Although they arrived from different parts of the world, Akira (’16) and Maddie (née Maratta) Shavers (’15) were both drawn to Montreat College for the Christian education and their respective sports. A native of Florida, Maddie played basketball, while Akira, who grew up in Japan, ran track for the Cavaliers.
During their time at Montreat, Maddie and Akira found one another, lifelong friendships, a passion for learning, valuable time management skills, and a deeper relationship with God. The couple each earned their degrees, competed, and experienced a new place, but along the way, they gained so much more.
Faculty members played an immeasurable role in Maddie and Akira’s growth. Akira came to Montreat as a Bible and Religion major but switched to Computer Information Systems, now known as Cybersecurity. The switch was prompted by many questions running through Akira’s mind such as “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” Although Akira considered returning to a religion major, one of his cybersecurity professors, Dr. Teo, helped him realize that he could use his skills working with computers for the glory of God and that ministry could extend beyond the walls of the church.
Likewise, as Maddie served as a resident assistant, her resident director intentionally poured into her and taught her what it meant to be a witness in her daily life. Maddie began to understand that she could share her faith even with those who had different beliefs. Both Maddie and Akira attribute their growth to these mentors who invested in them during their time at Montreat.
In 2013, Akira rededicated his life to Christ at Montreat in Graham Chapel. Since then, he and Maddie have worked to keep Christ at the center of everything they do. Akira works in the cybersecurity field, where he integrates the ethics he learned at Montreat. Maddie is currently a stay-at-home mom to their three children. Through her role as a mother, the leadership and time management skills she gained at Montreat are practiced daily. Whether at school or church gatherings, she often communicates with people who think differently than her.
“This is the reason we love Montreat: it is the place where our lives were changed,” said Akira.
Akira and Maddie advise current students to be intentional with their time.
“This is a unique opportunity to grow as a person,” Maddie said. “Take everything that Montreat gives and get the most out of it. Do not hold back.”
Akira added that college is a special season and an ideal time to build healthy habits that benefit students throughout the rest of their lives. He also urged them to be comfortable with being uncomfortable and to expose themselves to new ideas.
Reflecting on their time in college, Maddie and Akira view Montreat College as a monumental place that defined who they are and what they believe. Because of that, the couple urges other alumni to reflect on what Montreat has meant to them and consider giving back to the community through a variety of ways.
“If Montreat made a positive impact on your life, please consider giving back, whether through time, attending homecoming, prayer, or if able, giving financially. Alumni are vital in upholding Montreat’s legacy and helping to provide future students with the same transformative experiences that shaped our own journeys.”