band. Noé has gone on four mission trips. He enjoys playing the guitar and has been involved with a band that shares the gospel through music to people his age. Noé's commitment to leadership, service, and character development make him a great addition to the National Honor Society.

When asked the most important thing he learned from his academy experience, Noé replied, “No matter what happens, if you let God lead in your life, everything works out for the best.”

The son of Eric and Bonnie Velez, Noé plans to attend Andrews University next fall.

Sarah Barrett is also a senior at BCA. By the time she graduates, she will be a thirteen-year attendee of BCA. She is a young lady blessed by the positive influences of her family and her love for the Lord.

One of Sarah's greatest qualities is her quiet humility. Although blessed with unique gifts and talents, she can best be described as quiet and unaware of her talents. Her unassuming personality endears her to those who get to know her well. She sings in the school’s choir and plays the French horn in the BCA concert band, of which she as been an active member since fifth grade. Sarah’s abilities are reflected in her strong academic performance, and she is well-liked and respected by both students and faculty. This year Sarah embraced her leadership role as student association vice president, where she has enjoyed helping to plan activities and events at the academy. More importantly, Sarah's strong family background and strong relationship with God allow her to accept the challenges of life with dignity and grace.

The daughter of Rick and Robin Barrett, Sarah plans to enroll in the physical therapy program at Andrews University next fall.