Senior Spotlight | Elijah Miller

Elijah first attended LCA in third grade, then left during the COVID-19 pandemic. He returned in eighth grade and has since made the most of high school, becoming actively involved in athletics, student organizations, and spiritual leadership. His activities include wrestling, soccer, National Honor Society, Interact, and the Spiritual Leadership Institute (SLi). However, two experiences have been particularly meaningful to him: wrestling and leading Jesus Club, a responsibility he assumed during his sophomore year.

Throughout his time at LCA, Elijah has developed a deeper understanding of leadership and the importance of building relationships with people from different backgrounds and social circles. He credits much of his personal growth to learning how to connect with others and recognize their individual strengths.

"I've grown so much in being able to reach different people based on where they're at," Elijah shared. "It's about meeting people where they are, just as Jesus would meet me."

That philosophy has shaped how he leads Jesus Club and mentors younger students. As a senior, Elijah intentionally encourages freshmen and helps them recognize the potential God has placed within them. He believes effective leadership begins with seeing the good in others and inspiring them to pursue it.

"Being able to build up freshmen the way I wanted to be built up when I was a freshman has been really meaningful," he explained. "It's about calling people higher and into the character God created them to have."

Elijah is especially grateful for the teachers and mentors who have encouraged him along the way. Former LCA teacher Ms. Warbeck played a significant role in shaping his approach to Bible classes, relationships, and leadership. Her consistent encouragement helped him recognize his capabilities and develop the confidence to pursue opportunities outside his comfort zone.

He also credits Mr. V with being an important influence throughout high school. Their relationship, which began during Elijah's freshman year, has developed into a meaningful mentorship that he hopes will continue beyond graduation.

On the wrestling mat, Elijah has built an impressive record. Since eighth grade, he has competed at the state level at the Tacoma Dome, an experience he considers one of his favorite LCA traditions. As he enters his final wrestling season, Elijah hopes to return to the state tournament, earn another placement, and ultimately capture a state championship. Beyond individual accomplishments, he treasures the camaraderie, shared experiences, and friendships he's built while traveling and competing with his teammates.

Following graduation, Elijah plans to attend Grand Canyon University, where he has committed to studying exercise science with an emphasis on physical therapy. His long-term goal is to become a physical therapist for a professional sports organization, potentially working with a baseball or soccer team. He is also considering returning home to pursue additional education as he works toward that career.

Although Elijah is excited about the opportunities ahead, he knows he will miss the close-knit community that has been such an important part of his LCA experience.

"I think I'll miss how close we are," he reflected. "Our school is small enough that you can build relationships with almost everyone. Going into college, I know I won't immediately have that same connection with so many people."

As he prepares for graduation, Elijah encourages younger students to appreciate the everyday moments that make their high school years memorable. His advice is simple: invest in friendships, spend time together outside of school, and take advantage of every opportunity.

"I remember being told as a freshman that high school goes by quickly," he said. "Now I'm a senior, and it feels like that was just yesterday. Take advantage of all the time you have because very quickly it'll be over."

When asked to complete the sentence, "LCA has taught me..." Elijah offered a response that reflects both his journey and his aspirations: "To fly higher than expectations."

As Elijah prepares for his next chapter, he leaves LCA with a legacy of leadership, perseverance, and faith. His commitment to encouraging others, building authentic relationships, and pursuing excellence reflects the impact one student can have on an entire school community.