Featured Alumna - April 2025

I graduated from CCHS in 2006, and reflecting on my journey, I can see how deeply my high school years shaped the path I've walked. At the time, I didn’t fully recognize the value of the community around me, but looking back, I now understand it was a blessing God placed in my life in preparation for what lay ahead!

In 2018, my world was rocked when my husband, Joel Fajardo, was nearly killed in a highway shooting, and just six months later, he survived a life-threatening aneurysm. Then, in 2019, we welcomed our micro-premie daughter, Ella, who was born with spina bifida. Throughout these unimaginable challenges, I was overwhelmed by the unwavering support from our Christian community.

Every detail of our journey—like the private investigator who handled my husband's case and the surprising help we received from lifelong friends and even former classmates—felt like divine providence. Some of those friends stepped in to care for our daughter during her medical battles, showing us that, in times of need, friends truly become family. The love and kindness we received from this community deeply influenced the direction of my life.

My husband and I met at SCCS, and we are blessed with three children: Owen (11), Rae (8), and Ella (5). My time at SCCS was about more than academics; it ignited my passion for math and science, which led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Trinity Christian College (2010) and a Master’s in Nursing from Olivet Nazarene University (2017). Becoming a board-certified family nurse practitioner resulted from years of hard work, and it set the stage for my career in healthcare and service. I was also honored to serve as a nursing professor at Trinity, where I shared my passion for the field with future healthcare professionals.

Today, I’ve paused my professional career to focus on caring for Ella, who needs my full-time support due to her developmental and physical disabilities. While this shift in priorities has been significant, I see it as part of God’s plan. Each challenge has led to unexpected blessings, growth, and a stronger sense of purpose.

In a new chapter of my life, I’ve founded Ellavation, a nonprofit named after Ella, to support families navigating similar challenges. Inspired by the love and encouragement we received from our community, we’ve been able to serve over 45 families in 3 short years, providing essentials like mobility equipment, electricity, and ramps. Through this nonprofit, I’ve seen firsthand the power of collective compassion, and I’m continuously reminded of the importance of community support.

Looking ahead, I’m humbled by the chance to continue making a difference in the lives of others. I’m deeply grateful for the foundation SCCS provided, instilling in me the values that guide my service and constantly reminding me that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and glorify God.