Education

Leadership isn’t always about standing in front of a crowd—it’s about stepping up when it matters most. Jossiel Navarro, a Killeen Adventist Junior Academy (KAJA) student, is the kind of person who sees a need and fills it, never waiting to be asked. Whether it’s serving hot lunch at school with a smile or taking out the garbage without complaint, he carries himself with quiet humility and a strong sense of responsibility.

On busy lunch days, while others enjoy their meals, Navarro is right there, making sure everything runs smoothly. He doesn’t hesitate to help, always asking, “Is there anything else I can do?” His willingness to serve doesn’t come from obligation but from a genuine heart for others.

But Navarro's impact goes beyond the school cafeteria. When tensions rose between two students on the verge of a fight, he didn’t stand by—he stepped in. With calm confidence, he defused the situation, preventing what could have been a serious conflict. It was a defining moment that showed not just his maturity but his natural ability to lead with wisdom and strength. Navarro is still growing, learning and becoming the young man he is meant to be. But one thing is certain—he is on the path to becoming a great leader. His actions speak louder than words, and through his kindness, responsibility and courage, he continues to make a difference every day.

That nomination essay for the Texas Conference Adventist Communication Services Student Difference Maker Award, created in conjunction with the Texas Conference Office of Education, made it easy to choose Navarro for the award. He was one of five outstanding students in the Texas Conference who received this award.

“We were truly impressed by the students nominated by their teachers and classmates for this award,” Bo Gendke, Texas Conference Adventist Community Services director, shared. “They exemplified God’s love through their actions, earning recognition as Difference Makers.”

Each recipient received a Difference Maker plaque and a $1,000 scholarship to any Texas Conference elementary school or academy for the upcoming academic year.

Learning about the award and scholarship, Navarro's mother tearfully shared that the financial gift came at a good time to assist with school expenses.

Sharing his appreciation for the award, Navarro said, “I didn’t know that making a difference can help out a lot—to yourself as well as to others.”

Navarro is now in his junior year at KAJA. “He has been a valued member of our school community since the first grade," said Lizzette García, KAJA principal. Navarro actively participates in the Pathfinder program (where he's currently enrolled in Teen Leadership Training), youth group and Central Texas youth ministries activities.

This past summer, Jossiel assisted in Vacation Bible School programs at both his home church (Killeen Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church) and the Killeen Church. “He is always ready to assist when called upon,“ Garcia added, “whether helping an elderly church member move or lending a hand for church or school activities.“

The Texas Conference is proud of all our Difference Makers, inside and outside the classroom. Acknowledging some of them in collaboration with the Texas Adventist Community Services is an honor. We appreciate the Gendkes, who work to provide opportunities for our students and educators to become involved in community service efforts and learn the importance of making a difference.

By Kisha R. Norris, Ed.D., Texas Conference Vice President for Education