Christian Batchelor graduated from Rio Lindo Adventist Academy in 2013. To say he made a difference here at Rio is an understatement. Christian, who grew up in Sacramento, came to Rio looking for friendships and opportunities to grow in his faith and school work but ended up bringing light and life to the students and faculty at Rio.

After Christian graduated from Rio in 2013, he attended La Sierra University where he continued to shine as he studied communication and became involved in campus ministries and music. In 2016, Christian passed away due to complications with his heart. The grief was monumental to his friends, his family, and every person that he touched throughout his life.

In Christian's own words, written in 2013:

"During the last home leave of my senior year I went to my home church, and when it was over the pastor came over and began to mention how much I had changed in the past few years, I agreed and told him that it was a rough journey. He asked me if I had the chance would I would I do it all over again?

I looked him in the eyes and replied no. The reason was that God brought me through both the good and the bad times, to get me where I am and who I am today. He looked at me very impressed by my response and told me that I was headed for big things if I kept that mentality.

Right before I headed back to Rio to finish up my senior year, my grandfather sat down with me and said he needed to tell me something very important. As he began to talk to me his eyes began to swell with tears. He told me that over the years he’s noticed how I’ve been put down and neglected by kids, he understood why at times I would be immature and rebellious. He began to tell me how he had been praying since then for God to work his way into my heart and life.

Then he looked at me and said that Rio was the answer to his prayers. When I heard that, tears began to fill in my eyes as well, he said that I have become so mature since I started going to Rio, that he can tell that it influences others in a positive way as well. By the end of our conversation, I finally had sense of closure and accomplishment. I finally felt like my life was on the right track, especially with God. By the weekend of May 31- June 2, I was able to be baptized and graduate from Rio Lindo Adventist Academy."