Familiar Faces, New Roles

There’s something uniquely special about a place that draws you back after you’ve left it. For alumni John Caden Falkins and Avery Paine, returning to Cornerstone isn’t just about starting a new role; it’s about stepping back onto a campus that helped shape them into the people they are today, this time not as students, but as contributors to the school that once poured into them.

John Caden: Back on Campus with Purpose and Precision

A proud graduate of the Class of 2025, John Caden Falkins has returned to Cornerstone as AVL/Tech Support, bringing his love for worship, production, and the arts back to campus in a new capacity. “I wanted to continue to support Cornerstone and my friends as they are continuing with high school,” he shared. “Cornerstone means a lot to me, it has developed my faith, skills, and personality to where I am today.”

Since graduating, John Caden has remained active in the creative world, honing his abilities as a musician, worship leader, and AVL engineer. His summer schedule has included leading worship nights at his church and helping with musical theater productions. Now back on campus, he’s especially eager to support the Worship Ministry Team, a group that had a huge impact on his high school journey.

While the transition from student to staff might feel a little strange,“It will take time to get used to being on campus as a staff and not a student with classes and a schedule,” he admitted. John Caden is already focused on creating a smoother experience for current students. “I hope to make an impact by creating an enjoyable and stress-free environment at events like Gatherings, Heartbeat Worship, Musical Theatre, and more,” he said. “I want students to enjoy the moment, without worrying about the technical side of things.” 

Avery: Capturing Cornerstone’s Story Through the Lens

Also returning to Cornerstone is Avery Paine, who will serve as School Photographer, Fine Arts Support, Yearbook coordinator and club leader, and assistant volleyball coach. A 2021 Cornerstone graduate and recent Louisiana State University alum with a degree in Screen Arts, Avery is thrilled to be back where her creative journey began.

“Photography is my passion,” she said, “so the opportunity to combine that with one of my favorite places was a no-brainer.” Avery credits Cornerstone for shaping her work ethic, challenging her spiritually, and preparing her for life in ways she didn’t even realize at the time. “Returning in this new role feels like a full-circle moment.”
Over the past few years, Avery has built an impressive portfolio, serving as Media Lead at WinShape Camps for four consecutive summers. There, she directed media teams and helped capture the joy and energy of camp life, an experience that sharpened both her creative and leadership skills. 
What excites her most about being back at Cornerstone is the opportunity to live out the school’s mission from a different angle. “I see this role as a way to give back to a place that poured so much into me,” she explained. “Being able to use my gifts to serve a community that helped shape who I am is incredibly meaningful.”

Though she describes the shift from student to staff as “surreal,” Avery sees it as a benefit rather than a barrier. “Having recently been a student myself helps me connect further with the students and better understand the moments worth capturing.”

Her ultimate goal? To foster a sense of purpose and identity in creative expression. “Whether I’m helping with a yearbook layout, leading the new yearbook student life club, capturing a performance, or teaching a new skill, I want students to feel seen, supported, and inspired to create with purpose,” she said. “My hope is to encourage them to pursue excellence in their craft while using their gifts to reflect Christ.”

Investing in the Next Generation

John Caden and Avery may be new staff members, but their hearts for Cornerstone and its students are anything but new. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the lasting impact a Christian education can have, and how that investment often bears fruit in unexpected and beautiful ways.

As they step into their new roles, they aren’t just giving back, they’re showing the next generation what it looks like to serve, lead, and create with passion and purpose. Be sure to say hello when you see them around campus!  

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Ready to make your mark this year?

Join us at the Student Life Club Activity Fair on August 11 to find your perfect fit! 

From worship to yearbook, there’s a place for YOU. Click here to see all of our offerings.  

• Avery is launching our new Yearbook Club
• John Caden is helping lead Heartbeat Worship Nights—next one is September 11!

Don't sit on the sidelines—jump in and be part of what God is doing at Cornerstone!