Background:

In 2003 the trajectory of my life was completely altered when my family moved to Hilton Head and I ended up at HHCA. The Lord was at work, even in those moments when I was completely unaware--HHCA teachers + mentors were the ones who led me to a knowing, saving faith in Jesus Christ. I know call Nashville, TN home + teach Bible classes + lead our golf program at Franklin Road Academy in the Music City.

Mr. Langhals + Mr. Suddeth were quite patient with me as I ate into their free/planning time by talking their ears off. Yet they still listened to me, cared about me and didn't push me away. Looking back, I can see that my teachers laid a foundation for the faith I have today.

- Hayben Copeland (Class of 2008)

What is one piece of advice for current HHCA students?

I teach a class called "Faith and Film" + students search for spiritual significance in Hollywood movies like Interstellar or A River Runs Through It. The purpose statement for the class is in Psalm 24: "The earth is the Lord's and everything in it." My encouragement is to see that God is not just the Lord of spiritual things or Bible class. He is the Lord of all. My science teachers Mr. Sanders + Mr. Schmucker would marvel at the beauty of science. To them, the anatomy of the ear or the order of the scientific method were all evidence of a masterful, loving, creative God. Those science teachers helped me see that my faith could be active in math and science...not just in Bible class or chapel.

How did your time at HHCA influence your career path?

I spent a lot of time in the "Bible closet" at HHCA. Mr. Langhals + Mr. Suddeth were quite patient with me as I ate into their free/planning time by talking their ears off. Yet they still listened to me, cared about me and didn't push me away. Looking back, I can see that my teachers laid a foundation for the faith I have today. The teachers at HHCA are the main reason why I believe the Lord called me to teach and coach.