The Iowa-Missouri Conference Education Department hosted its 2025 Music Festival at Sunnydale Adventist Academy last April. The event brought together approximately 98 elementary students from nine Adventist schools across Iowa and Missouri, along with 13 homeschool/public school students and 66 academy students.
The festival featured Mr. Joseph E. Choi directing the choir and Ramón Araújo leading the band. The weekend program included Friday evening vespers, Sabbath school, a worship service featuring festival participants, and concluded with a special concert on Sabbath afternoon in the academy gymnasium.
During the program, three teachers received service pins for their years of service: Heidi Nicholas (10 years), Karli Kuehmichel (15 years), and Pennie Wredberg (30 years). Student artwork winners Alyssa Sanchez, Gael Nelson and Judy Hoyt were also recognized for their designs featured on T-shirts and the program cover.
Special recognition was given to Karen McCarthy, education administrative assistant, for her many years of service in the Education Department. Melissa Morris, education superintendent, was also recognized for her significant contributions in the Education Department as she transitions to the executive secretary position.
The festival showcased musical selections including “Genesis” and “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by the band, while the choir performed “Because He Lives” and “Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone).” The event concluded with a combined performance of “My Jesus I Love Thee,” arranged by Ramón Araújo, demonstrating the students’ musical talents developed “to the glory of God.”
