Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, welcomed two major convocations to campus this summer, giving the school an opportunity to connect with families, alumni, and the wider community. The gatherings were also the first major events R.D. Gallant hosted at MHA as the new principal, alongside Cindy Roldan, director of Student Services and Registrar.

On June 27, MHA hosted the Indonesian Convocation, welcoming approximately 650 people for worship, fellowship, and community. MHA hosted an informational table where Gallant and Roldan connected with families interested in learning more about the school.

Alumni parents Natalia and Julia were among those encouraging families to stop by.

“Natalia and Julia kept sending parents our way, encouraging them to learn more about sending their children to MHA. Seeing our alumni families advocate for the school was incredibly meaningful.”

The gathering also included a special first: attendees stayed to share a meal together on the MHA field, extending the fellowship beyond the day’s program.

For alumni, being back on campus made the event even more meaningful. Alumnus Brody Koloay shared, “We loved that it was at MHA because we already missed you guys.”

On August 8, MHA hosted the Hispanic Convocation, welcoming approximately 500 people. With mental health as an important focus of the event, Gallant had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A about education, while he and Roldan also connected with families and alumni at the MHA table.

One of those connections was with a new family who had recently moved to the area. They were excited to discover MHA at the convocation and connect with the school as they considered enrolling their child. It was a meaningful example of how hosting these gatherings can create new relationships with families in the community.

Together, the two gatherings highlighted MHA as more than a place of learning. They provided opportunities to welcome new families, reconnect with alumni, and strengthen relationships within the communities MHA serves.

—Cindy Roland is Mile High Academy director of Student Services. Photos by Cindy Roland.