Celebrating Excellence: HHCA's 2025 Staff & Mentors of the Year

May 9 2025

At HHCA’s end-of-the-year all-school Chapel on Friday, May 9, the HHCA community came together to worship, reflect, and celebrate the mentors and staff who make Hilton Head Christian Academy such a special place. This meaningful gathering, held each year at the close of Teacher Appreciation Week, is a time-honored tradition that highlights the heart of HHCA—our people.

During this special Chapel, we recognized outstanding team members with our annual Staff and Mentor-of-the-Year Awards, honoring one staff member, one Lower School mentor, and one Middle/Upper School mentor who exemplify Christ-like leadership, excellence in their calling, and a deep love for students.

We also celebrated Years-of-Service Awards, recognizing those who have faithfully served HHCA for 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years. Among those honored was Michele McShane, who is retiring this year after 23 years of dedicated service to the HHCA community. Michele has served in several roles throughout her time at HHCA, and her commitment and faithful service has touched generations of students and families.

This year’s Mentor-of-the-Year honorees are a shining reflection of HHCA’s mission in action, and we’re excited to introduce them to you.

Lower School Mentor-of-the-Year: Mrs. Shira Thompson

If you’ve ever heard joyful laughter or an enthusiastic Bible story drifting through the Lower School hallways, there's a good chance it came from Shira Thompson’s classroom. Shira’s energy is contagious, and her love for Jesus radiates in every lesson she teaches. Her zesty, loud (in the best way!) spirit brings Scripture to life, creating a classroom environment where young learners feel loved, valued, and safe to grow in their faith.

Shira once said, “I have the best job! I get to teach others about Jesus!”—and it’s clear she means every word. Never one to complain, Shira consistently models the heart of a true servant, pouring into her students with grace and joy. Her deep passion for God’s Word and for the children in her care makes her an inspiration to all who know her. HHCA is incredibly blessed to have such a vibrant, faithful leader shaping the hearts of our youngest Eagles.

Middle/Upper School Mentor-of-the-Year: Dr. Vikki Chang

In every way, Dr. Vikki Chang embodies what it means to be a mentor at HHCA. A brilliant scholar with a PhD and a heart fully devoted to Christ, Dr. Chang leads with both head and heart. Her academic expertise is matched only by her deep compassion for students, her joy-filled spirit, and her humble approach to teaching.

Dr. Chang is known for her excellence in the classroom, her tireless pursuit of professional growth, and her eagerness to support her colleagues and students. Whether attending HHCA Fine Arts performances, cheering from the sidelines at games, or encouraging a fellow mentor, she is a cornerstone of the HHCA community. Despite living far from extended family and navigating the joys and challenges of parenting a young daughter, she is unfailingly positive—never without a smile and always lifting others up. Dr. Chang’s love for Jesus shines in everything she does, making her a treasured mentor, colleague, and friend.

Staff Member-of-the-Year: Ms. Erin Caprielian

While many roles at HHCA are front and center, some of the most impactful work happens quietly behind the scenes—and that’s where Erin Caprielien shines. As HHCA’s registrar, Erin is the unseen engine that keeps us all running smoothly. From fine-tuning systems in Blackbaud to ensuring gradebooks are in order and families are supported, her attention to detail and commitment to excellence are unmatched.

Erin approaches her work with a spirit grounded in Colossians 3:23, doing everything wholeheartedly as unto the Lord. Her clear communication, insightful process improvements, and always-helpful attitude make her a beloved resource to both mentors, parents, and students. Erin’s kindness, wisdom, and servant’s heart have made her an essential part of what makes HHCA such a special place.

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Shira Thompson, Dr. Vikki Chang, and Ms. Erin Caprielien for their outstanding service, leadership, and faithfulness. We are deeply grateful for all they do to make HHCA a place where students are not only educated but also deeply known and loved.