Adventist Education Leadership: Conversations About the Past, Present, and Future
Part 2
With the theme Founded in Faith, Forward in Mission, Andrews University celebrated its 150th anniversary as the first chartered institution of higher education in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Out of this rich history, the School of Leadership continues the legacy of nurturing educational leaders with the Adventist imperative in their minds and hearts. Articles in Part 2 celebrate this tradition.
Religious and Secular Influences on the Development of the Philosophy of Adventist Higher Education
The historical context of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s philosophy of higher education is closely tied to ideological shifts during the 19th century. However, current discussions on this topic generally fail to address the significant influence public higher education played in establishing a uniquely Adventist model. By re-examining the context surrounding the creation of Adventist higher education, we better understand the reasons for its existence.
Global Expansion of Adventist Education:
Philosophical Foundations, Challenges, and Future Directions
The story of Seventh-day Adventist education began with scattered, unofficial one-room schools. Since then, Adventist education has expanded along with the Church's mission and work in evangelism, health, and publishing. This reflects the commitment to providing individuals with academic knowledge, values, and principles aligned with Adventistism.
Effective Financial Leadership for Seventh-day Adventist Schools:
Key Principles and Strategies for Sustainability and Success
Financial sustainability for private educational institutions is a challenge throughout the world. Seventh-day Adventist schools are not spared from these issues. This article explores the fundamental principles and strategies of effective financial leadership that enable Seventh-day Adventist schools and tertiary institutions to achieve financial sustainability and thrive.
“Springs of Blessing”
Toward the end of the book Education, the work of Christian teachers and parents is described as “springs of blessing.” These words evoke imagery of refreshing, nurturing environments that nourish and build up the hearts and minds of learners. We need more of these “springs of blessing”-type teachers. Why are there not enough of them?
Creating Collective Impact Beyond the Classroom Through the Social Change Model
In every classroom, there is a leader: the teacher. What does it mean to be a Christian leader in the classroom? Throughout Jesus’ ministry, He demonstrated a genuine servanthood approach toward humanity. For the Christian educator and educational administrator, ministry begins with who—the God who loves us and those whom God asks us to love.
Talent Education and the Quest for Excellence:
A Music Educator Shares Her Story
Deliberate practice is vital to excelling. Most would not consider it fun, and it is certainly not easy. For a musician, it can mean tedious work practicing scales and arpeggios. In this best practices article, a violinist and music educator shares her story of building on talent and striving toward excellence.
The After School Project:
A Strategic Tool for Advancing Christian Education
With shifting demographic trends and unprecedented challenges, consideration must be given to how Adventist education can be expanded in multiple ways through alternative institutional models. The article explores how local churches can lead in collaborating with schools and setting the foundation for reinvesting in Adventist education and reversing negative trends.
Leadership in Adventist Higher Education Series:
A Conversation With Edwin I. Hernández, PhD
Edwin I. Hernández, PhD, reflects on what it means to be an educational leader in Adventist higher education. Dr. Hernández is President of Antillean Adventist University (July 2024-Present) and formerly served as President of AdventHealth University (2017-2023).
Leadership in Adventist Higher Education Series:
A Conversation With Calvin B. Rock, PhD, DMin
Calvin B. Rock served as President of Oakwood College from 1971 until 1985. After that, he was elected to serve as a general vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, a position from which he retired in 2002. As a retired pastor, educational leader, board member, and church administrator, he shares insightful perspectives on leadership in Adventist higher education.
Leadership in Adventist Higher Education Series:
A Conversation With Richard Osborn, PhD
Richard Osborn, PhD, is a retired educator and educational administrator with extensive experience in faith-based and secular educational agencies. In this interview, he reflects on principles of leadership that guided his tenure and shares insights on the future of Adventist higher education.
