Five years after graduating from Christian Academy Schools, Laurel Chalfant is continuing to build upon the leadership, academic excellence, and biblical foundation that shaped her student years. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Mount Vernon Nazarene University with a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry on May 9.
Laurel shared, “Christian Academy set me up for success in college. It made college work feel easy because I was held to a higher standard in high school.”
As Student Council President during her senior year at CAS, Laurel began honing the leadership skills she continues to use today. She was grateful to be trusted with responsibility and given room to bring forth ideas and “fail forward.” This experience taught her communication skills, diplomacy, and the ability to identify win-win solutions.
During her time as a college student at Mount Vernon, Laurel was also enrolled in the School of Leadership at The Valley Church, Piqua, where she served as a leader in the teens ministry and helped with communications across all church campuses.
“Both pastors in my church network and professors at college have told me over the years that I have a very strong biblical foundation, and that was all learned at Christian Academy,” Laurel shared. She reflected on how biblical principles were incorporated into every subject, including math, which helped her see the world through a practical, biblical lens. “It was impactful.”
Laurel intends to continue serving in ministry locally through The Valley Church Sidney Campus and in her role as a Social Media Content Creator at Smith Media Group, where she supports Christian ministries through digital communications.
Laurel’s story is an example of how Christian Academy seeks to prepare students for more than college and career: for lives of faith, leadership, and meaningful service. Congratulations, Laurel. We are proud of you!
