Distinguished Graduates
Dr. Nakisha Castillo
Dr. Nakisha Castillo graduated from the Hartford Area SDA School (Faith SDA School) in 1998. Her roots stem from her Jamaican and Filipino heritage. She is an educator with a doctorate and a licensed in marriage and family therapy. Dr. Castillo works for Brandman University, oversees three of their campus psychology programs, and teaches in the School of Art and Science. She also serves as the Vice-Chair for the Governance Appeal Committee and chair of the Psychology interdisciplinary team for Brandman University.
In addition, she serves as the financial officer for the American Association of University Women for the California branch. She has published with her colleagues, developed workshops and course curriculums, and presented at various conferences throughout the United States and internationally.
In addition to being a published scholar, a diligent professor, and a powerful leader, Dr. Castillo specializes in working with the unserved, underserved, and severely mentally ill population. She thoroughly enjoys serving the homeless. Dr. Castillo's research is in community mental health and the best forms of practices and interventions for the severely mentally ill, and minority communities. Dr. Castillo's research interests also include student success in higher education, exploring issues of privilege, diversity and inclusivity, faculty mentorship, interracial mentorship, and racial inequities.
Beyond Dr. Castillo's professional work, she is committed to mentoring young people and helping them navigate the pathways to their personal and professional goals. In addition, she enjoys being a guest speaker or panel member, who helps to provide education on mental health in the community and addresses sensitive subjects. Dr. Castillo is passionate about educating individuals on how to decrease suffering and increase hope.
Ashley Alyssa L-J Marrett
Ashley Alyssa L-J Marrett graduated as the Salutatorian of the first and only twelfth grade graduating class of seniors from the Hartford Area SDA School in 2010.
She continued her SDA education at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. Her SAT scores earned her Oakwood's Premier Scholarship for four years. At Oakwood, she sang and toured with Dynamic Praise Choir and also sang with the Genesis Choir at her home church, Faith SDA Church.
Ashley works as a level 2 trauma nurse with one of the largest Health Systems in the country, while mentoring student and graduate nurses. She is currently furthering her professional education which will enable her to realize her dream and long term goal of becoming a Midwife and Nursing Educator.
As the daughter of SDA educators, Mr. & Mrs. Autley Marrett, Ashley's foundation was carved for eternity.