By Rachel Blackburn and McKenzie Wallace

June 14, 2025, marked a historic milestone for Tualatin Valley Academy (TVA). For the first time in its 110-year history, it graduated a Senior class.

The weekend began with vespers on Friday night where students shared memories, created a time capsule, and received a prayer of blessing by their parents.

Celebrations continued on Saturday when students led out in the Sabbath morning service at Beaverton Adventist Church and then with a Class Night with family and friends.

Sunday came all too soon with the long-awaited commencement held on Sunday morning. Students shared memories of high school, presented their class gift (a beach volleyball court at the end of the soccer field!). The NPUC Caring Heart Award was presented and Walla Walla University awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships to five of the students! Best of all, students received their diplomas.

Reflecting on graduation weekend, TVA Principal Christina Orozco-Acosta shared, “These seniors took a courageous step and became the trailblazers and the pioneers in being the first to start a tradition at TVA. Because they chose to go first, they helped build a foundation for future generations of TVA graduates.” Additionally, Orozco-Acosta recognized the vital support of the TVA community, sharing, “This historical moment could not have been made possible without a group of people, including pastors, board members, parents, the high school teachers, and conference leaders, whose support and countless hours of work made this dream a reality. I am very grateful for the community that came together to make history.”

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