Story by Cheryl Harris Kisunzu
“With gratitude I acknowledge the tender care of my heavenly Father and thank Him for the blessings that He has bestowed upon me …” “
As I look at the situation and the prospects here, I am filled with hope and courage” (Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 19).
Editorial by Monica Wringer
In every classroom, God is at work—shaping lives in ways that reach far beyond what we can see. During a recent visit to one of our elementary schools, a first-grade student approached me with a big question: “What is your name, and what do you do?”
I explained that I serve as the superintendent of education and briefly described my role. She paused, smiled and said, “I want to be a superintendent too.”
Story by V. Michelle Bernard
This week, 25 Columbia Union Conference elementary and four secondary teachers (including Elandya Howell from Sharon Temple Adventist School in North Wilmington, Del., pictured) gathered for an Encounter Bible curriculum training at Chesapeake Conference’s Spencerville Adventist Academy in Spencerville, Md.
Story by V. Michelle Bernard
Monica Esperante has recently joined the Columbia Union Conference staff as an assistant treasurer, where she will oversee day-to-day accounting functions, prepare financial reports and support the payroll processes, among other tasks.
"Monica is an excellent CPA (Certified Public Accountant) with a deep heart for mission and is committed to the Seventh-day Adventist Church,” says Emmanuel Asiedu, Columbia Union treasurer. “With her skill set and welcoming attitude, the union treasury is well-positioned to continue to be a resource to the field."
Story by Addriene Rhodes
The Pine Forge Academy (PFA) Class of 2026 is a shining example of excellence, determination and talent. This remarkable group of 35 students has earned more than $900,000 in scholarships, proving that hard work, dedication and faith can open doors to endless opportunities. Their accomplishments reflect not only academic success, but also the strength of character and creativity that define this extraordinary class.
Story by Angela Peach
During last school year’s spring semester, the Spring Valley Academy (SVA) high school band had an opportunity few musicians ever get: performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Story by Elisa Maragoto, Superintendent of Schools
“True education,” as defined by Ellen White, encompasses the whole being, guiding students through the harmonious growth of one’s physical, mental and spiritual powers. With this philosophy at the core of its mission, New Jersey Conference (NJC) educators recognize they often serve as first responders to students facing a wide range of challenges.
Story by Helen Herñandez
In recognition of the Allegheny West Conference Youth Mental Health year, more than 150 club directors, youth leaders and Master Guide candidates were recently certified as National Mental Health First Aiders during the Youth Leadership Conference (YLC) 2026 at Camp Chautauqua in Miamisburg, Ohio.
Story by Debra C. Anderson
A spirit of unity and purpose recently swept across the Potomac Conference as the Hispanic Caravan of Evangelism resulted in 195 baptisms. Each baptism marked more than a number but a personal decision to follow Jesus.
Throughout the week, churches across the conference in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C., hosted simultaneous evangelistic meetings, as pastors from Honduras joined local congregations to share a message of hope centered on the theme, “Restored by Grace.”
